Impact Farming Farm Marketer

In this week’s episode, Tracy speaks to Michael Langemeier from Purdue University about “Measuring Optimism in Agriculture: May 2024 Ag Economy Barometer Report.”

In this episode, Tracy and Michael speak about:


What is the Ag Economy Barometer? In this interview, Michael shares the survey results from over 400 producers who were asked a series of questions. Purdue University and CME then compile the results to create the Ag Economy Barometer. The May 2024 results are in. Michael reviews the survey results and covers the following areas: Indexes of Current Conditions and Future Expectations Farm Financial Performance Index Farm Capital Investment Index The primary reason that now is a bad time to make large investments. Short-term farmland value expectations Long-term farmland value expectations We discuss energy topics, including carbon markets, solar panels, and ethanol plans. Are producers excited about these opportunities? For USA producers…what is the likelihood of Congress passing a farm bill? Michael wraps up the interview and shares his final thoughts on the levels of optimism in agriculture right now. Are you curious how other producers are feeling about the current state of agriculture? How optimistic are farmers about the future of farming? You will need to tune into today’s episode to learn more.
 
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Show Resources
 
About the Ag Economy Barometer:

The Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer is a nationwide measure of the health of the U.S. agricultural economy. On the first Tuesday of each month, the Ag Economy Barometer provides a sense of the agricultural economy’s health with an index value. The index is based on a survey of 400 agricultural producers on economic sentiment each month. Quarterly, the index is accompanied by an in-depth survey of 100 agriculture and agribusiness thought leaders.

Ag Economy Barometer:
https://ag.purdue.edu/commercialag/ageconomybarometer/
 

Purdue Commercial Ag Learning Centre: https://ag.purdue.edu/commercialag/home/team/michael-langemeier/

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In this week’s episode, Tracy speaks to Patti Durand about “Conflict Landmines During Busy Farm Seasons.”

The vast majority of farms are multigenerational. While this is a beautiful thing, it can also present some additional challenges regarding the working atmosphere during hectic seasons.

Stress. Blow-ups. Arguments and more.

In this episode, Tracy and Patti speak about:
The way we speak to our farming family, especially during high-stress moments. Button pushing. Our family created our buttons, and they know how to push them. We are showing up tired and stressed and need to clearly communicate this to family members so they know where we are at and how they can help. Patti also dives into; assuming bad intentions, using hurtful words, blows and tempers and much more. To wrap the episode up, Patti leaves our audience with some practical and effective reminders and tips that will help preserve farm family relationships, empowering you to navigate conflicts with confidence.
You will want to catch this episode if you work with family on your farm.
 
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RESOURCES
 
Brightrack Consulting
Guiding Family Businesses to Confidently Navigate Unfamiliar Paths
~ Strategic Action Planner with a Heart ~ Listener ~ Speaker ~ Family Business Guide ~ Science of Motivation Nerd

Learn More Here
 
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In this week’s episode, Tracy speaks to Gerry Friesen about his new book titled “The Recovering Farmer: A Journey through the Labyrinth of Anxiety and Depression.”

Mental health in agriculture is one of the most critical conversations in our industry, and in today’s episode, Tracy and Gerry speak about:
Gerry’s personal mental health journey. How and why, he got started sharing this very personal story. Gerry shares the exciting announcement that his new book titled “The Recovering Farmer: A Journey through the Labyrinth of Anxiety and Depression” has been published and is now available for purchase. Tracy asks Gerry about his mission and vision behind the book and what readers can expect when they dive into the pages of his very personal journey of mental health and farming. Gerry shares some words of wisdom to those that are struggling. If you are interested in mental health and looking for a book that will impact you, please grab yourself a copy of Gerry’s book.

About The Book:

 
“The Recovering Farmer: A Journey through the Labyrinth of Anxiety and Depression”


Gerry Friesen, AKA The Recovering Farmer, chronicles his journey through anxiety, depression, and addiction to a place of improved mental health—and even, sometimes, happiness.

Mental health, or lack thereof, has become a major topic in agricultural communities around the world. There is still a strong stigma attached to conversations around mental health, and an attitude that to admit you need help is a shameful thing. This book aims to challenge those attitudes. It explores the aspects of Gerry’s life as a farmer that contributed to his mental health, both positive and negative, and contains concrete tools for others to maintain and build their mental wellness.

Surprisingly upbeat and admirably honest, The Recovering Farmer is a memoir, but it is also a powerful recovery tool for those struggling with mental health. It reminds us that it’s okay not to be okay, and that there is no shame in reaching out for help.
 
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RESOURCES

Buy Gerry’s Book - https://www.gerryfriesen.ca
 
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In this week’s episode, Tracy speaks to Dave Gallant from the Canadian Canola Growers Association about the “CCGA Cash Advance Program: The Financial Tool Farmers Are Looking For.”

Are you concerned about the current elevated interest rates?

If so, you will not want to miss this episode, in which Tracy speaks to Dave Gallant about a powerful borrowing tool for Canadian farmers.
In this episode, they discuss:
Who is the Canadian Canola Growers Association and what does it do? Did you know that in addition to policy development and advocating for Canola Growers, the association is also the largest and most experienced Advance Payments Program administrator in Canada and strives to make the program as convenient as possible? Dave shares that the Advance Payments Program is a federal program administered by the Canadian Canola Growers Association. It offers Canadian farmers marketing flexibility through interest-free and low-interest cash advances. Tracy asks Dave how the CCGA Cash Advance Program terms compare to traditional banks. Interest-free loans? Yes. CCGA is offering up to $250,000* interest-free for all eligible commodities and the interest-bearing portion at prime rate less 0.25%. Tracy and Dave speak about how this program is a fantastic tool for young farmers because no extra collateral/security is needed to borrow. It makes financing more accessible for those starting out and helps them build up a credit borrowing history. Did you know that the CCGA Cash Advance program covers 50 eligible commodities, including all major field crops and livestock, as well as organic crops and cattle. Tracy asks Dave when farmers can apply. Is it once a year, or can farmers apply at different times throughout the year? Do crops need to be seeded, and calves need to be born to apply? Dave shares all the details with our audience. In addition to the unbeatable financial terms, Dave shares how the cash advance is really a powerful marketing tool for farmers. It allows farmers to sell when they want to, not when they need to for cash flow purposes. One thing Dave notes for our audience is that while this program is National across Canada, CCGA only lends to certain provinces. He shares those provinces, and for farmers outside these provinces, he gives details on where farmers can find other institutions that lend to their province. Dave gives a final call to action, details on the application process, and where and how farmers can apply.
Are you interested in learning more about the CCGA Cash Advance Program? If so, you will want to tune into this episode and visit their website below.
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RESOURCES
CCGA Cash Advance Program



First-time customers, be sure to check us out online: www.ccga.com/cash 

Follow us on Twitter @ccga_ca
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In this week’s episode, Tracy speaks to Sarah Foster from 20/20 Seed Labs about “20/20 Seed Labs & Celebrating 35 Years In Business.”

In this episode, Tracy and Sarah discuss:


Sarah’s background, her immigration to Canada, and why she decided to launch 20/20 Seed Labs. Sarah shares more about 20/20 Seed Labs including who they are, what they do, and who their core customers are. They then delve into the unique aspects of Sarah’s entrepreneurial journey, including the biggest challenges, best things, and most surprising things about starting a business. 20/20 Seed Labs is on the brink of a significant milestone-35 years in business, a remarkable achievement. Tracy asks Sarah, “What are you personally most proud of as you reflect on these 35 years of business?” Looking forward, Tracy asks Sarah what she sees as the biggest opportunities and challenges for her company and the agriculture industry as a whole. Sarah discusses the crucial role of seed testing in the context of feeding a growing population, adapting crops to changing climates, and the future of agriculture. In true entrepreneurial style, Sarah shares some words of wisdom with other business owners and aspiring business owners. If you are curious about seed testing and love a great entrepreneurial story, you should tune into this episode.

Thanks for tuning in,

Tracy
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RESOURCES

Excellence in Accredited Seed Testing Services

Learn More


 
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In this week’s episode, Tracy speaks to Bruce Lowe and Baillie Shewkenek, from AG Direct Hail.

Are you in the market for hail insurance?

If so, you will not want to miss this episode, in which Tracy, Bruce, and Baillie discuss the AG Direct Hail difference and an exciting announcement for prairie farmers in 2024.

They discuss:


How is AG Direct Hail Insurance different from the competition? Hint: They are exclusively online and direct and have cut the middleman out of the premiums farmers pay. They also pride themselves on their service. Bruce explains that AG Direct Hail Insurance Ltd. does not use brokers or agents. Instead, everything is done online. You can register, check their rates, obtain a non-obligation quote, and apply for coverage all online at your convenience. Bruce opens the episode by sharing their great news for prairie farmers in 2024. You won’t want to miss this. This is a welcomed announcement for prairie farmers during a time of constant rate hikes. But it’s not all about price. Settling claims and the adjustment process are important to farmers and the team at AG Direct Hail. So, what happens when a producer realizes there is hail damage? Baillie walks us through the process, from creating a claim to the adjustment process and claim payout. They share more about their adjusters and their vast experience. Bruce shares how their seasoned adjusters are passionate about loss adjusting and are singularly focused on calculating a loss award that accurately reflects a farmer’s loss.

If you are in the market for hail insurance this year, I highly recommend you tune into today’s episode.

Thanks for tuning in,

Tracy
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RESOURCES




Visit our website www.AGDirectHail.com to learn more. 


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