Farm4Profit Podcast

David Whitaker, Corey Hillebo, Tanner Winterhof
  • 4.7 (38)
  • INVESTING
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

Our mission is to provide farms and operators an independent and unbiased outlet for information related to increasing the profitability of their farming operation. We will be providing farms and operators of all sizes and experience levels access to the latest trends, projections, and the tools necessary to increase farming profitability. We will take each episode to deliver latest news, what's working for active farms, and a topic of focus each episode. Remember, if you aren't farming for profit you won't be farming for long.

  1. Ranching with a Purpose : Luke & Natalie Kovarik

    2D AGO

    Ranching with a Purpose : Luke & Natalie Kovarik

    This episode explores the grit, growth, and grace behind building a successful ranch from the ground up. Luke and Natalie share how they turned a shared dream into a working legacy—growing from a small commercial herd to a nationally recognized registered Angus operation known for elite genetics and a customer-first mindset. We dive into: The early years—from purchasing their first commercial cows to flushing embryos and selling top-tier bulls. The business evolution—including their first online bull sale in 2021 and the move to their first live auction in 2024, which featured the $150,000 high-selling LT Talent bull. Faith and family balance—how they juggle running a ranch, raising three kids (Tad, Jaks, and Rue), and staying grounded in what matters most. Natalie’s journey from pharmacy to ag advocacy, building an online platform that reaches over 200,000 followers across Instagram, TikTok, and podcasting. Luke’s focus on genetics, performance, and sustainability, emphasizing that profitability and maternal strength go hand-in-hand. Their vision for the future, from expanding their herd to mentoring the next generation of producers and continuing to grow the ranch’s reputation for quality and integrity. Listeners will also get a behind-the-scenes look at how Kovarik Cattle Co uses AI, embryo transfer, and genomic testing to stay on the cutting edge, while keeping family and faith at the heart of every decision. 🧭 Key TakeawaysSuccess in ranching takes faith, patience, and partnership—not just cattle. Start small, but start right—every big legacy begins with one bold decision. The power of storytelling in agriculture can connect communities and inspire future producers. Combining science and sustainability keeps the operation profitable and purpose-driven. Building something meaningful means embracing both tradition and technology. Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today! https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/   Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!  Website: www.Farm4Profit.com Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com Call/Text: 515.207.9640 Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc  Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    58 min
  2. From Gut Feel to Game Plan : How to Make Every Dollar Count in 2025

    5D AGO

    From Gut Feel to Game Plan : How to Make Every Dollar Count in 2025

    “Navigating Tight Margins with Financial Mastery” dives straight into the realities of today’s ag economy. Grant Wiese joins the Farm4Profit crew to unpack how producers can manage risk, make data-backed marketing decisions, and plan for the future—even when margins are razor thin. Listeners will hear how knowing your true cost of production can transform decision-making. Many farmers can quote a yield goal, but few know their exact breakeven per acre. Grant explains why that’s dangerous, especially when a small swing in grain price—say, $4.25 vs. $4.75 corn—can make or break profitability. We explore: What separates top-performing farms from the rest: discipline, review frequency, and financial clarity. The tools and tactics that make cost tracking doable, not daunting—like Farm 640’s break-even calculators, enterprise analysis, and scenario planning tools. How to decide whether an input (like fungicide) is worth it—or if it’s better to pocket the margin. Strategies for 2026 planning, especially for those facing lender pressure or uncertain financing. Grant also addresses one of the most overlooked challenges in ag finances: family living costs. Are they still silently eating into farm cash flow? And how can farmers balance growth and survival when every acre and dollar count? 🌾 Key Takeaways“You can’t afford not to know your numbers.” Track cost per acre, per bushel, and per enterprise—not just yield. Use real ROI data to guide every major decision. Revisit numbers monthly, not just at year-end. Balance ambition with financial stability—growth should build equity, not just acres. 🎁 Special GiveawayGrant is offering an exclusive Cash Flow+ Giveaway—a tool worth $8,000 designed to help farmers take control of their financial future. 👉 To enter, visit farm640.com and complete the simple form under “Giveaway | Farm640.” Entries close one week after this episode airs. 💬 Call to ActionLearn more at farm640.com and check out the Farm Buying Toolbox to start mastering your numbers today. Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today! https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/   Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!  Website: www.Farm4Profit.com Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com Call/Text: 515.207.9640 Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc  Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    49 min
  3. From Dairy Barns to Lambs & Soil Science: Andrew Luzum Balances Farming and Innovation

    OCT 23

    From Dairy Barns to Lambs & Soil Science: Andrew Luzum Balances Farming and Innovation

    Andrew Luzum—a farmer, conservation advocate, and strategic agronomist—to explore how traditional values and modern innovation can work hand in hand to sustain agriculture for generations to come. Andrew shares how his family operation, rooted near a trout hatchery in Winneshiek County, has made water quality and environmental responsibility central to their mission. Knowing that their farm directly impacts local waterways, Andrew emphasizes a personal commitment to stewardship: “We have a tremendous influence on the quality of water that comes out of those springs, and I feel a responsibility to do my part.” We also dive into Andrew’s professional journey with Corteva Agriscience, where he’s spent nearly a decade advancing through roles in crop protection, territory management, and now as a Nutrient Maximizer Strategic Account Manager. He explains how this role supports farmers in optimizing fertility efficiency, improving return on investment, and protecting soil health through science-based solutions. Listeners will hear about: How Andrew’s upbringing on a diverse dairy and livestock farm shaped his leadership style and work ethic. His experience experimenting with cover crops and the lessons learned from integrating them into a working cow-calf and row-crop system. The link between data-driven agronomy and environmental outcomes, and how Corteva’s nutrient maximizer tools are helping farms do more with less. His perspective as an Iowa Corn Animal Agriculture and Environment Committee member—bridging farmers, science, and policy. The episode closes with a reflection on what “profit” really means in modern agriculture: not just financial returns, but long-term resilience, cleaner water, and stronger rural communities. Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today! https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/   Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!  Website: www.Farm4Profit.com Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com Call/Text: 515.207.9640 Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc  Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1 hr
  4. Smart Planning, Big Yields: Champions and the Science Behind Their Success

    OCT 20

    Smart Planning, Big Yields: Champions and the Science Behind Their Success

    Alex Noll, a farmer whose operation has earned national recognition for both corn and wheat yields, shares how he achieved a remarkable 340.39 bu/acre corn yield and consistent top finishes in dryland wheat. Alex explains his crop rotation strategy—especially how following wheat can boost corn and soybean yields by 5–8% and grain sorghum by nearly 30 bu/acre in dry conditions—and how he balances contest-level ambition with economic reality. Matt, another Kansas producer, joins the conversation to highlight the practical side of yield pursuit: evaluating inputs by “yield-per-dollar,” tracking field data, and using AgXplore tools to guide smarter investments. Representing AgXplore, Jenna breaks down the agronomic science behind products like GroPak AI, Architech, Onward Max, and XR5 Sulfur, explaining how they enhance nutrient uptake, stress tolerance, and root vigor in clear, farmer-friendly terms. She also discusses how AgXplore’s reps and data platforms help farmers evaluate ROI and build customized fertility programs tailored to their operations. Together, the group explores: When to invest and when to hold back—and how to make that call using real data. How contest-level practices can inform everyday farming decisions without breaking the bank. Balancing high yields with soil and biological health, ensuring long-term sustainability. Planning for 2026, from refining rotations to leveraging field trials and digital tools for next season’s edge. This episode is a blueprint for farmers looking to elevate their yield game—grounded in practical experience, data-driven decisions, and the support of agronomic partners who understand that profit isn’t just about bushels, it’s about balance. Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today! https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/   Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!  Website: www.Farm4Profit.com Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com Call/Text: 515.207.9640 Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc  Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 4m
  5. The Blueprint for Great Wine: Farming with Heart and Precision

    OCT 16

    The Blueprint for Great Wine: Farming with Heart and Precision

    The Farm4Profit Podcast heads to California wine country for a two-part series highlighting the remarkable people shaping the legacy and future of Sonoma County Winegrowers. In Part 1, Dan Rotlisberger—fifth-generation farmer and Vineyard Manager at Robert Young Estate Vineyards—shares how his family’s operation evolved from diverse orchards to one of Alexander Valley’s most respected vineyards. He discusses the heritage of Sonoma County farming, the transition from prunes to grapes, and the enduring commitment to sustainability and soil stewardship. With over 14 years of professional vineyard management experience, Dan also touches on how education, mentorship, and local collaboration keep Sonoma at the forefront of responsible viticulture. In Part 2, listeners meet Kris Hicks, Vineyard Manager for Vimark Vineyard Management and Trione Vineyards & Winery. Kris’s unconventional journey—from construction and concrete work to vineyard leadership—embodies what it means to grow through grit and curiosity. He shares stories of mentorship under longtime vineyard legend John Tankersley, his philosophy of farming alongside his crew, and the techniques he employs—water conservation, cover crops, integrated pest management—to farm profitably while leaving the smallest environmental footprint possible. Across both episodes, listeners gain insights into: How multi-generational family farms adapt across decades of change. The parallels between Sonoma’s sustainability goals and the Midwest’s regenerative agriculture movement. The mindset of vineyard managers who balance heritage, quality, and innovation. The personal stories that keep family farming—and the passion for the land—alive. From Dan’s century-old family farm to Kris’s craftsmanship in every vine, these episodes reveal that farming excellence is both art and science—no matter the crop or coast. Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today! https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/   Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!  Website: www.Farm4Profit.com Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com Call/Text: 515.207.9640 Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc  Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    58 min
  6. The Science Behind Ocean Minerals ; Powering the Soil, Crops, and Livestock

    OCT 13

    The Science Behind Ocean Minerals ; Powering the Soil, Crops, and Livestock

    This Farm4Profit episode brings listeners a deep dive into the science and story of Sea Energy Agriculture, tracing how ocean minerals have moved from experimental hydroponic plots in Florida to practical, profitable farm programs across North America. Guests Lynn Hoover, Senior Director of Agronomy and Commercial Sales, and Michael Sileck, Commercial Sales Leader for Sea-90 and Baja Gold Salt Co., join the hosts to share how the 90+ balanced minerals and trace elements found in ocean water can rebuild soil vitality, elevate livestock performance, and close the loop between soil, plant, and human health. Listeners will discover: The Origins – How Dr. Maynard Murray, a medical doctor and physiologist, pioneered ocean-water research, proving that sea solids could rejuvenate mineral-deficient soils and improve the health of animals and humans alike. Modern Application – How Sea-90 brings those findings into modern agriculture with naturally balanced ocean minerals—5x more mineral content than competitors and the lowest sodium levels of any salt available. Real-World Results – Case studies showing improved crop performance in grass, grain, and bean programs, and measurable gains in livestock health and fertility when using Sea-90 as part of feeding and pasture systems. The Big Picture – How the Sea-90 approach supports regenerative agriculture by reconnecting soil health, plant nutrition, animal vitality, and ultimately human well-being. The conversation also explores practical takeaways: What sets ocean minerals apart from conventional fertility inputs. How Sea-90 integrates into current crop and livestock operations. Common misconceptions about mineral programs—and how science and on-farm data dispel them. Why balanced mineralization is foundational for nutrient density, yield stability, and long-term profitability.   Connect with the Sea-90 Team! Applications and Program Development:  (717) 580-1458Sales and More Information:  (770) 361-6092Email:  hello@sea-90.comWebsite:  www.sea-90.comSocials:  @sea90 (IG / FB), @sea90oceanmins (TikTok) Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today! https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/   Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!  Website: www.Farm4Profit.com Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com Call/Text: 515.207.9640 Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc  Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    44 min
  7. Resiliency : The Griggs Farms Story

    OCT 9

    Resiliency : The Griggs Farms Story

    This Farm4Profit episode features Matt and Kelly Griggs, owners of Griggs Farms LLC in Humboldt, Tennessee — a fifth-generation family operation growing corn, soybeans, wheat, and cotton on 2,000 acres. What began in 1882 with cotton has evolved into a nationally recognized regenerative farm rooted in conservation and faith. Listeners will hear how: Matt began experimenting with cover crops back in 2011 — long before it was common — and turned those early trials into measurable success: improving soil structure, reducing runoff, and boosting water infiltration by over 1,200%. Kelly, originally from Chicago with a background in hospitality, left her corporate career to become an essential partner on the farm. She now runs equipment, manages operations, and advocates for farm wives across the country. The couple faced immense challenges — including Matt’s traumatic combine accident in 2020 and Kelly’s battles with cancer and autoimmune illness — and used their platform to openly share their faith, perseverance, and community support through it all. The conversation dives deep into regenerative agriculture, family legacy, and living your faith out loud, including: How they use multi-species cover crops like cereal rye, clover, radish, and buckwheat to build resilience. The importance of balancing modern technology (Case IH & John Deere) with stewardship principles. What it means to lead publicly as a family through pain, healing, and gratitude. The Griggs’ work has earned national recognition, including the 2020 Mid-South High Cotton Award and features on the History Channel’s “The American Farm.” You’ll also hear about their community outreach — from lighting up a tractor and grain cart with Christmas lights to connecting with other farm families through events like Farmers Off the Farm Cruise (2025). The show closes with a lighthearted “Would You Rather” segment, reminding listeners that even the most accomplished farmers still love a good laugh between long harvest days. Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today! https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/   Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!  Website: www.Farm4Profit.com Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com Call/Text: 515.207.9640 Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc  Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    58 min
  8. How PRO Service Changes the Repair Game ; The Future of Self-Repair

    OCT 6

    How PRO Service Changes the Repair Game ; The Future of Self-Repair

    For years, farmers have asked for more transparency and tools to maintain their own equipment without depending solely on dealerships. John Deere’s new Operations Center PRO Service may be the most significant answer yet. Guest Kent Brown joins the Farm4Profit team to unpack what this new system offers, why it matters, and how it reshapes the balance of power in the repair world. Listeners will learn: What PRO Service is: A licensed, digital self-repair and diagnostic platform replacing the old Customer Service ADVISOR. It delivers PIN-specific manuals, real-time machine health data, and AI-powered search functions for faster troubleshooting. What makes it different: Interactive electrical schematics, controller reprogramming tools, and the ability to perform diagnostic tests—all without relying solely on the dealer network. Who it’s for: U.S. and Canadian farmers, custom operators, and independent technicians—anyone who wants more repair independence. Kent explains how this platform empowers farmers to diagnose issues, order parts, and update software directly, while still allowing seamless collaboration with dealers when needed. The episode also dives into the broader right-to-repair debate, exploring how PRO Service reflects Deere’s effort to address farmer concerns and regulatory scrutiny. With pricing starting at $195 per machine annually for owner-operators—or $5,995 per year for independent service providers—the investment could quickly pay for itself through reduced downtime and fewer service calls. The Farm4Profit hosts explore critical questions, including: How easy is it for everyday farmers to learn the system? Does it really give farmers control—or just a better window into Deere’s data? Could this open the door to predictive maintenance, AI-driven insights, or fully offline repair libraries in the future? Ultimately, this episode breaks down how PRO Service moves the industry forward—providing a middle ground between self-sufficiency and expert support—and what it could mean for the next generation of farm repair culture. Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today! https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/   Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!  Website: www.Farm4Profit.com Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com Call/Text: 515.207.9640 Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc  Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    41 min
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Hosts & Guests

4.7
out of 5
38 Ratings

About

Our mission is to provide farms and operators an independent and unbiased outlet for information related to increasing the profitability of their farming operation. We will be providing farms and operators of all sizes and experience levels access to the latest trends, projections, and the tools necessary to increase farming profitability. We will take each episode to deliver latest news, what's working for active farms, and a topic of focus each episode. Remember, if you aren't farming for profit you won't be farming for long.

Information

  • Creator
    David Whitaker, Corey Hillebo, Tanner Winterhof
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    501
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Farm4Profit Podcast

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