Farm4Profit Podcast

David Whitaker, Corey Hillebo, Tanner Winterhof

Our mission is to provide farms and operators an independent and unbiased outlet for information related to increasing the profitability of their farming operation. We will be providing farms and operators of all sizes and experience levels access to the latest trends, projections, and the tools necessary to increase farming profitability. We will take each episode to deliver latest news, what's working for active farms, and a topic of focus each episode. Remember, if you aren't farming for profit you won't be farming for long.

  1. From Shop Houses to Farm Shops: No One Ever Built Too Big!

    1일 전

    From Shop Houses to Farm Shops: No One Ever Built Too Big!

    In this Farm4Profit episode, the crew sits down with Randy Marcks, Sukup Steel Buildings expert, to discuss the evolution of steel structures in modern agriculture and how smart planning leads to stronger, more efficient operations. Steel buildings aren’t just about durability—they’re about design precision, longevity, and adaptability. Randy walks us through Sukup’s building innovations—from I-beam structural corners and Galvalume+ steel panels, to factory-welded clips and pre-punched components that make installation faster and more accurate. But before the first bolt goes in, Randy emphasizes what farmers should consider: Future use planning: Think beyond today—design for changing equipment or livestock needs. Size and layout: Bigger isn’t always better; right-sized buildings drive efficiency and cost control. Site prep and foundation: Proper grading, compaction, and soil testing save years of drainage headaches. Budgeting beyond the kit: Include labor, electrical, insulation, and ventilation. Building codes & permits: Stay compliant and avoid costly rework. Listeners will learn why steel buildings outperform wood—handling higher wind loads, resisting termites and rot, and maintaining clear spans up to 200 feet for wide, open workspaces. Sukup’s IAS AC472 accreditation ensures every building meets the highest quality and safety standards. Randy also digs into why roof and wall panel design matter more than most people realize: mechanically rolled standing seams with a 360° Pittsburgh double-lock prevent leaks, and movable clips let panels expand and contract with temperature swings—protecting your investment from the elements for decades. 🧠 Key TakeawaysPlan with purpose — A smart build starts with site prep, future needs, and full-cost budgeting. Steel wins the long game — Stronger spans, higher durability, no rot, and recyclable value at teardown. Details matter — Panel design, insulation, and airflow determine building lifespan and comfort. Sukup quality = Iowa pride — Family-owned innovation, automation, and precision manufacturing deliver farm-tough reliability. Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today! https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/   Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!  Website: www.Farm4Profit.com Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com Call/Text: 515.207.9640 Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc  Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    45분
  2. Farming in the Fast Lane: Kyle Kirkwood - Ag's Connection to IndyCar

    5일 전

    Farming in the Fast Lane: Kyle Kirkwood - Ag's Connection to IndyCar

    In this high-octane Farm4Profit episode, the team welcomes Kyle Kirkwood, one of the brightest young stars in the NTT INDYCAR Series, to explore how agriculture fuels racing’s future—literally. Kyle, who pilots the #27 car for Andretti Global, shares his journey from a five-year-old discovering jet cars at Moroso Motorsports Park to standing on the podium at Long Beach and Bommarito in 2025. We dive into Kyle’s personal story—his love for deep-sea fishing, surfing, and staying fit—and then turn toward the intersection of farming, fuel, and fast cars. The conversation highlights his partnership with Sukup Manufacturing and what it means to represent a company rooted in American agriculture at the Iowa Speedway, where corn isn’t just grown—it powers the race itself. Topics Covered: The Making of a Champion: How Kyle’s early karting success and Road to Indy dominance prepared him for the big leagues. Inside Andretti Global: A look at the legendary team’s legacy, innovation, and culture of excellence. Ag Meets IndyCar: The story behind Sukup’s sponsorship and why agricultural brands are increasingly visible in motorsports. Ethanol Power: Kyle explains how E85 ethanol-based fuel enhances car performance and efficiency, and why it’s both a renewable and high-performance solution. Shared Values: The parallels between racing and farming—precision, data-driven decision-making, and the pursuit of efficiency. Future of the Sport: How technology, sustainability, and partnerships like Sukup’s are driving the next chapter of racing innovation. Listeners get a unique peek into the mindset of a professional racer who’s not just chasing checkered flags, but also celebrating the partnership between the track and the tractor. Whether you’re a farmer, gearhead, or ethanol advocate, this episode connects the roar of the engine to the roots of rural America. Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today! https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/   Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!  Website: www.Farm4Profit.com Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com Call/Text: 515.207.9640 Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc  Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    34분
  3. Farm Machinery Marketcheck:  What’s Hot & What's Not

    11월 3일

    Farm Machinery Marketcheck: What’s Hot & What's Not

    In this timely market update, DPA’s Luke Stamp joins Farm4Profit to break down the state of the farm equipment marketplace as we move through Fall 2025. Luke opens with a direct comparison to this time last year — sales volume, auction activity, and market strength — then drills into the big-picture factors shaping demand: bankruptcies and liquidations, dealership consolidation, macroeconomic drivers (interest rates and finance availability), and geopolitical influences like trade with China and global instability. Key topics covered: • Year-over-Year Market Snapshot — Did 2025 see more or fewer sales than 2024? Luke shares DPA’s internal data, highlights where activity has increased or slowed, and explains the seasonal rhythms buyers and sellers should expect. • Who’s Selling & Who’s Buying — From operators and custom harvesters to dealerships, auction consignors, and investors — Luke outlines the typical seller and buyer profiles this year and how those groups have shifted. • Dealership Consolidation — Are dealers consolidating inventory and market share? We discuss trends in dealer-to-dealer buying, trade-in flows, and how consolidation changes local market dynamics. • Macro & Policy Influences — How (and whether) Farm Bill chatter, China relations, and the war in Ukraine filter into equipment pricing and buyer confidence. Luke explains which global headlines actually move markets and which mostly create noise. • New Equipment vs. Used Market — What’s happening with new equipment demand, lead times, and ordering? Then, how that reverberates into the used market — which models are sought-after and which are being traded in. • Hot Items & Laggards — Specific categories Luke sees strong demand for (e.g., certain sprayer platforms, high-horsepower tractors, specific planter or tillage technology) and what’s not moving (older, high-hours, or hard-to-service models). We call out examples like quad-tracks, JD 1000-series, specialty harvest equipment, and where buyer interest is concentrated. • Seller Best Practices — When sellers do well, it’s rarely luck. Luke shares tactics that set successful sales apart: timing, pre-sale preparation, clear maintenance records, realistic reserves, and effective marketing. • Advice for Buyers — Luke flips the script with actionable tips: where to find best deals, when to act, and how to evaluate lots to avoid costly surprises. • Winter 2026 Outlook & Predictions — Closing with a forward look, Luke gives his educated read on what the winter market may bring, including expected demand shifts, pricing pressure zones, and what listeners should track between now and spring. Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today! https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/   Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!  Website: www.Farm4Profit.com Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com Call/Text: 515.207.9640 Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc  Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    45분
  4. Ranching with a Purpose : Luke & Natalie Kovarik

    10월 30일

    Ranching with a Purpose : Luke & Natalie Kovarik

    This episode explores the grit, growth, and grace behind building a successful ranch from the ground up. Luke and Natalie share how they turned a shared dream into a working legacy—growing from a small commercial herd to a nationally recognized registered Angus operation known for elite genetics and a customer-first mindset. We dive into: The early years—from purchasing their first commercial cows to flushing embryos and selling top-tier bulls. The business evolution—including their first online bull sale in 2021 and the move to their first live auction in 2024, which featured the $150,000 high-selling LT Talent bull. Faith and family balance—how they juggle running a ranch, raising three kids (Tad, Jaks, and Rue), and staying grounded in what matters most. Natalie’s journey from pharmacy to ag advocacy, building an online platform that reaches over 200,000 followers across Instagram, TikTok, and podcasting. Luke’s focus on genetics, performance, and sustainability, emphasizing that profitability and maternal strength go hand-in-hand. Their vision for the future, from expanding their herd to mentoring the next generation of producers and continuing to grow the ranch’s reputation for quality and integrity. Listeners will also get a behind-the-scenes look at how Kovarik Cattle Co uses AI, embryo transfer, and genomic testing to stay on the cutting edge, while keeping family and faith at the heart of every decision. 🧭 Key TakeawaysSuccess in ranching takes faith, patience, and partnership—not just cattle. Start small, but start right—every big legacy begins with one bold decision. The power of storytelling in agriculture can connect communities and inspire future producers. Combining science and sustainability keeps the operation profitable and purpose-driven. Building something meaningful means embracing both tradition and technology. Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today! https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/   Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!  Website: www.Farm4Profit.com Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com Call/Text: 515.207.9640 Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc  Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    58분
  5. From Gut Feel to Game Plan : How to Make Every Dollar Count in 2025

    10월 27일

    From Gut Feel to Game Plan : How to Make Every Dollar Count in 2025

    “Navigating Tight Margins with Financial Mastery” dives straight into the realities of today’s ag economy. Grant Wiese joins the Farm4Profit crew to unpack how producers can manage risk, make data-backed marketing decisions, and plan for the future—even when margins are razor thin. Listeners will hear how knowing your true cost of production can transform decision-making. Many farmers can quote a yield goal, but few know their exact breakeven per acre. Grant explains why that’s dangerous, especially when a small swing in grain price—say, $4.25 vs. $4.75 corn—can make or break profitability. We explore: What separates top-performing farms from the rest: discipline, review frequency, and financial clarity. The tools and tactics that make cost tracking doable, not daunting—like Farm 640’s break-even calculators, enterprise analysis, and scenario planning tools. How to decide whether an input (like fungicide) is worth it—or if it’s better to pocket the margin. Strategies for 2026 planning, especially for those facing lender pressure or uncertain financing. Grant also addresses one of the most overlooked challenges in ag finances: family living costs. Are they still silently eating into farm cash flow? And how can farmers balance growth and survival when every acre and dollar count? 🌾 Key Takeaways“You can’t afford not to know your numbers.” Track cost per acre, per bushel, and per enterprise—not just yield. Use real ROI data to guide every major decision. Revisit numbers monthly, not just at year-end. Balance ambition with financial stability—growth should build equity, not just acres. 🎁 Special GiveawayGrant is offering an exclusive Cash Flow+ Giveaway—a tool worth $8,000 designed to help farmers take control of their financial future. 👉 To enter, visit farm640.com and complete the simple form under “Giveaway | Farm640.” Entries close one week after this episode airs. 💬 Call to ActionLearn more at farm640.com and check out the Farm Buying Toolbox to start mastering your numbers today. Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today! https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/   Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!  Website: www.Farm4Profit.com Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com Call/Text: 515.207.9640 Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc  Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    49분
  6. From Dairy Barns to Lambs & Soil Science: Andrew Luzum Balances Farming and Innovation

    10월 23일

    From Dairy Barns to Lambs & Soil Science: Andrew Luzum Balances Farming and Innovation

    Andrew Luzum—a farmer, conservation advocate, and strategic agronomist—to explore how traditional values and modern innovation can work hand in hand to sustain agriculture for generations to come. Andrew shares how his family operation, rooted near a trout hatchery in Winneshiek County, has made water quality and environmental responsibility central to their mission. Knowing that their farm directly impacts local waterways, Andrew emphasizes a personal commitment to stewardship: “We have a tremendous influence on the quality of water that comes out of those springs, and I feel a responsibility to do my part.” We also dive into Andrew’s professional journey with Corteva Agriscience, where he’s spent nearly a decade advancing through roles in crop protection, territory management, and now as a Nutrient Maximizer Strategic Account Manager. He explains how this role supports farmers in optimizing fertility efficiency, improving return on investment, and protecting soil health through science-based solutions. Listeners will hear about: How Andrew’s upbringing on a diverse dairy and livestock farm shaped his leadership style and work ethic. His experience experimenting with cover crops and the lessons learned from integrating them into a working cow-calf and row-crop system. The link between data-driven agronomy and environmental outcomes, and how Corteva’s nutrient maximizer tools are helping farms do more with less. His perspective as an Iowa Corn Animal Agriculture and Environment Committee member—bridging farmers, science, and policy. The episode closes with a reflection on what “profit” really means in modern agriculture: not just financial returns, but long-term resilience, cleaner water, and stronger rural communities. Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today! https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/   Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!  Website: www.Farm4Profit.com Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com Call/Text: 515.207.9640 Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc  Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1시간
  7. Smart Planning, Big Yields: Champions and the Science Behind Their Success

    10월 20일

    Smart Planning, Big Yields: Champions and the Science Behind Their Success

    Alex Noll, a farmer whose operation has earned national recognition for both corn and wheat yields, shares how he achieved a remarkable 340.39 bu/acre corn yield and consistent top finishes in dryland wheat. Alex explains his crop rotation strategy—especially how following wheat can boost corn and soybean yields by 5–8% and grain sorghum by nearly 30 bu/acre in dry conditions—and how he balances contest-level ambition with economic reality. Matt, another Kansas producer, joins the conversation to highlight the practical side of yield pursuit: evaluating inputs by “yield-per-dollar,” tracking field data, and using AgXplore tools to guide smarter investments. Representing AgXplore, Jenna breaks down the agronomic science behind products like GroPak AI, Architech, Onward Max, and XR5 Sulfur, explaining how they enhance nutrient uptake, stress tolerance, and root vigor in clear, farmer-friendly terms. She also discusses how AgXplore’s reps and data platforms help farmers evaluate ROI and build customized fertility programs tailored to their operations. Together, the group explores: When to invest and when to hold back—and how to make that call using real data. How contest-level practices can inform everyday farming decisions without breaking the bank. Balancing high yields with soil and biological health, ensuring long-term sustainability. Planning for 2026, from refining rotations to leveraging field trials and digital tools for next season’s edge. This episode is a blueprint for farmers looking to elevate their yield game—grounded in practical experience, data-driven decisions, and the support of agronomic partners who understand that profit isn’t just about bushels, it’s about balance. Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today! https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/   Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!  Website: www.Farm4Profit.com Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com Call/Text: 515.207.9640 Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc  Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1시간 4분
  8. The Blueprint for Great Wine: Farming with Heart and Precision

    10월 16일

    The Blueprint for Great Wine: Farming with Heart and Precision

    The Farm4Profit Podcast heads to California wine country for a two-part series highlighting the remarkable people shaping the legacy and future of Sonoma County Winegrowers. In Part 1, Dan Rotlisberger—fifth-generation farmer and Vineyard Manager at Robert Young Estate Vineyards—shares how his family’s operation evolved from diverse orchards to one of Alexander Valley’s most respected vineyards. He discusses the heritage of Sonoma County farming, the transition from prunes to grapes, and the enduring commitment to sustainability and soil stewardship. With over 14 years of professional vineyard management experience, Dan also touches on how education, mentorship, and local collaboration keep Sonoma at the forefront of responsible viticulture. In Part 2, listeners meet Kris Hicks, Vineyard Manager for Vimark Vineyard Management and Trione Vineyards & Winery. Kris’s unconventional journey—from construction and concrete work to vineyard leadership—embodies what it means to grow through grit and curiosity. He shares stories of mentorship under longtime vineyard legend John Tankersley, his philosophy of farming alongside his crew, and the techniques he employs—water conservation, cover crops, integrated pest management—to farm profitably while leaving the smallest environmental footprint possible. Across both episodes, listeners gain insights into: How multi-generational family farms adapt across decades of change. The parallels between Sonoma’s sustainability goals and the Midwest’s regenerative agriculture movement. The mindset of vineyard managers who balance heritage, quality, and innovation. The personal stories that keep family farming—and the passion for the land—alive. From Dan’s century-old family farm to Kris’s craftsmanship in every vine, these episodes reveal that farming excellence is both art and science—no matter the crop or coast. Want Farm4Profit Merch?  Custom order your favorite items today! https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/   Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!  Website: www.Farm4Profit.com Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com Email address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.com Call/Text: 515.207.9640 Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5Xqw Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc  Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    58분
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Our mission is to provide farms and operators an independent and unbiased outlet for information related to increasing the profitability of their farming operation. We will be providing farms and operators of all sizes and experience levels access to the latest trends, projections, and the tools necessary to increase farming profitability. We will take each episode to deliver latest news, what's working for active farms, and a topic of focus each episode. Remember, if you aren't farming for profit you won't be farming for long.

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