The Specialty Crop Cast

Talon Felker

Welcome to The Specialty Crop Cast on Pomes and Stones! Join us for real conversations with farmers, agribusiness owners, and industry experts as we dive into farming, products, and the business of agriculture—all from the people who know it best.

  1. Jun 18

    100 Years of the National Cherry Festival | Kat Paye

    The National Cherry Festival is celebrating 100 years, and in this episode of The Specialty Crop Cast, we sit down with Executive Director Kat Paye to explore the history, impact, and future of one of America's most iconic agricultural festivals. From its humble beginnings in Traverse City, Michigan, to becoming a world-renowned celebration of cherries, agriculture, and community, Kat shares what it takes to organize this landmark event, how the festival has evolved over the past century, and what visitors can expect during the historic 100th anniversary celebration. We also discuss the festival's connection to Michigan's cherry industry, its economic impact, volunteer efforts, and why this celebration continues to be a cornerstone of Northern Michigan. Whether you're a grower, agriculture enthusiast, festival-goer, or simply curious about the people behind one of the nation's longest-running agricultural celebrations, this episode offers an inside look at a century of tradition and the future of the National Cherry Festival. 🍒 Learn more about the National Cherry Festival:https://www.cherryfestival.org/ This episode of The Specialty Crop Cast is proudly sponsored by Nichino America. Nichino America is committed to providing innovative crop protection solutions that help growers maximize crop quality, productivity, and profitability. Their trusted portfolio of insecticides, fungicides, herbicides, and miticides helps specialty crop growers protect what matters most. Learn more about Nichino America:www.nichino.net 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow growers, industry professionals, and anyone passionate about agriculture. #SpecialtyCropCast #NationalCherryFestival #MichiganCherries

    50 min
  2. Jun 11

    Navigating The Farms Future Successfully

    What happens when it's time to pass the farm to the next generation? In this episode of the Pomes and Stones Podcast, we sit down with succession planning expert Art Littlefield to discuss one of the most important—and often most difficult—topics facing farm families today. We cover the challenges of transferring land, equipment, and management responsibilities while preserving family relationships and keeping farms viable for future generations. Whether you're actively planning a transition or just beginning to think about the future, this conversation offers valuable insights for growers of all ages.In this episode: 🍏 Why succession planning should start earlier than most growers think 🍒 Common mistakes farm families make during transitions 🚜 How to navigate conversations between generations 🌱 Fair vs. equal inheritance among farming and non-farming heirs 📈 Building a plan that protects both the farm and the family 👨‍🌾 Preparing the next generation for leadershipIf you're part of a family farm, orchard, or agricultural business, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Arthur Littlefield, MBA Farm Succession & Estate Planning Coordinator Academy Financial, Inc. – Agribusiness Services Cell: (630) 408-0110 Text: (269) 201-5480 Fax: (630) 369-3360 Art.Littlefield@academyfinancialinc.com The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. This information is not intended to be a substitute for individualized legal advice. Please consult your legal advisor regarding your specific situation. Associates of Academy Financial, Inc. are registered representatives of LPL Financial Securities and advisory offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

    49 min

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About

Welcome to The Specialty Crop Cast on Pomes and Stones! Join us for real conversations with farmers, agribusiness owners, and industry experts as we dive into farming, products, and the business of agriculture—all from the people who know it best.

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