North American Ag Spotlight: Agriculture & Farming News and Views

North American Ag, Chrissy Wozniak

North American Ag provides daily agriculture news and weekly podcasts, devoted to highlighting the great people and companies that serve the agriculture industry and help feed our world. Covering ag tech, ag issues, policy, new products, family & faith. North American Ag gives farm families and ag professionals insight into what’s happening in agriculture throughout North America. In agriculture, government policy and faith effect farming every day. Unfortunately without open discussion, ideas, experiences and different viewpoints can't be shared and figured out together. At North American Ag we talk about politics and religion, in relation to farm topics. We share ideas and we discuss all of the issues. An open, welcoming community is a healthy community. Whether you are a farmer ort a consumer, your life depends on ag. Join us at https://northamericanag.com read less
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Episodes

Insight into 2024 Farm Equipment Sales
6d ago
Insight into 2024 Farm Equipment Sales
In this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak talks to Curt Blades, Senior Vice President of Industry Sectors & Product Leadership at the Association of Equipment Manufacturers about trends in farm equipment sales.  In the ever-evolving landscape of agriculture, staying ahead of trends is crucial. Understanding shifts in the market, especially regarding agricultural equipment, is essential for farmers, manufacturers, and industry professionals alike. Curt Blades, with a background rooted in marketing, business development, and leadership, offers insights into these trends. Hailing from Des Moines, Iowa, Curt is deeply committed to driving innovation and progress within the industry.Blades, who comes from a farming background, is the perfect guide through the complexities of agricultural equipment sales. With a career dedicated to innovation and technology within the agricultural space, his journey reflects a deep understanding of the industry's intricacies.In this episode, Curt Blades discusses the March 2024 AG tractor combined sales report, providing valuable insights into the current market trends. He highlighted the significance of the recent increase in unit sales of 100-plus horsepower AG tractors in the US, indicating an overall optimism for the long-term value of agriculture.According to Blades, the sales of tractors above 100 horsepower, often used as true row crop tractors, saw a notable increase, pointing towards farmers' confidence in the future of agriculture. This optimism is in stark contrast to the softness observed in other segments of the market, such as small tractors, shore tractors, and compact utilities.Blades emphasized the importance of understanding historical sales data to recognize clear trends, for example how tractor sales often correlate with corn prices, offering valuable insights into market behavior. Moreover, he shed light on the contrast between US and Canadian sales figures, showing similar trends in both markets.Despite potential challenges like global economic instability, Blades remains optimistic about the long-term stability of the agriculture industry. He believes that the future of agriculture lies in innovation and sustainability, with farmers playing a crucial role in embracing these changes.Looking ahead, Blades discussed strategies for manufacturers to capitalize on growing demands. He emphasized the need for manufacturers to manage their supply chains effectively, ensuring resilience and efficiency. He also highlighted the role of technology and innovation in driving operational efficiencies for farmers.As the agricultural industry continues to evolve, insights from experts like Curt Blades provide valuable guidance for navigating market trends and making informed decisions. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, the future of agriculture looks promising, driven by advancements in technology and a commitment to progress.To learn more about Curt Blades and his work, visit the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) website at https://AEM.org #farmequipment #farming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comThis episode is sponsored by INTENT - Collect and interpret geospatial agronomic data with speed, precision, and scale. Learn more at https://intent.agWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comThe ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
Defending the Constitutional Rights of the American Farmer
May 1 2024
Defending the Constitutional Rights of the American Farmer
In this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak  delves into the critical role of protecting the constitutional and private property rights of law-abiding animal owners and animal-related businesses. Our guest, Mindy Patterson, President and Co-Founder of The Cavalry Group LLC., is a passionate advocate fighting to safeguard these rights against radical animal rights agendas.Introduction to The Cavalry Group:Animal owners and animal-related businesses are facing increasing attacks from those seeking to eliminate animal ownership and enterprise in America. The Cavalry Group, founded in 2012, stands as a bulwark against these threats, offering advocacy and legal defense to protect constitutional and private property rights. The group provides 24/7 access to legal defense for law-abiding animal owners, businesses, outdoor sportsmen, and agricultural interests.Dedicated to safeguarding constitutional and private property rights of animal owners and businesses nationwide, The Cavalry Group provides legal defense against unwarranted search and seizure of farms and animal enterprises. The organization also advocates against animal rights-driven legislative actions at both federal and state levels. Furthermore, they fight against government agencies implementing rules and regulations inconsistent with the law.Listen in as we explore the challenges faced by animal owners and businesses, and the essential work done by The Cavalry Group to defend their rights and interests.Learn more about Cavalry Group LLC at https://www.thecavalrygroup.com/Learn more about American Agri-Women's Annual Fly-In at https://americanagriwomen.org#propertyrights #farming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comThis episode is sponsored by INTENT - Collect and interpret geospatial agronomic data with speed, precision, and scale. Learn more at https://intent.agWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!The ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
BeSure This Growing Season!
Apr 24 2024
BeSure This Growing Season!
In this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak  delves into the vital role of crop protection products in agriculture and horticulture. Our guests, Dr. Frank Wong, Ph.D., and Nick Tinsley, discuss the importance of responsible and effective crop protection practices.We explore how products like neonicotinoid insecticides are essential for protecting crops from pests while ensuring safety for people and the environment when used responsibly. Discover practical stewardship practices and learn how the BeSure! campaign promotes the safe and responsible use of crop protection products.Tune in to learn more about the collaborative efforts of Growing Matters, Bayer Crop Science, BASF, and others to support growers and applicators in protecting pollinators and wildlife while maintaining agricultural productivity.Learn more about the BeSure! campaign and Growing Matters at https://growingmatters.org#farm #farming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comThis episode is sponsored by INTENT - Collect and interpret geospatial agronomic data with speed, precision, and scale. Learn more at https://intent.agWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!The ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
INTENT on Advancing Technology-Driven Innovation in Ag
Apr 10 2024
INTENT on Advancing Technology-Driven Innovation in Ag
In this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak sits down with Randy Barker, CEO of INTENT, an agricultural company dedicated to leveraging technology to drive innovation in farming practices. With over 25 years of experience in launching agricultural technologies across 30 countries, Randy shares insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. From addressing variability in farms to accelerating the adoption of digital solutions, INTENT is at the forefront of revolutionizing agriculture. Join us as Randy discusses the role of data science, and the future of farming in this captivating conversation.Key Points Discussed:Randy Barker's vast global experience in launching agricultural technologies.The mission of INTENT to revolutionize agriculture through advanced technology.Addressing challenges such as variability across farms and regions.Leveraging data science and digital technologies to empower farmers and businesses.Success stories and case studies demonstrating the impact of INTENT's solutions.The role of sustainability and innovation in shaping the future of agriculture.Emerging trends and opportunities in the agricultural technology space.Randy's insights into the future of farming and INTENT's role in driving industry advancements.Tune in to gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of agriculture and the transformative potential of technology in farming practices.Learn more about INTENT at https://intent.ag/#agtech #farming #agriculture***North American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!The ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
Is Agriculture Really Under Attack?
Apr 3 2024
Is Agriculture Really Under Attack?
In this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak visits with Impact Farming Podcast host Tracy Brunet. Tracy is a top Canadian ag media personality, podcast host, award-winning speaker and CEO of Farm Marketer and Cottage Marketer. She is passionate, disciplined, driven and deeply passionate about empowering people to succeed. Whether this is motivating individuals to live their best life or helping business owners - farmers and clients navigate the often overwhelming business world. Tracy and Chrissy discuss her podcast, which she’s recently rebranded, and Tracy highlights what she’s learned over the last three months since she decided to shift gears. She's recently welcomed guests onto her show who are shedding light on some critical issues impacting agriculture, Tracy talks about these issues and gives her opinion on where we're at today. Impact Farming is a podcast dedicated to helping Canadian farmers excel in the business of farming. Our goal at Impact Farming is to introduce our audience, Canadian Farmers, to the people and ideas that are going to make an impact on their farm business. Host Tracy Brunet chats with today’s most successful farm advisors and industry leaders to bring our audience the best and most important ideas. This show is designed to bring Canadian farmers impactful farm business information that can be consumed on the go.Learn more about The Impact Farming Show at https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/impact-farming/id1409740089?ls=1#farm #farming #agriculture***North American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!The ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
Cybersecurity and Agriculture: Is Your Farm at Risk?
Mar 28 2024
Cybersecurity and Agriculture: Is Your Farm at Risk?
In this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak speaks with James Harper, Chief Executive Officer at Quatronics, about cybersecurity threats faced by the agricultural industry.James Harper is an information security expert with over 25 years of experience in the defense industry and entrepreneurship. He currently serves as the CEO of Quatronics, a company specializing in cybersecurity compliance and governance, helping organizations achieve and maintain compliance with frameworks like ISO 27001, NIST, and HIPAA.James' passion lies in demystifying complex cybersecurity concepts and empowering individuals to protect themselves and their organizations. He is a captivating speaker, drawing upon his extensive experience to deliver insightful presentations on various cybersecurity topics.  He has a particular interest in the agriculture, coming from multiple generations of family farm owners.At Quatronics, they are more than just a cybersecurity consulting firm; they are a dedicated ally in safeguarding digital assets and ensuring a resilient and secure business environment. Based in Dallas and founded in 2020, they offer a wide range of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses across the United States. Their focus spans across industries including agriculture, the financial sector, government contractors, and small to medium-sized businesses.Their services include Cybersecurity Vulnerability and Risk Assessments, taking a proactive approach to identify potential risks and vulnerabilities that pose a threat to businesses. They also provide Compliance Services, assisting companies in achieving government and industry compliance certification to ensure operations align with required standards.In addition, Quatronics specializes in Disaster Recovery, ensuring business continuity in challenging times and helping businesses return to normal operations as quickly as possible. They offer innovative solutions like Cue Farm Software for Agriculture, tailored to the unique needs of the agriculture industry.Their expertise extends to Custom Software Development and Integration, crafting secure and user-friendly software solutions. They excel in Advanced Data Analytics, helping businesses harness the power of data for informed decision-making.Furthermore, Quatronics offers Voice over IP (VoIP) Phone Systems, facilitating seamless communication integrated into CRM and other business management tools. With experience in developing IoT devices, wireless communication systems, and other custom electronic devices, they provide end-to-end solutions from concept through certification to UL standards and manufacturing.Learn more about Quatronics at https://www.quatronics.com or https://cue.farm#farm #farming #cybersecurityNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!The ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
Uniting Women in Ag Across the Country
Mar 14 2024
Uniting Women in Ag Across the Country
Listen to the podcast here - https://www.northamericanag.com/north-american-ag-spotlightIn this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak sits down with American Agri-Women President Rose Tryon to talk about goals for her presidential term and about exciting news regarding the 2024 AAW Fly-In to Washington DC! She shares news of the American Agri-Women Road to Influence Leadership Program who has been busy coordinating an expanded version of the traditional annual Fly-In. For the first time ever it is being opened up to all women involved in ag and natural resources, in a massive effort to unite as one voice in the nation's capital. For more information about the 2024 Fly-In visit - https://www.americanagriwomen.org/events-4/legislative-fly-in.Rose Tryon grew up on a beef, dairy & potato ranch. She is a fifth-generation farmer on her father's side of the family and a third-generation Portuguese immigrant and farmer on her mother's side. Rose and her husband, Michael VanCott, are actively involved in operating her family farm in Del Norte County, California.Rose is a retired District Attorney investigator who specialized in child abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence investigations. She is also a full-charge bookkeeper specializing in agricultural accounting. Rose served as the 25th State President of California Women for Agriculture (CWA). In addition, she served in multiple capacities at the affiliate's state and local levels. Rose has been active in American Agri-Women (AAW) since 2011. She served six years on the American-Agri Women Foundation Board of Directors. In addition, she served several years as the AAW Natural Resources Co-Director. Rose is a 2022 recipient of the AAW LEAVEN award.In 2018, Rose and her husband, Michael, lost their home in the devastating forest fire that destroyed the town of Paradise, California. They have rebuilt their home in Paradise. In November 2020, Rose was elected to the Paradise Town Council. She currently represents the town of Paradise on the Butte County Air Quality Management District Governing Board and the Butte County Association of Governments. Rose also serves on the Butte County Farm Board of Directors and is a Farm Journal Foundation Farmer Ambassador for Northern California.Rose has a unique background and work experience in farming and law enforcement. She enjoys collaborating with people from diverse social and economic backgrounds and has been a longtime advocate for the health of rural communities.American Agri-Women is the nation’s largest coalition of farm, ranch, and agribusiness women with more than 20 affiliates and members in 42 states, united to communicate with one another and with other consumers to promote agriculture. AAW members... advocating for agriculture since 1974.Learn more about American Agri-Women at https://americanagriwomen.org#farm #farming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!The ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
Building Resilient Food Supply Through Decentralization
Mar 6 2024
Building Resilient Food Supply Through Decentralization
In this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak visits with Rob Amuzzini, CEO & Co-Founder of NetGreen.com about his crowdfunding platform, and the potential benefits of decentralization in the industry.Rob is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in corporate and strategic finance spanning multiple industries, including Technology and Agriculture. Renowned for his adeptness at fostering collaboration and innovation, he possesses a remarkable ability to bring together individuals and ideas to tackle intricate challenges and unearth fresh opportunities. At the helm of NetGreen.com, a FINRA registered funding portal, he leads efforts dedicated to supporting and nurturing businesses within the agriculture sector.In today's discussion, we will explore alternative avenues for funding small agricultural businesses and delve into strategies for public investment in agriculture. Additionally, we will delve into the concept of decentralizing the food supply chain, a topic of increasing importance in our ever-evolving world.NetGreen Capital is the premier crowdfunding and impact investing platform for farms and agribusinesses nationwide. Our revenue-based notes allow farmers and business owners the opportunity to raise the funds they need without collateral, without giving up equity in their business, and with comparable industry interest rates. Learn more at https://www.netgreen.com/.NetGreen.com serves as a facilitator in the investment process, bridging the gap between businesses and investors. Businesses utilize the platform to issue investment offerings on its Marketplace, while investors explore the Marketplace in search of investment prospects. The platform facilitates the exchange of investment agreements and funds, ensuring a seamless transaction process. Additionally, NetGreen.com manages investment repayments and distributions from the issuing businesses back to the investors. Positioned as a digital investment platform for private company investments, it offers an alternative to publicly traded stocks. Ultimately, NetGreen.com empowers farms and businesses by providing them direct access to funding from the communities they serve.Learn more at https://NetGreen.com. Follow on Instagram @netgreencapital, and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553732545129#farminvesting #farming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!The ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
Economic Forces Shaping the Future of US Agribusiness
Feb 21 2024
Economic Forces Shaping the Future of US Agribusiness
Listen to the podcast here - https://www.northamericanag.com/north-american-ag-spotlightIn this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak talks with David Magaña, Senior Analyst – Horticulture at RaboResearch/Rabobank. In his role, David is tasked with analyzing the fresh fruit and vegetable industries in the United States and North America. With a rich background in agriculture, David brings extensive experience to his current position. Prior to joining Rabobank, he served as the deputy director of economic research for FIRA – Banco de México, where he conducted in-depth analyses of the agricultural sector for over a decade. David's expertise encompasses various aspects of the agricultural landscape, including ag market integration, consumer trends in fresh produce markets, food security, and food price dynamics. Additionally, he has shared his knowledge and insights as a professor at Tecnológico de Monterrey.David holds a bachelor's degree, along with a master's degree and a PhD in agricultural economics, all earned from Texas A&M University. His academic background coupled with his practical experience uniquely position him to offer valuable insights into the intersection of agriculture and finance.Recently, David delivered a compelling presentation at the Association of Agriculture Consultants Conference in Fresno, California, where he provided a comprehensive report on the economy and the state of the industry. Today, we have the pleasure of delving deeper into the current challenges facing producers, particularly in the realm of vegetable and specialty crops, and exploring how these issues reverberate throughout the broader economy.David Magaña is the Senior Analyst in Horticulture at Rabobank/RaboResearch, specializing in the analysis of the US and North American fresh fruit and vegetable industries. With a distinguished career in agriculture, David's journey began as the deputy director of economic research for FIRA – Banco de México, where he dedicated over a decade to conducting thorough analyses of the agricultural sector. His expertise extends across multiple domains, including ag market integration, consumer behavior in fresh produce markets, food security, and food price dynamics.In addition to his professional roles, David has contributed to academia as a professor at Tecnológico de Monterrey, where he shared his knowledge and passion for agricultural economics with students. He holds a bachelor's degree, as well as master's and doctoral degrees in agricultural economics, all earned from Texas A&M University.David's recent presentation at the Association of Agriculture Consultants Conference in Fresno, California, showcased his ability to provide insightful analyses of the economy and industry trends. Today, David joins us to discuss pressing issues facing producers, particularly in vegetable and specialty crops, and to explore their broader implications for the economy. We are honored to welcome David Magaña to our interview, and we eagerly anticipate the valuable insights he will share with us today.Learn more about RaboResearch visit - https://research.rabobank.com/far/en/home/index.html#economics #agribusiness #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comThis episode is sponsored by Fastline - A LEADER IN FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALEVisit https://agr.fyi/fastlineWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at htThe ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
Could Bamboo be a Viable Crop for Citrus Growers in Florida?
Feb 14 2024
Could Bamboo be a Viable Crop for Citrus Growers in Florida?
In this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak talks with Kevin Barley, President of The Florida Bamboo Growers Association. We dive into the lesser-known but deeply rooted agricultural landscape of Florida with a focus on the citrus industry and the emerging bamboo market. Our guest today has a heritage deeply embedded in the Florida citrus industry, tracing back to 1900 when his great grandfather planted their first citrus grove. From a stint on the NYC trading floor during college to leading his father's commodity trading business, he's now at the forefront of the bamboo farming industry as the President of Greenfield Bamboo Investments. Join us as we explore the rich history, opportunities, and challenges of Florida agriculture with Kevin Barley. Tune in for an insightful conversation you won't want to miss!Learn more about The Florida Bamboo Growers Association at https://fbgabamboo.com/Learn more about Greenfield Bamboo Investments at https://www.greenfieldbamboo.net/#bamboo #bamboofarming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comThis episode is sponsored by Fastline - A LEADER IN FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALEVisit https://agr.fyi/fastlineWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!The ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
Strengthening Ties: Opportunities for the US Agricultural Sector in Africa
Feb 7 2024
Strengthening Ties: Opportunities for the US Agricultural Sector in Africa
In this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak visits with Gary Hirsch, Founder and President of Global Opportunities. Gary shares his insight into how increasing and strengthening our ties with Africa could be an excellent strategy on many levels.Global Opportunities was founded in order to deepen the economic ties between the people of Africa and the people of the United States and is committed to identifying those opportunities where by working together, jobs and economic growth can be created on both sides while also strengthening the "personal bonds" between Africa's people and the people of the United States. For too long America's adversaries have taken advantage of the United States being economically focused elsewhere and it is time to change this through the building of new partnerships between American and African businesses.Gary Hirsch is the founder and President of Global Opportunities Inc., a United States based company dedicated to increasing trade and economic ties between  U.S. and developing countries, primarily in the Middle East/North Africa region as well as those in Sub Saharan Africa. Mr. Hirsch developed the concept for Global Opportunities based on his concern that in a globally competitive world, increasing  interaction between United States companies and developing economies will not only result in opening up new markets for American products but can also help to provide tremendous opportunities for citizens of the developing world in terms of increasing access to the American market and providing new training opportunities helping to lift local standards of living and address high rates of developing world unemployment. Mr. Hirsch has an extensive background in political and governmental affairs. With over 30 years of experience in the operation and management of Municipal and County political campaigns, Mr. Hirsch is recognized as one of the leading municipal campaign consultants serving the Central New Jersey region. Having participated in and/or managed numerous successful political campaigns, he has been responsible for all facets of campaign operations including but not limited to message development, fundraising,  volunteer recruitment, voter identification and targeting ,  opposition research, budgeting, grass roots support building,  and the development and implementation of all Get Out the Vote efforts leading up to and including Election Day for both  local and County candidates  and  in coordination  at the Municipal Level , with campaigns at other levels of government including State Legislature, Governor, Congress and U.S. President. In addition to this experience, Mr. Hirsch also served in the campaign of President Bill Clinton as Regional Field Coordinator in the early primary states of New Hampshire and Maine  in parts of Northern New Hampshire and West Central Maine.Learn more about Global Opportunities at https://www.globalopportunities.net#farm #farming #agricultureThis episode is sponsored by Fastline - A LEADER IN FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALEVisit https://agr.fyi/fastlineThe ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
Pay Attention to California Ag: the Crazy Always Moves East
Jan 31 2024
Pay Attention to California Ag: the Crazy Always Moves East
In this week's North American Ag Spotlight, Chrissy Wozniak talks to Ryan Jacobsen, CEO of the Fresno County Farm Bureau, about the regulations affecting California and how these regulations tend to move east. Farmers across the nation should pay attention to what could soon end up on their doorstep, Ryan explains why. Ryan also talks about the incredible ag industry in California, and especially in his home county of Fresno. Ryan Jacobsen brings a deep-rooted connection to Farm Bureau and a profound understanding of agriculture as the fourth generation of two esteemed Fresno County farm families. With a notable history within the organization, Jacobsen previously held roles as FCFB's governmental affairs coordinator and membership coordinator, beginning his service in 2004. A graduate of California State University, Fresno, he holds a master's degree in business administration and a bachelor's degree in animal science. Jacobsen's academic achievements include serving two terms as associated student body president at Fresno State and receiving recognition as the College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Dean's Medalist and Craig School of Business Graduate Dean's Medalist. Currently, he is extensively involved, serving as the president of the Fresno Irrigation District Board of Directors, vice chair of the Kings River Water Association, chair of Fresno County's Agricultural Lands Conservation Committee, and contributing to the boards of California Farmland Trust and the Rotary Club of Fresno Foundation.Follow Ryan Jacobsen on LinkedIn here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanjacobsen/Learn more about Fresno County Farm Bureau at - https://www.fcfb.org/#farm #farming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comThis episode is sponsored by Fastline - A LEADER IN FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALEVisit https://agr.fyi/fastlineWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!The ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
Insight, Cautions & Hope for 2024
Jan 24 2024
Insight, Cautions & Hope for 2024
Listen to the podcast here - https://www.northamericanag.com/north-american-ag-spotlightIn this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak sits down with American Agri-Women Past President Heather Hampton+Knodle to discuss what to expect this year in terms of the election, policy and how to manage the constant barrage of incoming information. American Agri-Women is a grass roots organization of women from farms, ranches and agri-business forming a nationwide coalition of state and commodity affiliates and at-large members with a mission to provide networking and leadership development opportunities as we educate each other and the public about issues impacting our ability to feed, fuel and clothe our country and others around the world.Heather Hampton+Knodle grew up working on her family’s farm near Windsor, Illinois and continues to farm with her husband Brian and their four children in Montgomery County where they grow corn, soybeans, winter wheat and black Angus cattle. Their use of technology informs their efforts to apply regenerative practices across their farm and capture data to improve management. Heather earned her bachelors in agriculture news/editorial with emphasis in geography and economics and the equivalent of a minor in Russian language and area studies from the Univ. of Illinois, including an academic year at the University of Nottingham, England and exchange with St. Petersburg Agricultural Institute in Russia. Her masters work in post-socialist privatization was at University of Illinois Springfield as she launched her communication consulting business that quickly evolved into association management. Heather has served as Executive Director for the Upper Mississippi, Illinois and Missouri Rivers Association and statewide organizations in Illinois as well as the volunteer Past President of Illinois Agri-Women. She was the founding chairman of the public-private Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation and the $250 million, 11-county bond authority Central Illinois Economic Development Authority. In her time as an elected official on the Montgomery County Board, she helped leverage $6000 in coal royalty funds into a more than $15 million privately-funded fiberoptic to the premises buildout.She has been appointed by four governors to serve on the Illinois Governor’s Rural Affairs Council and was reappointed in 2021 by the Federal Communications Commission to serve on the Precision Agriculture Task Force and chair the Examining Current and Future Connectivity Demand Working Group. Heather also serves as Farm Journal Foundation’s Lead Farmer for Illinois to advocate for agricultural research investments and training for smallholder farmers in developing countries. Learn more about American Agri-Women at https://americanagriwomen.org.Read the NY ruling mentioned in the discussion here - https://regs.health.ny.gov/sites/default/files/proposed-regulations/Investigation%20of%20Communicable%20Disease%3B%20Isolation%20and%20Quarantine.pdf?fbclid=IwAR3Z-HBjs_0qyCJPgx9FjxQdhPMs5_xDtOOTRnEsjO7ksecn4GC8qUA3uXg#agwomenunite #farm #farming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comThis episode is sponsored by Fastline - A LEADER IN FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALEVisit https://agr.fyi/fastlineWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!The ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
Fastline President shares insight into big iron trends for 2024
Jan 17 2024
Fastline President shares insight into big iron trends for 2024
In this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak hears from Dean Barke, President of Fastline. Dean shares his insight into big iron trends for 2024. With more than 40 years of experience, Fastline's commitment to the agricultural industry, it's customers, and farmers is unparalleled. With Fastline Print, Fastline.com, and Fastline Digital, they offer integrated marketing solutions for the evolving agricultural community. Simply put, no one else has their combination of audience and wide array of marketing tools. Fastline Auctions is the only auction platform with over 40 years of data to target more farmers than any other. They make it simple for their customers – auctions are embedded directly into Fastline.com’s current website listings, so there’s no need for buyers to visit a separate website. Fastline Auctions are heavily promoted through their robust digital marketing campaigns as well as Fastline’s print catalog.Learn more about Fastline at https://fastline.com#farm #farming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comThis episode is sponsored by Fastline - A LEADER IN FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALE Visit https://agr.fyi/fastlineWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!The ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
Navigating Your Career in Agriculture
Jan 10 2024
Navigating Your Career in Agriculture
Listen to the podcast here - https://www.northamericanag.com/north-american-ag-spotlight - Navigating Your Career in AgricultureIn this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak talks to Dustin Toberman about how to navigate your career, whether you're just starting out, or changing lanes mid-career. Dustin shares his story of starting out as a barge deckhand on the Mississippi, and the lessons he learned as he climbed the ladder. He shares what led him to start his company, OMNI Ag, and his podcast "Boot Pit to Boardroom".Being raised around a family-operated grain business gave him the opportunity to witness how important good people can be to an organization. His father and grandfather showed him that without the right people who are true to your company’s values, your business will die. Early on, he recognized the need for leaders to support and champion their people. He took that philosophy with him throughout his career outside the family business in the agriculture industry.Dustin's first job in the industry was as a barge deckhand on the Mississippi. The work was physically demanding and dangerous but it allowed him to see the world from the perspective of those at the foundation of a company. On a daily basis, he was reminded that the company could not succeed without their buy-in and hard work. As his career advanced he was awarded more responsibility and the opportunity to lead people, starting out in operations and eventually in the corporate office leading an entire district. Dustin's travels took him to new locations meeting new challenges with a diverse array of teams. No matter where he went, he took with him the lessons learned on the barges and in the bins of his family’s grain business.In Dustin's 20+ years in the industry, he's learned that no matter what business he's worked with, the key to success was always the same: Having the right people on your team is the difference between winning and losing. Many of those he's worked with have gone on to find success leading their own teams. Although different in many ways, all of those people carried with them certain winning traits.OMNI Ag is in the business of building futures, with career placement services focused on lasting success for talent and businesses alike. With proven methods for talent acquisition and retention, they partner with businesses to define and strengthen company culture. Learn more about OMINI Ag at https://omni-ag.com/#farm #farming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comThis episode is sponsored by Fastline - A LEADER IN FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALE. Visit https://agr.fyi/fastlineWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comNeed help with your agriculture based company's marketing plan? https://www.northamericanag.com/full-service-agri-marketingDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!The ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
SPECIAL: The Rural Sales Show - Automating Your Rural Marketing with Chrissy Wozniak
Jan 4 2024
SPECIAL: The Rural Sales Show - Automating Your Rural Marketing with Chrissy Wozniak
In this week's North American Ag Spotlight we share an episode of the Rural Sales Show, hosted by St. John Craner of Agrarian, based in New Zealand. St. John invited Chrissy on the show to discuss marketing automation, and how it can be leveraged in agriculture based companies. They also discuss how important it is to have a strategic plan when exhibiting at farm shows. so you're actually generating customers not just spending money.St John has over 25 years of corporate sales and marketing agency experience in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand working for the likes of McCann Erickson, Young & Rubicam and Westpac. He comes from a farming family in the UK and is a Lincoln University Kellogg scholar.His current focus is in sales coaching, helping rural companies and agribusinesses bridge the gap between sales and marketing with an emphasis on supporting the buyer’s buying process (learning to speak the buyer’s language) vs traditional, self-serving selling. Though he has mastered the rural sales space, St John’s expertise in teaching sales teams world-wide how human-centered psychology changes the selling process is universally applicable. St John has advised leading agribusiness companies such as John Deere, Vodafone, Bayer, DeLaval, DLF Seeds, Gallagher and World Wide Sires.Agrarian is New Zealand’s most trusted rural sales and marketing training company, dedicated exclusively to the business of agribusiness. Agrarians help agribusiness grow using digital strategies, marketing campaigns, sales training, and farmer panel research. This positions them better in their marketplace to uphold margin and sell more products for more revenue to more customers more of the time.Learn more at - https://www.agrarian.co.nzFree How To Succeed In Rural Sales ebook - www.ruralsalessuccess.comRural Sales Training Calculator - https://www.agrarian.co.nz/rural-sales-training-calculatorSt. John Craner - www.linkedin.com/in/stjohncraner#agribusiness #ruralsales #agriculture***North American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comThis episode is sponsored by Fastline - A LEADER IN FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALEVisit https://agr.fyi/fastlineWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!The ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
SPECIAL: Things Growers Want to Know Before Deciding to Purchase an AgTech Automation Solution
Dec 27 2023
SPECIAL: Things Growers Want to Know Before Deciding to Purchase an AgTech Automation Solution
🌟 This week we recap the insightful panel discussion on agricultural technology: "Things Growers Want to Know Before Deciding to Purchase an AgTech Automation Solution" at the FIRA USA Conference in September 2023.After evaluating multiple solutions, the grower is ready to move towards a purchase decision. What happens now? Usually there's a field trial where baseline is captured and change measured to confirm it delivers as expected. The details of the purchase are worked through - will it be a direct sale or a channel sale through a partner, and will it be an equipment purchase, a lease, or an as-a-service subscription style purchase? Who is going to support the product and what functionality exists now and what will be added later and when? What kind of ROI expectations do large growers have (i.e. what kind of payback period are they targeting), and how do those map to other growers and smaller growers?🌱 The Journey from Evaluation to Purchase Decision:Discover the pivotal steps growers take after evaluating multiple AgTech solutions. Our panelists, including Bartley Walker and Josh Roberts, shared their experiences navigating the path to the final purchase decision.🚜 Insights into Field Trials:Get a closer look at the dynamics of field trials, where baseline data is captured and changes are measured to ensure the effectiveness of chosen AgTech solutions. The panelists provided valuable insights into making field trials impactful.💡 Intricacies of the Purchase Process:Explore the intricacies involved in the purchase process – from deciding on a direct sale or a channel sale through a partner to choosing between equipment purchase, lease, or an as-a-service subscription. Learn from the experiences of industry leaders.🛠️ Product Support and Functionality:Find out who supports the product post-purchase and gain insights into the existing functionalities. Our panelist, Josh Ruiz addressed questions about product support and future enhancements.📈 Decoding ROI Expectations:Dive into the nuanced world of ROI expectations, understanding how large growers set payback periods and how these expectations align with those of smaller growers. Gain a comprehensive understanding from our expert panel.Expert Panelists:🌾 Bartley Walker | President | Pacific Ag Rental🌾 Josh Roberts | President | Triangle Farms🌾 Josh Ruiz | Sr. Director of Ag Technology and Innovation | Duda Farm Fresh Foods🌾 With Moderator Chrissy Wozniak | Founder | North American AgRelive the thought-provoking discussion that unfolded on September 20th, offering valuable insights and empowering attendees to successfully navigate the complex landscape of AgTech adoption.Stay tuned for future events and continue your journey into the world of ag tech with insights from our expert panelists!Learn more about FIRA USA at fira-usa.com#agtech #farming #smartfarmingNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!The ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
SPECIAL: Impact Farming with Chrissy Wozniak on Ag Policy: ESG, Property Rights & The Attack on Ag
Dec 19 2023
SPECIAL: Impact Farming with Chrissy Wozniak on Ag Policy: ESG, Property Rights & The Attack on Ag
This week we feature The Impact Farming Show, where host Tracy Brunet discusses the many current attacks on agriculture with Chrissy Wozniak of North American Ag.Many farmers cannot help but notice that agriculture and our farming practices are increasingly in the spotlight with each passing day.We all see and hear the headlines.Sustainability, ESGs, property rights, water and wildlife preservation efforts, carbon concerns, fertilizer reductions, animal rights, lab-grown "meats", plant-based “meats,” and the list goes on and on.Being in the public eye, and the constant uncertainty that comes from being in the spotlight, has many farmers concerned about the future of farming.Tracy and Chrissy tackle many of these subjects in a great conversation about policy and its growing impact on agriculture. In this episode:•Chrissy shares more about her platform, her mission, and why agriculture policy has become an ever-increasing passion for her personally and professionally.•She shares more about American Agri Women, her involvement, and the work this group of amazing women is doing to represent the best interests of the agriculture industry with our elected officials.•Tracy and Chrissy chat about how there are several agriculture policies with growing momentum right now and how many of these policies are not even on the radar for most farmers. In this episode, Chrissy focuses on four policies that every farmer should know about.•Have you heard of ESGs? Many farmers have not. ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance, and Chrissy shares how this impacts our industry.•As farmers, the land is near and dear to our hearts; without it, we cannot farm. Chrissy shares more about property and water rights policies and encroachments that have been and are currently making waves in the USA and around the World.•For anyone involved in the agriculture industry, it is no surprise when Chrissy shares that there is an attack on animal agriculture. Between PETA, vegans, and other animal rights activists…animal agriculture has been in the public eye for many years. However, Chrissy goes on to share that our current threats may be coming from within the government. You will not want to miss this.•Last but not least are fertilizer restrictions. This topic made headlines a while back with the government’s declaration that farmers must reduce their fertilizer usage by 30%. While the conversation seems to have died down for now, this battle is far from over.•Chrissy shares some final parting thoughts on agriculture policy and whether or not farmers should be concerned. She also shares a few tips for farmers if they want to learn more or get involved.If you are a farmer, you don’t want to miss this episode!Impact Farming, a video and audio show dedicated to helping Canadian farmers excel in the business of farming. Our goal with this show is to introduce our audience to the people and ideas that are going to make an impact on their farm business. Host Tracy Brunet chats with today’s most successful farm advisors and industry leaders to bring our audience the best and most important ideas. This show is designed to bring Canadian farmers impactful farm business information that can be consumed on the go.Learn more about Impact Farming at https://www.farmmarketer.com/impact_farming_show/season-one-episodes#farm #farming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comWant to hear the stoThe ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com
From Fields to Frontlines: Inside the Attacks on Israeli Dairy Farms on October 7th
Dec 12 2023
From Fields to Frontlines: Inside the Attacks on Israeli Dairy Farms on October 7th
In this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak talks to Israeli Dairy Management Specialist Tsur Hadar, who has been assisting in the recovery efforts on one of the 13 dairy farms brutally attacked in the October 7th terrorist attack near the Gaza Strip. Tsur tells the story of the kibbutz owned dairy farm on that day, and how life in Israel has changed forever. He gives his insight into the attack and how he feels about the mainstream media coverage. He also explains Israel’s incredible agriculture industry. Israel is a global leader in agricultural technology, and is a testament to human ingenuity and technological innovation overcoming challenging environmental conditions in regions that were once considered unsuitable for agriculture.With a BSc. in Agriculture Science, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel, Tsur Hadar has led an incredible life immersed in agriculture. From his roots on Kibbutz Shefayim where he managed a 1000 head dairy farm, to heading out to manage 1100 head dairy farm in Northern Italy. After returning to Israel he worked as consultant and chief dairy nutritionist for large dairy companies. Learn more about Tsur and connect with him at https://www.linkedin.com/in/tsurhadar/#october7 #farming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comThis episode is sponsored by AMS Galaxy - BRINGING PRECISION DAIRY EQUIPMENT TO THE AMERICAN FARMER. Spend more time doing what you love. Use technology to your advantage.Visit https://agr.fyi/galaxyWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comNeed help with your agriculture based company's marketing plan? https://www.northamericanag.com/full-service-agri-marketingThe ultimate destination for online farm equipment auctions!Visit https://agr.fyi/fastline-auctionsRegister for the July 13, 2023 webinar at https://NorthAmericanAg.com/fastline-webinarSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com