Whole Grain

Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS)
  • 5.0 (7)
  • CAREERS
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Hosted by Jim Lenz, GEAPS’ Director of Global Education and Training, The Whole Grain Podcast shares expert insights, real-world stories, and innovative ideas shaping the future of grain handling and processing. Each episode features voices from across the industry, including GEAPS members, educators and special guests. With a growing audience spanning 94 countries, the podcasts fuels growth, innovation and connection in the grain and grain processing industries—one conversation at a time. -Subscribe on your favorite podcast app or listen at www.geaps.com/wholegrain -Learn how GEAPS can help you grow your career at www.GEAPS.com -Explore exclusive GEAPS member benefits at www.geaps.com/membership -Register for our online courses at https://www.geaps.com/training-education/online-learning/full-course-catalog/ -Connect with host Jim Lenz at james@geaps.com.

  1. 2D AGO

    The Modern Grain Facility: Markets, Risk, and the Systems That Make It Work

    Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. Across the grain industry, facility leaders are navigating a level of uncertainty we haven’t seen in years. Volatile commodity markets. Weather extremes. Labor shortages. Tighter margins. Rising expectations around safety, uptime, and quality. In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz sits down with Matt Koch, Chief Marketing Officer at Sukup Manufacturing Co., to explore what it really takes to operate a modern grain facility in today’s unpredictable environment. From macro market pressures and geopolitical shifts to storage strategy, grain conditioning risk, and practical automation, this conversation moves beyond equipment to systems thinking. Matt shares a global perspective from working with producers, commercial elevators, terminals, and processors across more than 100 countries. The takeaway? Long-term success isn’t just about buying low and selling high. It’s about reducing loss, designing resilient systems, and operating dependably—year after year. What You’ll Learn• Why many operators are shifting from short-term optimization to 3–7 year strategic planning  • How global trade, energy markets, and geopolitics are shaping grain infrastructure decisions  • Why storage is becoming a strategic lever—not just capacity  • The hidden risks of large-bin consolidation and long-term storage  • How under-designed aeration systems quietly erode margins  • Why CO₂ monitoring often detects grain issues before temperature spikes  • What meaningful automation actually looks like in commercial facilities  • How modular OEM automation systems can improve safety and consistency  • Why preventing loss often matters more than market timing Key ThemesStorage as Strategy Well-designed storage allows operators to create market flexibility, improve throughput, standardize multi-site operations, and reduce management complexity. Scale has changed the game—and infrastructure must evolve with it. Grain Conditioning Risk As bins grow larger, risk grows with them. Consolidated storage requires tighter monitoring. CO₂ levels, moisture control, proper fan management, and active oversight are critical to protecting grain value over long-term storage cycles. Automation for Real-World Operations Automation isn’t about flashy control rooms. It’s about preventing operator error at 2:00 a.m., improving safety, supporting lean teams, and ensuring consistent procedures across facilities. Loss Prevention Over Speculation While commodity markets drive headlines, operational discipline drives profitability. Reducing spoilage, minimizing downtime, and designing dependable systems may be the most powerful competitive advantage. Learn more at:  www.sukup.com Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

    39 min

  2. JAN 20

    GEAPS Exchange 2026: More Than a Trade Show — Education, Innovation, and Connections That Move Our Industry Forward

    Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. GEAPS Exchange 2026: What to Expect — and How to Get the Most Value Every year, there’s one time when the global grain community gathers in one place to learn, connect, and solve real-world challenges together. In this special episode, Jim Lenz is joined by Bob Horvat, current GEAPS Board President, to spotlight GEAPS Exchange 2026—the premier event in the grain and grain processing industries. Bob shares why Exchange exists, why it still matters, and how both first-time and returning attendees can get maximum value—from education and Innovation Stations to the Expo Hall, special events, and the relationships that continue long after the show ends. With 319,950 square feet of Expo Hall, 400+ exhibitors, Innovation Stations, and 45+ hours of education across five tracks (Processing, Maintenance, Grain Operations, Safety, and Employee Development/Leadership), Exchange is designed to bring practical learning and problem-solving to every role in the industry. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why GEAPS Exchange exists—and how it supports the GEAPS mission to champion, connect, and serve the global grain industryThe value of Exchange for operations, maintenance, safety, processing, and leadership rolesWhat “real-world education” looks like at Exchange (sessions, demonstrations, and interactive learning)How to approach the Expo Hall like a pro—especially with 400+ exhibitorsThe community-building events that make Exchange feel like your extended grain industry familyWho should attend (hint: everyone) and how to plan for maximum return on time and investmentKey event details, pricing context, and practical tips to attend with your teamHighlights discussed Education formats: classroom sessions, Innovation Stations demos, and interactive learning (including safety-focused experiences)Five education tracks: Processing, Maintenance, Grain Operations, Safety, Employee Development (Leadership)Networking & special events: First-Timer/International events, Get Acquainted Party, Welcome Reception, Fun Run/Walk, Cornhole Tournament, Grain Merchandisers Networking Event, and Music BingoWhy Exchange energizes people and sends them home with:renewed enthusiasm,new ideas,knowledge to apply, andnew connections—people to call when you need helpKey details to remember GEAPS Exchange 2026 WebsiteFebruary 21–24, 2026Kansas City Convention Center400+ exhibitors45+ hours of educationInnovation Stations and live demonstrationsOne of the biggest values of Exchange: the people you meet—and the problems you solve togetherGrain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

    27 min

  3. 12/22/2025

    Helping Grain Customers Do More with Less: Real Value in Real Time

    Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, talks with Kyle Dixon, Vice President of Sales at IBT Industrial Solutions, about how grain facilities can do more with less—while improving reliability, uptime, and long-term value. Kyle brings a rare perspective, having served as an IBT sales rep, regional manager, and now VP of Sales. He shares practical insights on proactive maintenance, simplifying storerooms, using technology wisely, and supporting a changing workforce. The focus is on real-world solutions grain professionals can apply immediately. Key Takeaways (Condensed) Doing more with less means maximizing capability—not cutting cornersProactive maintenance reduces downtime and riskSimple changes can deliver big operational winsTechnology works best alongside hands-on observationEducation and supplier partnerships strengthen today’s workforceSuppliers can act as an extension of customer teamsFeatured Partner IBT Industrial Solutions is a GEAPS Premier Partner supporting grain operations with engineering expertise and responsive MRO solutions. IBT Industrial Solutions: https://www.ibtinc.com/IBT Grain Industry Solutions: https://www.ibtinc.com/industries/grain/Past Whole Grain Podcast Episodes Featuring IBT Guests Keeping Grain Moving: Preventative Maintenance and Supplier Tipshttps://www.geaps.com/news-publications/whole-grain-podcast/keeping-grain-moving-preventative-maintenance-and-supplier-tips/Everything from Conveyor Belting to Buckets with a 30-Year Grain Pro https://www.geaps.com/news-publications/whole-grain-podcast/everything-from-conveyor-belting-to-buckets-with-a-30-year-grain-pro/Pillars of the Grain Industryhttps://www.geaps.com/news-publications/whole-grain-podcast/pillars-of-the-grain-industry/GEAPS Education & Events GEAPS Conveyor Training (Hands-On Programs): https://www.geaps.com/events-meetings/conveyor-training/GEAPS Online Learning: https://www.geaps.com/training-education/online-learning/GEAPS Exchange: https://www.geaps.com/exchange/Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

    18 min

  4. 11/23/2025

    What Does a Test Tell You? How Sampling and Testing Protect Grain Safety and Quality

    Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, sits down with Dr. Gretchen Mosher, Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Iowa State University. Dr. Mosher is a nationally recognized expert on grain quality, measurement systems, and safety management — and her research reveals why testing is one of the most powerful tools grain handlers have for protecting quality, reducing risk, and making informed operational decisions. Key Takeaways Testing is about information — not punishment. Testing provides actionable data that helps grain handlers make better decisions about drying, storing, blending, and shipping products. It validates when quality is on target and identifies small issues before they become costly problems. A strong testing strategy is essential risk management. Most grain quality or safety failures start small. Routine sampling and testing catch issues early, protect millions of dollars in inventory, and support compliance with FSMA and other regulatory requirements. Both incoming and outgoing testing matter. Testing inbound grain establishes a baseline. Testing outbound grain provides documentation and leverage when customers question quality — proving the product met standards when it left the facility. Consistency is king: garbage in, garbage out. Valid sampling procedures are the foundation of trustworthy data. Inconsistent sampling or uncalibrated equipment create errors that distort results. Composite sampling and two-tiered testing improve reliability. Small samples collected over time create an accurate picture of quality. Simple rapid tests help flag samples needing deeper analysis. Testing data only has value if you use it. Data that’s collected but ignored is wasted investment. Facilities should use test results to guide blending, storage decisions, aeration, safety controls, and customer allocation. Good testing protects export markets. Documentation proves that grain marketed as non-GMO, food-grade, or identity-preserved was handled correctly. Future technologies will enhance sampling — not replace judgment. Machine vision, sensors, and automated systems are improving sampling accuracy, but the core purpose remains the same: better information for better decisions. Pull Quotes “Testing gives you information — and people make better decisions when they have better data.”“Most big problems in grain start small. Testing helps you catch them early.”“Garbage in, garbage out. Consistent sampling is the key to reliable results.”“If you collect data and don’t use it, you might as well put a pile of money on the floor and light it on fire.”“You have total control over the quality of your data.”Important Links & Related Episodes Iowa State University Department of Agricultural and Biosystems EngineeringIntroduction to Grain Quality Management (GEAPS Online Course)Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

    31 min

  5. 11/04/2025

    Temporary Storage – Is Your System Ready?

    Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. Temporary Storage – Is Your System Ready? Temporary storage plays a critical role in grain operations—but it comes with unique challenges, risks, and costs that must be carefully managed. In this episode, 40-year industry veteran Bob Marlow shares hard-earned lessons, success strategies, technologies improving temporary storage, and a practical framework for evaluating whether this year's plan is truly ready. From grain quality protection and site design to cost tracking and operational safety, Bob provides real-world examples every grain facility can learn from—plus one cautionary tale you won’t forget. What You’ll Learn in This Episode When and why facilities rely on temporary storage—and how to distinguish emergency vs. true temporary storageThe biggest advantages vs. drawbacks compared to permanent storageEssential steps to ensure your temporary storage system is ready before harvestHow pad design, tarps, aeration, and fan management impact safety and grain qualityWhy grain quality issues escalate faster in piles and how to prevent lossThe most commonly overlooked or “hidden” costs—and how to track themNew tech and evolving best practices (CO₂ monitoring, wind-based fan control, improved tarps, cover-on-first systems)A practical readiness checklist based on Purdue’s SLAM method (Sanitize, Level, Aerate, Monitor)Key Takeaways Temporary storage is not “cheap storage.” It has recurring costs and higher risk that demand intentional planning.Grain quality is the make-or-break factor. Moisture, temperature swings, and tarp failures can quickly turn #1 grain into sample grade.Don’t “set it and forget it.” Fan mismanagement can cause re-wetting, heating, mold, and insects.Track true costs annually. Labor, tarps, repairs, pest control, fuel/electricity, and reclaim losses add up.Technology is changing the game. CO₂ monitoring, wind-based fan controls, and cover-on-first designs are improving outcomes.Bob’s Readiness Checklist (SLAM Method) Before harvest, confirm: S – Sanitize: Clean pad, remove old grain, treat for pests L – Load Level/Core: Build and core the pile properly A – Aerate: Have a plan to cool grain and manage fans correctly M – Monitor/Maintain: Monitor CO₂, temp, tarp condition, equipment & safety Red Flags That Require Immediate Action Off-odors around fans (sour, musty, fermented)CO₂ or temperature spikesTarp loosening or wind-flappingWater pooling around the pad or under tarpsCrusting or heating at surface or sidewalls  Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

    38 min

  6. 09/30/2025

    Lower Costs, Cleaner Air, Bigger Demand: Geoff Cooper on California’s E15 Breakthrough

    Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. California is on the verge of legalizing E15 fuel for the first time after the legislature unanimously passed Assembly Bill 30. In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, talks with Geoff Cooper, President & CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), about how persistence, coalition-building, and strategy led to this milestone — and what it means for consumers, retailers, policymakers, and grain professionals. From lower costs and cleaner air to ripple effects across ethanol markets and grain demand, this conversation explores how one bill could reshape the renewable fuels landscape for decades. Geoff Cooper is President and CEO of the RFA, the leading trade association for America’s ethanol industry. Since joining RFA in 2008, he has driven market growth, shaped policy, and expanded global demand for ethanol and co-products. A former U.S. Army captain specializing in fuel logistics, Geoff has served on key advisory boards and testified before state and federal bodies. He is widely recognized as a leader in the bioeconomy and a strong advocate for sustainable fuels. Key Takeaways AB30 passed unanimously — a historic first for ethanol legislation — and includes an urgency clause to make E15 legal immediately once signed. Consumers could save ~$2.7 billion annually (about $200 per household) with E15, typically priced 10–30¢ per gallon lower than E10. Environmental benefits include reduced smog-forming emissions, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and greenhouse gases. Ethanol production is zero-waste: starch becomes fuel while protein, fat, and fiber become livestock feed. A broad coalition — retailers, farm groups, transport associations, chambers of commerce, veterans, and labor — made AB30 possible. California’s decision accelerates federal momentum for year-round E15 and influences fuel policy worldwide. Market impact: 600–700 million gallons of additional ethanol demand could require 200–250 million more bushels of corn, boosting grain handling and transport.Pull Quotes “This is the first ethanol-friendly bill to move through the California legislature with unanimous support.” “E15 delivers typical pump savings of 10–30 cents per gallon — and we’ve seen even larger discounts.” “The ethanol process today is zero-waste — starch becomes fuel, and protein, fat, and fiber become livestock feed.” “California’s move on E15 sends a signal nationwide and around the world.” Important Links & Related Episodes Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) — https://ethanolrfa.org/Fueling the Future: The Role of Renewable Fuels in the Grain Industry with RFA's Robert White E15, Ethanol and the Future of Agriculture with Emily Skor of Growth EnergyDriving Change: TheGrain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

    49 min

  7. 09/12/2025

    Right-Sizing, Reliability, and ROI — Smarter Equipment Choices for Grain Facilities

    Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. What does 50 years in the grain industry teach you about smarter equipment decisions? Today’s guest, Jeff Schwab, knows the answer firsthand. Jeff began his career at just 15 years old, working night shifts at a local mill while finishing high school. After completing a Vo-Tech program in drafting and design, he spent decades shaping the grain industry—first as a draftsman, then in sales, troubleshooting, and ultimately as a trainer and Product Specialist for GSI/Intersystems. With more than 20 years at Schlagel and another 16 at GSI, Jeff built a reputation as a trusted expert and mentor. In this episode, Jeff shares: How to avoid overspending, underspending, or overbuilding projectsWhy a modern maintenance mindset is critical for reliability and safetyCommon mistakes with bucket elevators, dual drives, and high horsepower systemsMemorable field stories where smart choices—and costly mistakes—shaped outcomesHis advice for young professionals entering the industry todayJeff also reflects on his time teaching at GEAPS/K-State Hands-On Training (HOT) for the Operation and Maintenance of Conveying Equipment program at K-State and why knowledge-sharing is the lifeblood of this industry. Whether you’re managing a facility, making equipment investments, or just starting your grain career, this conversation is packed with practical insights you can take back to your team. Reflection Questions for Discussion Use these prompts to guide personal reflection or spark a team conversation after listening: Where has your facility overspent or underspent on equipment in the past?Have you seen a project that was overbuilt or underbuilt? What was the impact?What kind of maintenance mindset does your team rely on—preventive, reactive, or somewhere in between?How does your workplace encourage knowledge-sharing between experienced employees and newer professionals?Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

    26 min

  8. 08/08/2025

    Connecting People, Building Leaders- How Scott Brittingham Champions Growth in the Grain Industry

    Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. Scott Brittingham doesn't just recruit members to GEAPS—he builds community by forging meaningful connections that last a lifetime. As the organization's top recruiter for six of the last seven years, his approach reveals profound insights about leadership, mentorship, and the future of the grain industry. Starting his journey at just 14 years old sweeping floors at his father's grain facility, Scott has accumulated over five decades of experience that he's passionate about sharing with others. Now serving as Grain Systems and Inventory Control Manager at Mountaire Farms (the fourth largest poultry grower in the country), Scott approaches recruitment not as a sales pitch but as offering a valuable tool that transforms careers. What makes his method so effective? Scott makes membership personal by asking about individual goals and challenges, then demonstrating how GEAPS provides solutions. He sends detailed information, follows up consistently, and even offers to submit applications for interested professionals. When faced with common objections like time constraints, he emphasizes flexibility. When cost concerns arise, he highlights facility memberships that allow multiple team members to benefit under one umbrella. But Scott's impact extends far beyond recruitment numbers. He's a dedicated mentor who recognizes how the industry's evolution—with more leaders emerging from management trainee programs rather than decades of hands-on experience—creates knowledge gaps that professional communities help bridge. His commitment to lifelong learning is evidenced by earning the Master Credential in Grain Operations Management (MCGOM), becoming just the 12th person worldwide with this distinction at the time. As the grain industry advances with new technologies and automation, Scott remains excited about the future and the role GEAPS plays in helping professionals stay ahead of the curve. His parting wisdom resonates with professionals at every career stage: "GEAPS is an outstanding organization and if you're a part of this industry and you're serious about growing, you definitely should belong. You'll get back tenfold anything that you put into it." What step will you take today to grow your network and help someone else find their path in this field? Explore GEAPS' professional development resources, credentialing programs, and member community at geaps.com.  Key GEAPS Links: MembershipLocal ChaptersCredentialing ProgramsOnline and On-Demand CoursesGrain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

    31 min
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About

Hosted by Jim Lenz, GEAPS’ Director of Global Education and Training, The Whole Grain Podcast shares expert insights, real-world stories, and innovative ideas shaping the future of grain handling and processing. Each episode features voices from across the industry, including GEAPS members, educators and special guests. With a growing audience spanning 94 countries, the podcasts fuels growth, innovation and connection in the grain and grain processing industries—one conversation at a time. -Subscribe on your favorite podcast app or listen at www.geaps.com/wholegrain -Learn how GEAPS can help you grow your career at www.GEAPS.com -Explore exclusive GEAPS member benefits at www.geaps.com/membership -Register for our online courses at https://www.geaps.com/training-education/online-learning/full-course-catalog/ -Connect with host Jim Lenz at james@geaps.com.

Information

  • Creator
    Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS)
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    61
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 GEAPS Whole Grain Podcast
  • Show Website
    Whole Grain