North American Ag Spotlight: Agriculture & Farming News and Views

North American Ag, Chrissy Wozniak

Never forget, Food Security is National Security!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 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 agricultural topics. We share ideas and we discuss the issues. An open, welcoming community is a healthy community. Whether you are a farm family or a consumer, your life depends on ag.Join us at https://northamericanag.com

  1. Protecting Agriculture Starts with You

    10 hrs ago

    Protecting Agriculture Starts with You

    On this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, Chrissy Wozniak welcomes back Mindy Patterson, President and Co-Founder of The Cavalry Group, for an in-depth discussion on protecting agriculture through legislative advocacy, grassroots action, and informed leadership. Mindy explains how The Cavalry Group's Legislative Flash Map is helping farmers, ranchers, and animal owners stay informed about legislation affecting their livelihoods at the local, state, and federal levels, while providing practical tools to help citizens engage with lawmakers before it's too late. The conversation highlights why showing up at committee hearings and town halls can make a real difference, and why grassroots involvement remains one of the strongest tools for protecting agriculture and the future of American farming.  The discussion also covers the latest Farm Bill developments and several pieces of legislation that could significantly impact livestock producers, including the Puppy Protection Act, Better Care for Animals Act, SAFE Act, Goldie's Act, and other proposals that Mindy says are often presented under appealing names while carrying far-reaching consequences for agriculture and animal ownership. Chrissy and Mindy discuss the increasing influence of animal rights organizations in legislative processes, the ongoing efforts to ban working animals such as horse-drawn carriages, and why producers should pay close attention to these issues. The episode also revisits the Biden Administration's 30x30 initiative, conservation policies, and the continued importance of protecting private property rights. Mindy explains why she believes producers must remain vigilant, even as some initiatives appear to have slowed, and discusses the role of public-private partnerships and federal agencies in shaping future land use policies. Throughout the conversation, Mindy offers practical advice for farmers, ranchers, and rural landowners on how to become more involved in the legislative process, attend local meetings, build relationships with elected officials, and protect the future of American agriculture. She leaves listeners with an encouraging message that informed, organized citizens can and do make a difference when they choose to engage. To learn more about The Cavalry Group, become a member, or explore the Legislative Flash Map, visit TheCavalryGroup.com. Send us Fan Mail Schedule a demo today at ecorobotix.com Introducing FarmNewsDaily.com - your source for agriculture news! Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

    42 min
  2. Responsible Crop Protection & the BeSure! Campaign

    Jun 25

    Responsible Crop Protection & the BeSure! Campaign

    As planting and growing season continues across the country, stewardship remains one of the most important responsibilities for growers and applicators. In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, host Chrissy Wozniak sits down with Mike Aerts, Vice President of Science and Regulatory Affairs at the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association, to discuss the 2026 BeSure! Campaign and the role stewardship plays in protecting pollinators, wildlife, water quality, and agricultural productivity. Mike explains how the BeSure! Campaign serves as a decision-support resource that encourages growers and applicators to follow best management practices while emphasizing a simple but critical message: read and follow the label. He discusses the extensive scientific research behind pesticide labels and why the phrase "the label is the law" remains one of the most important principles in crop protection. The conversation explores the essential role pollinators play in agriculture, including their contribution to approximately one-third of the food we consume and more than 75% of the world's flowering plants. Mike also addresses common misconceptions surrounding pollinator health and explains how factors such as pests, diseases, habitat loss, weather events, and invasive species often have a greater impact on bee populations than many people realize. Listeners will learn about stewardship practices for treated seed and foliar applications, the importance of proper equipment calibration, spray drift management, and the growing use of technology to improve application accuracy. Mike also shares insights into Florida's Managed Pollinator Protection Plan (MP3), a voluntary program that helps growers and beekeepers communicate effectively to protect pollinators while maintaining crop production. The discussion also highlights a new concern for beekeepers across the United States—the invasive yellow-legged hornet—which has recently been detected in the Southeast and poses a significant threat to honey bee populations. Throughout the episode, Mike emphasizes that food security depends on responsible crop protection practices and collaboration among growers, applicators, beekeepers, registrants, and regulators. The result is a practical conversation about how agriculture continues to improve stewardship while producing the food, fiber, and specialty crops consumers depend on every day. To learn more about the BeSure! Campaign and access stewardship resources, visit GrowingMatters.org/BeSure. Send us Fan Mail Schedule a demo today at ecorobotix.com Introducing FarmNewsDaily.com - your source for agriculture news! Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

    29 min
  3. Beyond Fertilizer: The New Science of Water, Roots, and Yield

    Jun 11

    Beyond Fertilizer: The New Science of Water, Roots, and Yield

    With input costs remaining high and profit margins under pressure, producers are increasingly looking for ways to improve productivity without simply adding more fertilizer, more irrigation, or more crop inputs. In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, host Chrissy Wozniak sits down with Chad Godsey, Chief Agronomist at Green Evolution Technologies, to discuss how growers are evaluating new technologies, why efficiency has become the new benchmark for success, and how innovations at the soil and root level may help unlock future yield gains. Chad brings a unique perspective to the conversation, combining a PhD in Agronomy and Soil Science with a lifetime of farming experience on his family's multi-generational Colorado farm. He shares how his work as a consultant across more than 100,000 acres has shaped his views on technology adoption and why today's farmers are demanding proven, measurable results before investing in new products. The discussion explores how growers are increasingly conducting their own on-farm trials to validate new technologies and why return on investment has become the deciding factor in purchasing decisions. Chad explains that while farmers have been inundated with new products in recent years, many are now focused on technologies that can consistently improve water-use efficiency and nutrient-use efficiency rather than simply promise yield increases. A major focus of the episode is Green Evolution Technologies' InteliGel hydrogel platform. Chad explains how the technology works by absorbing and storing water and nutrients within the soil profile, making them available to crops during periods of stress. He discusses how the hydrogel can be applied using existing farm equipment, reducing barriers to adoption while fitting into current farming practices. The conversation also dives into field trial results from corn and soybean production systems. Chad shares data from third-party research that demonstrated significant yield improvements and profitability gains, particularly during periods of late-season drought stress. He also discusses the potential for multi-year benefits from a single application, an important factor when evaluating long-term return on investment. Listeners will hear Chad's perspective on the challenges facing ag technology companies, including the common mistake of bringing products to market before they have been fully validated across different environments and management systems. He offers practical advice for growers evaluating new products, emphasizing the importance of establishing clear benchmarks and measuring efficiency improvements over time. Whether you're interested in water management, nutrient efficiency, precision agriculture, or the future of crop production, this episode offers valuable insights into how innovative technologies are helping farmers do more with less while maintaining profitability. Learn more about Green Evolution Technologies and InteliGel by visiting https://greenevolutiontechnologies.com, or send Chad an email with your questions to chad@hydrogel.us. Thank you to Chad Godsey for joining us on North American Ag Spotlight and sharing his expertise on the future of agricultural productivity. Send us Fan Mail Schedule a demo today at ecorobotix.com Introducing FarmNewsDaily.com - your source for agriculture news! Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

    26 min

  4. 2025-09-26

    Inside the Innovations and Collaborations Powering FIRA USA 2025

    Season 5: Episode 217 In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, Chrissy Wozniak welcomes back Gwendoline Legrand, Co-Director of FIRA, to discuss the upcoming FIRA USA 2025 event taking place October 21–23 in Woodland, California. Known as the premier gathering for agricultural robotics and automation, FIRA USA brings together growers, innovators, OEMs, startups, and investors for three days of live demos, collaboration, and networking. Gwendoline shares what makes Woodland such a strong venue, why in-field demos are critical for showing growers real-world solutions, and how FIRA continues to evolve by listening directly to farmers and industry stakeholders. She also reveals exciting new announcements, including John Deere’s autonomous ultra tractor demo and the strong involvement of New Holland and other leading manufacturers. This year marks the launch of the Women in Ag Robotics Award, celebrating trailblazing women shaping the future of automation in agriculture. Gwen explains why this award is so important, how it will highlight women across all roles in the industry, and how it aims to inspire the next generation of leaders. With more than 40 states and 50 countries represented, FIRA USA 2025 is set to be a truly global event, offering growers free registration and unmatched access to the future of farming. Learn more about about at https://fira-usa.com/ Learn more about the Women in Ag Robotics Award at https://airtable.com/appngGw7fx3GXRLN5/pagSGexHt8UUIrYFA/form #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.com Want to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.com Don't just thank a farmer, pray for one too! Send us Fan Mail Schedule a demo today at ecorobotix.com Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

    23 min

  5. 2025-09-17

    How Biofuels Are Changing Opportunities for US Producers

    Season 5: Episode 216  In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, Chrissy Wozniak sits down with Jacqui Fatka, Lead Economist for Farm Supply and Biofuels at CoBank, to discuss the shifting landscape of biofuels and the growing role of aviation fuels in agriculture. With over two decades of experience in ag policy, trade, and renewable fuels, Jacqui provides valuable insights into how demand for aviation fuel is reshaping feedstock markets and creating both opportunities and challenges for U.S. farmers. The conversation explores how federal policy is driving investment in biofuels, how aviation fuels are influencing traditional crops like corn and soy, and what new feedstock options may come into play. Jacqui shares her perspective on how producers can prepare for increased volatility, how trade and global markets tie into this shift, and what rural cooperatives and agribusinesses need to know to stay ahead. Looking forward, Jacqui highlights the biggest hurdles to scaling aviation fuels and the role of infrastructure, investment, and innovation in meeting demand. She also previews her upcoming role as moderator of the Sustainable Aviation Fuels panel at the Women in Agribusiness Summit this September, where industry leaders will discuss biofuels investment trends and how aviation fuel adoption will impact feedstock markets. Learn more about CoBank at https://cobank.com/ #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.com Want to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.com Don't just thank a farmer, pray for one too! Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

    38 min

  6. 2025-09-11

    What Impact does the Consumer Have on Ag Markets?

    Season 5: Episode 215 In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, Chrissy Wozniak sits down with Xinnan Li, VP and Senior Packaging Analyst at Rabobank, to discuss how customer trends and evolving food preferences are reshaping agricultural markets. Xinnan shares her journey from studying biology and food science to analyzing packaging, logistics, and consumer-driven change for one of the world’s largest agri-focused banks. The conversation explores how shifting demographics, particularly the influence of Gen Z and millennials, are driving demand for local and organic foods—yet also how tightened disposable income is limiting higher-priced categories. Xinnan highlights the long-term rise of convenience, the impact of weight loss medications on portion sizes, and how packaging has become a powerful tool for both branding and efficiency. They also dive into the rise of the MAHA movement and what it signals for future consumer behavior, the risks producers face when markets overcorrect, and the ways demographic changes and global diversity will continue to shape food demand. Xinnan emphasizes the importance of transparency, storytelling, and aligning operations with consumer expectations. Looking ahead, she previews her upcoming presentation at the Women in Agribusiness Summit in Orlando this September, where she’ll provide a data-driven look at these same themes—demographics, disposable income, trade, and consumer bifurcation—and what they mean for the future of agriculture. Learn more about Rabobank at https://rabobank.com Learn more about Women in Agribusiness at https://www.womeninag.com/ #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.com Want to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.com Don't just thank a farmer, pray for one too! Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

    29 min

  7. 2025-09-07

    Why Exhibitors Love the American Royal Fall Livestock Show in Kansas City

    Season 5: Episode 214 In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, Chrissy Wozniak is joined by Matt Durian, Livestock Manager at the American Royal, and Mae Boedeker, Livestock and Rodeo Coordinator, to talk about the upcoming American Royal Fall Livestock Show. A Kansas City tradition since 1899, the American Royal has been inspiring and educating generations through its nationally recognized livestock shows, rodeos, equine events, and the world’s largest barbecue competition. The Fall Livestock Show, set for October 10–26, 2025, is one of the premier livestock events in the country, bringing exhibitors together from across the United States and beyond. Matt and Mae share what makes this show stand out, from its exhibitor-friendly approach to its rich history spanning over 126 years. This year, attendees can look forward to the return of the Boer goat show, expanded divisions, and even the excitement of the World Hereford Conference being held in conjunction with the American Royal. Matt and Mae also reflect on what excites them most about the show, from Junior Market Week to the unforgettable Royalty Drive under the bright lights of Hale Arena. They discuss the importance of connecting the public with agriculture, the life lessons youth gain from showing livestock, and the friendships and bonds that exhibitors build along the way. For families traveling to Kansas City, Matt highlights the city’s famous barbecue and local attractions, while Mae shares her favorite coffee spots to keep exhibitors and visitors fueled during show week. With the registration deadline coming up on September 10, and late entries accepted until September 15, they encourage exhibitors to enter early at americanroyal.com. The American Royal’s mission goes beyond competition, with proceeds supporting scholarships and educational initiatives. Matt and Mae encourage both individuals and businesses to get involved through sponsorships, donations, or volunteering to ensure the continued success of this historic event. Don’t miss this conversation about why the American Royal Fall Livestock Show is so deeply cherished by exhibitors and the agriculture community. Learn more at https://americanroyal.com/ #livestock #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.com Want to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.com Don't just thank a farmer, pray for one too! Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

    17 min

  8. 2025-08-27

    Marketing Through Headwinds: Ag Marketing Strategies in an Uncertain Economy

    Season 5: Episode 213  In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, Chrissy Wozniak sits down with Raquel Gottsch Koehler, Co-Owner and Chief Marketing & Creative Officer of Rural Media Group, to talk about how agri-marketing is shifting in 2025 and what’s truly working in today’s uncertain economy. Raquel shares her unique perspective as the next generation leading RFD-TV, Rural Radio on SiriusXM, and FarmHER + RanchHER, balancing her late father’s legacy with bold innovation. She discusses how rural audiences are consuming content differently than just a few years ago, the growing importance of authenticity in brand storytelling, and why both linear TV and digital streaming still have a place in ag marketing. The conversation also explores the relaunch of FarmHER + RanchHER, the importance of elevating women in agriculture, and how RMG is tackling big issues like mental health, regenerative agriculture, and entrepreneurship through rural storytelling. Raquel explains what agri-marketers are getting right—and wrong—in 2025, and why genuine connections matter more than ever. Plus, Raquel previews her upcoming panel at the Women in Agribusiness Summit in Orlando: “Marketing Through Headwinds: Ag Marketing Strategies in an Uncertain Economy.” She’ll be joining other industry leaders to discuss how brands can adapt and thrive through today’s challenges. Learn more about RMG at https://www.rfdtv.com/ Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

    36 min
See All (223)

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Never forget, Food Security is National Security!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 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 agricultural topics. We share ideas and we discuss the issues. An open, welcoming community is a healthy community. Whether you are a farm family or a consumer, your life depends on ag.Join us at https://northamericanag.com

Information

You Might Also Like