Collective Impact - Leading Agriculture's Future

Collective Impact
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The Collective Impact Podcast shares conversations and insights from across the agricultural landscape, exploring the many dimensions of regenerative agriculture. From production practices to markets and decision-making, it looks at how different pieces come together on farms today and as well as into the future. 

Episodes

  1. 3d ago

    Episode 6 Getting to Know Nature United: People, Partnerships & Prairie Agriculture Featuring Les Fuller, Leah Blechschmidt & Warren McAuley

    In this episode, we sit down with three members of Nature United’s agriculture team: Les Fuller — Agriculture Strategy DirectorLeah Blechschmidt — Corporate Engagement Advisor, AgricultureWarren McAuley — Prairies Agriculture Program ManagerWe begin by getting to know Les, Leah, and Warren, exploring the experiences that brought them into agriculture and ultimately to Nature United. They share some of the projects, conversations, and lessons that have shaped how they think about agriculture today, as well as why listening to producers is such an important part of developing programs that work in the real world. The conversation then turns to Nature United’s vision for agriculture on the Canadian Prairies and the importance of pursuing productivity, profitability, and ecological resilience together. We discuss some of the biggest barriers producers face when considering sustainable and regenerative practices, including financial risk, and why collaboration between producers, industry, governments, researchers, agronomists, and other trusted advisors is critical to creating lasting change. A major focus of the episode is the Model Farm Network, a partnership between Nature United and Collective Impact. Les, Leah, and Warren discuss why the network was created, what makes it different from traditional research and sustainability programs, and what has been learned since its launch in Saskatchewan and expansion into Manitoba. We also explore the value of testing practices under real farm conditions and why producer-to-producer learning can be such a powerful tool for building confidence in new approaches. We broaden the conversation to discuss Natural Climate Solutions, emerging agricultural innovations, trusted advisors, and the relationship between sustainability and farm profitability. Our guests share their perspectives on what these ideas mean for grain and livestock producers and how practical, producer-focused approaches can help accelerate adoption. Finally, we look to the future—what success could look like for the Model Farm Network and Nature United’s agriculture work over the next five years, what excites our guests about the next generation of Canadian producers, and the misconceptions about sustainable and regenerative agriculture they hope to change. It’s a conversation about the people, partnerships, and practical solutions helping shape a more productive, profitable, and resilient future for agriculture on the Canadian Prairies.

  2. Aug 5

    Episode 5 Practical Research for Real Farms with Collective Impact's Research & Agronomy Lead Emily Faye

    How do you decide which research questions are worth pursuing? What makes field-scale research so valuable? And how can producers use the results to improve decision-making on their own farms? In this episode, we speak with Emily Faye, Research & Agronomy Lead at Collective Impact, about the organization's practical approach to agricultural research and regenerative agriculture. Emily discusses how Collective Impact works with producers, researchers, and industry partners to identify real-world challenges, develop meaningful research trials, and translate findings into practical knowledge that producers can apply with confidence.  The conversation covers:  Emily's journey into agronomy and agricultural research.  How Collective Impact develops its annual research program.  Highlights from this season's field-scale trials.  The importance of producer-driven research.  Why practical, on-farm trials complement traditional research.  How research results are shared through field days, reports, workshops, and demonstrations.  Emerging opportunities and future research priorities in regenerative agriculture.  Advice for producers interested in participating in research or adopting new practices. Whether you're a producer, agronomist, researcher, or simply interested in the future of regenerative agriculture, this episode provides an inside look at how practical, collaborative research is helping move agriculture forward—one field at a time.

  3. Apr 27

    Episode 4 The Trusted Advisor Partnership Featuring Luke Struckman, Regan Ferguson & Shawn Catherwood

    In this episode, we sit down with the facilitators and creators behind the Trusted Advisor Partnership (TAP) program—a forward-thinking initiative designed to equip agriculture professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to lead in soil health and regenerative agriculture. We dig into the origins of TAP and the gap it was built to fill, exploring why empowering trusted advisors—agronomists, consultants, and industry professionals—is critical to driving meaningful change on the farm. The conversation unpacks what the program actually looks like in practice, from its blend of science-based learning and real-world application to how participants engage with both foundational principles and cutting-edge agronomic strategies. You’ll hear a breakdown of the course structure, what participants can expect throughout the program, and how TAP balances technical depth with practical, field-level relevance. We also look ahead to the future of the program—how it plans to evolve alongside the rapidly changing sustainability landscape—and who stands to benefit most from being involved. Finally, we explore what long-term success looks like: not just for the individuals who take part, but for the broader agricultural system. From stronger advisor-producer relationships to measurable improvements in soil health and farm resilience, TAP is aiming to create lasting impact where it matters most. Whether you’re an agronomist, retailer, consultant, or simply interested in the future of sustainable agriculture, this episode offers a grounded, insightful look at a program built to move the industry forward.

  4. Mar 8

    Episode 3 The Power of Cover Crops Featuring Kevin Elmy & Dakota Odgers

    In this episode of the Collective Impact Podcast were joined by Kevin Elmy of Cover Crops Canada & Imperial Seed and Dakota Odgers of Covers & Co.  We dive deep into the growing role of cover crops in modern agriculture and why more producers are beginning to see them as a cornerstone of resilient farming systems. From improving soil health to strengthening farm economics, cover crops offer benefits that extend well beyond the field. We explore how cover crops help build healthier soils by increasing organic matter, improving soil structure, enhancing water infiltration, and supporting diverse microbial communities. Healthier soils not only improve productivity but also make fields more resilient to drought and extreme weather. The conversation also examines how well-managed cover crops can naturally reduce weed and disease pressure. By occupying the soil surface, competing for nutrients, and supporting beneficial soil biology, cover crops can interrupt pest cycles and reduce reliance on herbicides and other inputs. For mixed farms and livestock producers, cover crops can also serve as high-quality forage, providing nutritious grazing options while extending the grazing season and lowering feed costs. Integrating livestock into cover crop systems can further accelerate nutrient cycling and soil regeneration. Beyond the agronomic benefits, we discuss the economic case for cover crops. While there is an upfront investment in seed and management, many producers are seeing returns through reduced input costs, improved yields over time, and additional revenue opportunities such as grazing. Finally, the episode breaks down how to choose the right cover crop blends. We look at key considerations including farm goals, climate and moisture conditions, soil type, crop rotation, seeding windows, and whether the crop will be grazed. Choosing the right mix of species—grasses, legumes, and broadleaf plants—can help producers maximize soil benefits while meeting their operational needs. Whether you're new to cover crops or looking to refine your strategy, this episode offers practical insights into how they can strengthen both soil health and farm profitability.

  5. Feb 9

    Episode 2 Focusing on Technology in Regenerative Agriculture Featuring Damon Johnson

    In this episode of the Collective Impact Podcast, Damon Johnson joins us to dive into the rapidly evolving world of technology in regenerative agriculture. From on-farm data collection tools and remote sensing to digital platforms and precision equipment, we explore how technology is reshaping the way producers measure, manage, and improve their operations. We also unpack the growing role of ag tech and insurance companies in the regenerative space—how data is being used to reduce risk, verify outcomes, and unlock new program opportunities. What does this mean for producers? How can farmers ensure the data they’re generating works for them? And where is this intersection of technology, insurance, and sustainability headed next? If you’re curious about how innovation is influencing real on-farm decisions—and what it means for the future of regenerative agriculture—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

  6. Jan 9

    Episode 1 Featuring Collective Impact's co-founders Michael Ferguson and Derek Squair

    In the first episode of the Collective Impact Podcast, co-founders Derek Squair and Michael Ferguson share the story behind why Collective Impact was created and what continues to drive the work today. They reflect on what matters most to them personally and professionally, discuss the current state of regenerative agriculture, and explore where they see both regenerative ag and Collective Impact heading in the years ahead.

  • 6 Episodes

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The Collective Impact Podcast shares conversations and insights from across the agricultural landscape, exploring the many dimensions of regenerative agriculture. From production practices to markets and decision-making, it looks at how different pieces come together on farms today and as well as into the future. 

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