The Hedged Edge

RCM Ag Services

Welcome to The Hedged Edge, by RCM Ag Services where we're getting out of the field and onto the mic to bring you weekly market updates, commentary from commodity experts, and monthly interviews with the biggest names in agribusiness.

  1. 10/23/2025

    Harvest, Hedging, and History: Navigating Agricultural Markets from Grain Elevators to Futures Contracts

    In this episode of The Hedged Edge, hosts Jeff Eizenberg and Ben Hetzel dive deep into the heart of agricultural markets with special guest Fred Seamon from CME Group. As harvest challenges mount with record-breaking rainfall across the Midwest, the conversation spans centuries of market innovation—from the early days of Chicago's grain trade to cutting-edge futures contracts. Fred shares fascinating insights into the historical development of commodity exchanges, explaining how farmers went from local merchants to global market participants. The discussion explores critical topics including harvest logistics, railroad transportation, the evolving role of the USDA, and emerging market tools like the new fertilizer futures contract. Listeners will gain a rich understanding of how technological advances and market innovations continue to transform risk management for producers. Whether you're a farmer, trader, or agricultural enthusiast, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the complex ecosystem of agricultural markets, blending historical perspective with forward-looking analysis. Packed with expert commentary, practical insights, and a touch of humor, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the intricate world of commodity trading and agricultural economics. Listen on the radio at KNDC Radio https://www.kndcradio.com/ and KBJM Radio https://kbjm.com/ Watch the Hedged Edge: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ Disclaimer: This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal, business, or tax advice. All opinions expressed by podcast participants are solely their own opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of RCM Alternatives, their affiliates, or companies featured. Due to industry regulations, participants on this podcast are instructed not to make specific trade recommendations, nor reference past or potential profits. And listeners are reminded that managed futures, commodity trading, and other alternative investments are complex and carry a risk of substantial losses. As such, they are not suitable for all investors. For more information, visit www.rcmalternatives.com/disclaimer

    38 min
  2. 10/16/2025

    Global Fertilizer Markets: Supply Challenges, Trade Dynamics, and Agricultural Pricing Strategies

    Dive into the complex world of agricultural markets with Jeff Eizenberg and Ben Hetzel as they explore current corn and soybean pricing trends, harvest dynamics, and the global fertilizer landscape. Special guest Jon Berglund from Prairie Land AG provides expert insights into international supply chains, trade challenges, and the factors driving fertilizer prices. Learn about the intricate relationships between global politics, agricultural production, and market strategies that impact farmers today. Listen on the radio at KNDC Radio https://www.kndcradio.com/ and KBJM Radio https://kbjm.com/ Watch the Hedged Edge: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkfDAB4OJfR7i9N62wUKGSA Disclaimer: This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal, business, or tax advice. All opinions expressed by podcast participants are solely their own opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of RCM Alternatives, their affiliates, or companies featured. Due to industry regulations, participants on this podcast are instructed not to make specific trade recommendations, nor reference past or potential profits. And listeners are reminded that managed futures, commodity trading, and other alternative investments are complex and carry a risk of substantial losses. As such, they are not suitable for all investors. For more information, visit www.rcmalternatives.com/disclaimer

    37 min
  3. 10/09/2025

    Grain Marketing Survival Guide: Insights from the Field

    In this episode of The Hedged Edge podcast, hosts Jeff Eizenberg and Ben Hetzel discuss the current harvest season with guests Lacy Schatz from LJS Insurance Agency and Dwayne Bowman from Dakota Western Bank. They provide insights into harvest conditions across different regions, highlighting challenges like frost and dry weather. Lacey shares updates on crop insurance, including new program benefits for beginning farmers. Dwayne discusses the current interest rate environment and its minimal impact on agricultural operations. The team focuses on marketing strategies, emphasizing the importance of forward pricing, storing grain strategically, and having a comprehensive plan to manage market risks. They also address the mental health challenges farmers may face during difficult economic times and encourage producers to seek support and collaborate with their professional team. The episode offers practical advice for farmers navigating the complex agricultural marketplace, with a strong message of proactive planning and teamwork. Episode links:  Listen on the radio at KNDC Radio https://www.kndcradio.com/ and KBJM Radio  https://kbjm.com/Hedged Edge: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkfDAB4OJfR7i9N62wUKGSA Disclaimer: This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal, business, or tax advice. All opinions expressed by podcast participants are solely their own opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of RCM Alternatives, their affiliates, or companies featured. Due to industry regulations, participants on this podcast are instructed not to make specific trade recommendations, nor reference past or potential profits. And listeners are reminded that managed futures, commodity trading, and other alternative investments are complex and carry a risk of substantial losses. As such, they are not suitable for all investors. For more information, visit www.rcmalternatives.com/disclaimer

    35 min
  4. 09/25/2025

    Convenience vs. Cost: Navigating Agricultural Markets, Convenience, and Consumer Spending

    Join Jeff Eizenberg and Ben Hetzel as they dive deep into the complex world of agricultural markets, consumer spending, and the surprising economics of convenience. In this eye-opening episode, they challenge the narrative of high food prices by exploring the booming delivery service industry and questioning whether consumers are truly feeling the pinch. From DoorDash delivery fees to wheat market strategies, the hosts break down the nuances of agricultural economics with their signature blend of humor and expertise. Learn why "hope is not a strategy" and discover insights into market risk management, harvest expectations, and the evolving landscape of food production and consumption. Whether you're a farmer, agribusiness professional, or simply curious about the economics of food, this episode offers valuable perspectives that will change how you think about pricing, convenience, and market dynamics. Episode links: Listen on the radio at KNDC Radio https://www.kndcradio.com/ and KBJM Radio https://kbjm.com/Hedged Edge: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkfDAB4OJfR7i9N62wUKGSA And last but not least, don't forget to subscribe to The Hedged Edge on your preferred platform, and follow us on Twitter @ag_rcm https://twitter.com/ag_rcm, LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/2878..., and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RCMAgServices. Disclaimer: This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal, business, or tax advice. All opinions expressed by podcast participants are solely their own opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of RCM Alternatives, their affiliates, or companies featured. Due to industry regulations, participants on this podcast are instructed not to make specific trade recommendations, nor reference past or potential profits. And listeners are reminded that managed futures, commodity trading, and other alternative investments are complex and carry a risk of substantial losses. As such, they are not suitable for all investors. For more information, visit www.rcmalternatives.com/disclaimer

    40 min
  5. 09/18/2025

    Quality or Quantity: Keeping Mexico as a Key US Grain Buyer

    This episode of "The Hedged Edge" explores the critical challenges facing US grain exports, focusing on wheat quality and Mexico's market dynamics. Hosts Jeff Eizenberg and Ben Hetzel, joined by David Munoz from Bartlett Grain, discuss the USDA report, global grain trade complexities, and the potential risks of losing Mexico as a key buyer due toinconsistent wheat quality. The episode provides insights into transportation logistics, international competition, and strategies for maintaining competitive grain exports in a challenging global market. Episode links: Listen on the radio at KNDC Radio https://www.kndcradio.com/ and KBJM Radio https://kbjm.com/Hedged Edge: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkfDAB4OJfR7i9N62wUKGSAAnd last but not least, don't forget to subscribe to The Hedged Edge on your preferred platform, and follow us on Twitter @ag_rcm https://twitter.com/ag_rcm, LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/2878..., and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RCMAgServices. Disclaimer: This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal, business, or tax advice. All opinions expressed by podcast participants are solely their own opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of RCM Alternatives, their affiliates, or companies featured. Due to industry regulations, participants on this podcast are instructed not to make specific trade recommendations, nor reference past or potential profits. And listeners are reminded that managed futures, commodity trading, and other alternative investments are complex and carry a risk of substantial losses. As such, they are not suitable for all investors. For more information, visit www.rcmalternatives.com/disclaimer

    33 min
  6. 09/10/2025

    Bulls, Bears, and Beef: Risk Management When Prices Run Hot

    Cattle markets are at multi-decade highs, and producers are facing both incredible opportunities and serious risks. In this first radio edition of The Hedged Edge, hosts Jeff Eizenberg and Ben Hetzel dig into the realities of managing cattle riskwhen prices are running hot. Joining the conversation are Dwayne Bowman, President of Dakota Western Bank, and Joe McKitrick, a North Dakota rancher, who share their perspectives on: -Why tight cattle supplies are driving record highs. -The risks of inflation, feed costs, and consumer“trade-down.” -How bankers and ranchers view tools like LRP, futures,options, and forward contracts. -Opportunities in feed, grain, and basis markets acrossthe Northern Plains. -Why communication and discipline are critical in today’scattle market. Whether you’re a rancher, banker, or market watcher, this episode will give you a practical look at how to navigate risk — and why now may be the most important time to have amarketing plan in place.Episode links:Listen on the radio at KNDC Radio https://www.kndcradio.com/ and KBJM Radio https://kbjm.com/Hedged Edge: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkfDAB4OJfR7i9N62wUKGSAAnd last but not least, don't forget to subscribe to The Hedged Edge on your preferred platform, and follow us on Twitter @ag_rcm https://twitter.com/ag_rcm, LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/2878..., and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RCMAgServices.Disclaimer: This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal, business, or tax advice. All opinions expressed by podcast participants are solely their own opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of RCM Alternatives, their affiliates, or companies featured. Due to industry regulations, participants on this podcast are instructed not to make specific trade recommendations, nor reference past or potential profits. And listeners are reminded that managed futures, commodity trading, and other alternative investments are complex and carry a risk of substantial losses. As such, they are not suitable for all investors. For more information, visit www.rcmalternatives.com/disclaimer

    40 min
  7. 02/02/2023

    Old & New Crop Risk Management Strategies & 2023 Market Outlook

    As we start 2023 – the stakes could not be higher for the agriculture sector! The world population is growing rapidly, crossing 8 Billion in November of last year. Due to the historic drought and war, there are lower stocks of the major grain supplies globally.   Energy and interest rates have accelerated rapidly vs. this time last year, leading to higher input costs and raising the break-even levels for farmers and end users to unprecedented levels…plus there is still a war going on.   To help give us some insight and answers to what lies ahead, we’re lucky to have two highly respected panelists with us today from both the banking and commodity risk management sides of the business; Rebecca King, Old National’s Agriculture Group, and Jody Lawrence, RCM Ag Services. Webinar links: Hedged Edge: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkfDAB4OJfR7i9N62wUKGSA Old National Website: https://www.oldnational.com/business/ RCM Ag blog: https://rcmagservices.com/rcm-ag-services-blog/ “What it Takes to Feed the World” Infographic: https://rcmagservices.com/what-it-takes-to-feed-the-world/ And last but not least, don't forget to subscribe to The Hedged Edge on your preferred platform, and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. Disclaimer: This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal, business, or tax advice. All opinions expressed by podcast participants are solely their own opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of RCM Ag Services, their affiliates, or companies featured. Due to industry regulations, participants on this podcast are instructed not to make specific trade recommendations, nor reference past or potential profits. And listeners are reminded that managed futures, commodity trading, and other alternative investments are complex and carry a risk of substantial losses. As such, they are not suitable for all investors. For more information, visit www.rcmalternatives.com/disclaimer

    1h 21m

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Hedged Edge, by RCM Ag Services where we're getting out of the field and onto the mic to bring you weekly market updates, commentary from commodity experts, and monthly interviews with the biggest names in agribusiness.