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

  3. May 28

    The Most Frosty Spring

    A frosty spring update from the guys

    36 min

  4. May 15

    One Year Of Ag Stories!

    Join us for a special 1 year anniversary episode of the podcast with special guests from the past and future episodes!

    1h 55m

  5. May 5

    Smarter Autonomous Irrigation for Growers | Verdi Ag

    Irrigation decisions can make or break a season—and too often, growers are left guessing when and how much to water. In this episode, we sit down with Eugene and Val from Verdi to talk about how data-driven irrigation is helping growers make smarter, more efficient decisions in the field. From timing and water use to improving crop performance, this conversation breaks down what better irrigation management really looks like in modern agriculture. A big thank you to Eugene and Val from Verdi for joining the podcast and sharing their insights with growers. Learn more about Verdi and their technology here: https://www.verdi.ag/ Follow them on all socials @verdi.ag This episode is sponsored by Nichino—supporting growers with innovative crop protection solutions and trusted expertise in the field. Find out more in the link below. www.nichino.net Be sure to subscribe and follow for more conversations on farming, orchard management, irrigation, and ag technology.

    49 min

  6. Apr 25

    The Independent CCA Perspective | Kyle Kelley Cropwatch LLC

    Independent crop consulting, agronomy insight, and practical specialty crop advice are at the center of this episode of The Specialty Crop Cast with Kyle Kelley of Crop Watch LLC. As an independent CCA, Kyle shares valuable perspectives on crop scouting, decision-making, pest management, and helping growers navigate challenges with unbiased agronomic recommendations. In this conversation, we dig into what it means to be an independent Certified Crop Adviser, why trusted crop intelligence matters, and how sound agronomic decisions can impact orchard performance from season to season. Whether you grow apples, cherries, seed corn or other specialty crops, this episode is packed with insight for growers looking to make better decisions in the field. A big thank you to our sponsor, Nichino America, for supporting this episode and supporting growers with innovative crop protection solutions. 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and follow The Specialty Crop Cast, and share this episode with a fellow grower or agronomy enthusiast. Learn more about Crop Watch LLC: https://www.cropwatch.us/ #SpecialtyCropCast #CropConsulting #AgronomyPodcast

    43 min

  7. Apr 15

    Understanding Regenerative Ag for Michigan Growers

    In this episode of The Specialty Crop Cast, we sit down with Lauren to break down regenerative agriculture in Michigan and how it connects to the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP). We dive into what MAEAP is, how it functions to support farmers through environmental stewardship and risk management, and take a closer look at the new regenerative agriculture program and what it could mean for specialty crop growers. From soil health and sustainability to real-world applications in apple and cherry orchards, this conversation explores how regenerative ag is being discussed, measured, and applied across modern farming systems in Michigan. Whether you're a grower, agronomist, or just interested in the future of agriculture, this episode brings practical insight into where regenerative practices fit in today’s specialty crop industry. 👉 Be sure to like, subscribe, and follow The Specialty Crop Cast for more conversations from the field. 📲 Follow Lauren here: Instagram: laur.shaf  Facebook: Lauren Shaffner  🌱 Learn more about MAEAP: https://www.michigan.gov/mdard/environment/maeap 🎧 This episode is sponsored by Nichino America!

    1h 3m

  8. Mar 31

    Bridging the Gap Between Farm and Consumer With Kait Thornton

    In this episode of the Specialty Cropcast, we sit down with Kait Thornton to talk about bridging the gap between farmers and consumers through education, storytelling, and transparency. Kait shares her mission to reconnect people with where their food comes from and why understanding modern agriculture matters now more than ever. If you’re a grower, ag professional, or consumer who wants a closer connection to the farm, this conversation is for you. 👉 Don’t forget to like, follow, and subscribe to the Specialty Crop Cast for more conversations that connect you directly to the people shaping agriculture today. 🔗 Follow Kait Thornton on all socials @applegirlkait 🎧 Listen on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Acres TV📲 Follow us for more clips on TikTok & Instagram: @SpecialtyCropcast Huge thanks to our sponsor Nichino for support specialty crop conversations like this!

    1h 5m
See All (32)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Talon Felker
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Talon Felker
  • Show Website
    The Specialty Crop Cast

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