Wheat's On Your Mind

Kansas Wheat Commission
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Wheat's on Your Mind is the go-to podcast for anyone involved in the wheat industry, from farmers and agronomists to grain marketers and researchers. Hosted by Kansas Wheat's Aaron Harries, this podcast covers everything you need to know about wheat—from the latest market trends and technological advancements to practical tips on crop management and sustainability. Each episode offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing wheat producers, helping you stay informed and ahead of the curve. Whether you're in the field or behind a desk, Wheat's on Your Mind delivers the knowledge you need to succeed in the world of wheat.

  1. New Leadership for Wheat’s Next Chapter - WOYM

    1D AGO

    New Leadership for Wheat’s Next Chapter - WOYM

    Mike Spier, the new president and CEO of U.S. Wheat Associates, joins Aaron Harries and Justin Gilpin to talk about the relationships, strategy, and boots-on-the-ground work behind U.S. wheat exports. Spier shares how his career took him from the West Coast grain trade to overseas posts in Egypt, the Philippines, and Singapore, and how those experiences shaped his view of global wheat demand, trade shifts, and customer trust. The conversation covers strong hard red winter wheat export sales, the rise of private flour mills in markets like Egypt and Indonesia, new opportunities in places such as Bangladesh and Latin America, and how added USDA export promotion funding can help U.S. Wheat Associates expand staff, technical support, and market development. It is a timely look at why long-term relationships, farmer voices, and smart investment still matter in an increasingly competitive global wheat market. Top 10 takeaways Mike Spier brings deep overseas and merchandising experience into the top U.S. Wheat Associates role. U.S. Wheat’s long-term relationships remain one of its biggest competitive advantages. Global wheat trade has shifted from government buying toward privatized milling and more technical engagement. Hard red winter wheat has been a major driver of improved export sales this marketing year. Increased USDA promotion funding gives U.S. Wheat room to expand staff and try more ambitious market-development efforts. Bangladesh stands out as a meaningful growth market for U.S. wheat. U.S. Wheat publicly announced a multiyear 700,000-metric-ton annual commitment. Consumer-facing campaigns may become more important as wheat misinformation spreads online. Logistics still matter: freight, rail competition, and landed cost all shape whether U.S. wheat wins business. Sustainability matters to buyers, but wheat customers often want credible data before they want formal certification. Farmer voices are still powerful in export markets because customers trust firsthand production perspectives. Detailed Timestamped Rundown 00:02–00:46 Aaron Harries opens the episode, introduces Wheat’s On Your Mind, and welcomes Mike Spier, newly installed president and CEO of U.S. Wheat Associates, with Justin Gilpin joining the conversation.00:46–01:55 Spier outlines his career path: starting in the grain trade, joining U.S. Wheat Associates in Portland, and later serving in overseas offices including Cairo, Manila, and Singapore.01:55–02:44 He reflects on how overseas work was never the original plan, but became a defining part of his career and his passion for representing U.S. wheat farmers abroad.02:44–03:09 Spier notes that U.S. Wheat Associates has 13 overseas offices and three U.S. offices: Portland, Arlington, and Manhattan. U.S. Wheat’s staff directory confirms Mike Spier as president and CEO and lists those major offices.02:57–03:12 The group highlights milestone anniversaries for the Tokyo and Taipei offices, underscoring the long-term relationships U.S. Wheat has built with overseas customers.03:12–05:22 Justin asks about mentors who shaped Spier’s career. Spier points to John Odes and Dick Prower as especially influential in teaching him both wheat marketing and the realities of working overseas.05:22–07:25 The conversation turns to the changing global wheat trade. Spier explains how markets such as Egypt and Indonesia shifted from government buying toward privatized milling systems, creating more need for technical training and relationship-based market development.07:25–09:13 Spier shares his early priorities as CEO: strengthen relationships, expand exports and market share, drive innovation, improve producer outreach, and make better use of new USDA funding.09:13–10:55 He details staffing changes, including new technical and consulting roles in Brazil, Italy, Casablanca, Singapore, Mexico City, and the Philippines, plus communications support. U.S. Wheat’s current public materials and staff directory reflect the organization’s global structure and leadership team.10:55–12:59 The group discusses misinformation about wheat and consumer perception. Spier says U.S. Wheat is looking at more consumption-focused campaigns in key markets, building on work in the Philippines and exploring similar efforts elsewhere.12:59–14:31 Spier says export sales are up year over year, with hard red winter wheat accounting for much of the improvement, even as competition intensifies from Argentina, Canada, Australia, and Russia.14:31–15:33 They talk about wheat’s diversified customer base and how that gives the industry resilience compared with commodities that depend heavily on just a few markets.15:13–16:18 Spier credits grower groups and wheat organizations for advocating increased MAP and FMD funding, and says the additional support will allow more activity, more innovation, and more strategic risk-taking overseas. USDA’s export market development programs continue to underpin cooperator efforts, while U.S. Wheat has said recent agreements and outreach are helping expand demand.16:18–18:14 The discussion shifts to emerging opportunities, including aquaculture feed in Central and South America and the Bangladesh market. U.S. Wheat announced a Bangladesh commitment of 700,000 metric tons annually, aligning with what Spier describes in the episode.18:14–20:21 Logistics comes into focus, including ocean freight, landed price, and rail competition. Justin raises concerns about freight and transportation costs that ultimately hit wheat farmers’ returns.20:21–21:45 They address sustainability. Spier says wheat buyers generally want science-based information more than formal certification, though some customers do require more detailed documentation.21:45–23:49 The value of farmer leadership takes center stage. Spier explains why hearing directly from growers makes a stronger impression on customers than hearing the same message only from staff.23:49–24:53 Spier recaps a recent trip to Washington, D.C., saying he came away encouraged by support for U.S. wheat farmers and by momentum around programs like Food for Peace.24:53–25:54 The episode closes with optimism about the year ahead, an invitation to future U.S. Wheat meetings in Manhattan, and a brief salute to retiring Kansas wheat leader Cindy Falk. Kansas WheatWheatsOnYorMind.com

    26 min
  2. The Farm Impact of World Conflict - WOYM

    MAR 17

    The Farm Impact of World Conflict - WOYM

    Global conflict is colliding with farm economics in this episode of Wheat’s on Your Mind. Host Aaron Harries is joined by Mike O’Dea, risk management consultant at StoneX, and Josh Linville, vice president of fertilizer at StoneX, to unpack the fast-moving fallout from the Iran conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Together, they explain why wheat prices were already moving higher before the latest geopolitical shock, how crude oil is adding fresh volatility, and why current rallies may create marketing opportunities for producers. The discussion also explores the fertilizer side of the equation in detail. Linville explains how much of the world’s urea and phosphate trade depends on the Middle East, why the spring import window matters so much for U.S. growers, and how delayed buying patterns could worsen supply problems. O’Dea connects those fertilizer risks back to wheat production, protein, corn acres, and broader crop competition, offering listeners a grounded look at how global events can quickly reshape decisions at the farm gate. Top 10 takeaways Wheat was already rallying before the Iran conflict due to fund short covering, and crude oil volatility added another layer of support. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global fertilizer trade, especially urea. This is landing at the worst possible time for U.S. growers because April is the key fertilizer import arrival month. Fertilizer risk is broader than nitrogen; phosphate supplies are also vulnerable because several major suppliers are constrained. Higher fertilizer prices could reduce application rates, trim yields, and create protein concerns in wheat. Delayed fertilizer buying by farmers, retailers, and distributors may worsen spring bottlenecks. Even if the conflict eases quickly, logistics and manufacturing delays mean supply chains will not normalize overnight. Grain rallies tied to fear can reverse quickly, which is why O’Dea frames this as a pricing opportunity rather than a guaranteed long-term bull market. Crop acreage decisions could shift as producers weigh fertilizer costs, corn demand, soybean oil strength, and competition from canola and pulses. The episode makes a strong case for more U.S. fertilizer production capacity, though cost and mineral access remain major barriers. Detailed Timestamped Rundown 00:00–00:15 — Disclaimer The episode opens with a reminder that it was recorded on March 11, 2026, and that market conditions may have changed since then.00:16–01:05 — Episode setup Aaron Harries introduces the show and guests Mike O’Dea and Josh Linville of StoneX, framing the conversation around grain markets, fertilizer markets, and uncertainty tied to the Iran conflict.01:06–03:36 — Why wheat was already moving higher O’Dea explains wheat had been rallying before the conflict due to fund short covering and seasonal tendencies. He notes crude oil volatility then added more upward pressure, even though wheat fundamentals still look bearish.03:37–05:02 — Strait of Hormuz and fertilizer shock Linville says the closure of the Strait is a major threat because such a large share of global urea exports and significant phosphate trade move through that region. He outlines sharp fertilizer price increases and stresses that this is not just a nitrogen problem.05:03–05:53 — Why timing matters for U.S. imports Linville highlights that April is the biggest arrival month for fertilizer imports into the U.S., and even if product were available immediately, shipping lead times mean deliveries would still lag well into April.06:02–07:48 — China, Russia, Europe, and global supply distortions The conversation turns to China’s export restrictions, Russia’s shifting fertilizer flows, and Europe’s reduced production capacity after losing access to cheaper Russian gas. The result is a much tighter and more politicized global fertilizer market.07:49–09:20 — What high nitrogen prices could mean for wheat Aaron asks how fertilizer costs and availability could affect wheat production globally. O’Dea says lower application rates could trim yields and create quality concerns, especially around protein.09:21–10:08 — Will farmers delay or cut applications? O’Dea says it is still early to know, but Linville adds that poor farm finances and delayed purchasing have already created a fragile just-in-time supply situation.10:08–12:36 — Domestic production and North American options Linville argues the situation should be a wake-up call for more domestic nitrogen production. He says the U.S. has gas, demand, and strong environmental standards, but new plants are costly and slow to build. He also explains why phosphate is harder to solve due to rock supply constraints.12:37–14:57 — If the war ends quickly, how fast do markets react? O’Dea says grain markets can correct fast when fear subsides, though logistics take longer to normalize. He also discusses funds turning net long in wheat and how hard assets may be attracting money.15:07–16:34 — Why fertilizer may not stay cheap even after a reopening Linville says a reopening of vessel traffic could trigger an immediate selloff, but the structural supply gap would remain. He expects the U.S. spring price floor has likely been raised regardless.16:35–17:51 — Acre shifts and competition between crops O’Dea says higher fertilizer costs and shifting margins could keep support under corn while also forcing a fight for acres among corn, beans, canola, pulses, and other specialty crops.17:52–19:21 — What StoneX does for customers The guests close by explaining StoneX’s role in risk management, fertilizer market education, and helping farmers and agribusinesses think beyond flat price toward margin and value relationships.19:21–end — Wrap-up Aaron thanks the guests and directs listeners to email Kansas Wheat with questions and find previous episodes online. Kansas WheatWheatsOnYorMind.com

    20 min
  3. WOYM - 80 Harvests After the Dust Bowl

    MAR 3

    WOYM - 80 Harvests After the Dust Bowl

    Don Keesling has lived through 80 Kansas wheat harvests, and he remembers when harvest was a full-family operation—kids hauling water, older siblings driving trucks, and every load requiring real muscle. In this special episode, Don and host Aaron Harries walk through how wheat harvest used to work, the machinery transitions that changed everything, and why the culture of neighbors helping neighbors feels different today. Don also shares his decades promoting wheat—especially hard white winter wheat—where taste tests and proof mattered more than talking points. From wheat varieties like Jagger to lessons from the Dust Bowl and the long road to conservation practices like no-till, Don’s stories connect Kansas wheat history to the realities farmers face now: tight margins, changing programs, and the need for practical skills (and a little WD-40). Top 10 takeaways Harvest used to be a full-family system—everyone had a job, and it built responsibility fast. Mechanization didn’t just speed harvest—it changed labor, logistics, and community rhythms. Handling grain was brutally manual—small loads and lots of shoveling shaped how farms operated. The “neighbor-helping-neighbor” era has faded, in part because fewer people and fewer kids stay on farms. White wheat promotion required proof, not persuasion—taste tests and milling performance were the turning points. Food aid is tied to politics and logistics, not just need; shipping requirements can limit outcomes. Hybrids and innovations must earn trust—farmers need repeated evidence of ROI. Variety selection is more than yield—shatter risk, grading quirks, and milling quality can make or break value. No-till can work—but transition is risky and can be financially painful early on without good management. Conservation is still “in recovery”—soil formation is slow, and losing good ground is hard to reverse.  Detailed timestamped rundown 00:00–01:00 Intro to Wheat’s On Your Mind; guest Don Keesling (Lyons, KS).01:00–03:10 “How many harvests?” Don: 80; earliest harvest memories and family roles.03:10–05:40 Keesling family roots in Kansas; early settlement, corn “was king,” land prices and homesteading era.05:40–09:30 Harvest equipment evolution: early tractors, steel-to-rubber transition, threshers and early combines.09:30–12:30 Grain handling realities: small loads, no lift beds, shoveling into bins; elevator deliveries.12:30–16:10 First self-propelled combine (circa mid-1940s) and the “automatic transmission downhill” mishap.16:10–19:30 Harvest culture: big meals, excitement until breakdowns; chores and family responsibilities.19:30–23:30 “Biggest changes”: modern health care; shift away from neighbor-helping-neighbor traditions; fewer kids staying.23:30–28:30 Don’s wheat promotion journey: love of wheat, milling school, feeding the world; international travel (former Soviet states).28:30–31:20 Wheathearts, state fair booth, wheat jewelry, Wally Wheat costume story.31:20–35:40 American White Wheat Growers: selling bread to consumers; proving value to millers/bakeries; taste matters.35:40–39:30 Food aid, “keep food in food aid,” P.L. 480 and shipping constraints; Senator Dole “Mr. Whitewheat.”39:30–45:10 Wheat evolution: hybrid wheat attempts (1980s), proving ROI; variety lessons (Wichita shatter).45:10–50:40 Farming systems shifts: programs and rotations then vs now; adopting no-till and transition pains.50:40–56:20 Variety stories: Red Chief strength vs milling quality; grading issues with Arkan; K-State variety legacy.56:20–60:00 Dust Bowl reflections (born shortly after Black Sunday); conservation, soil loss, dams, long recovery.60:00–62:10 Advice to young farmers: money, mechanical skills, frugality, and a supportive spouse; wrap and contact info. Kansas WheatWheatsOnYorMind.com

    39 min
  4. WOYM - World Fertilizer Prices, Kansas Wheat Reality

    FEB 17

    WOYM - World Fertilizer Prices, Kansas Wheat Reality

    Fertilizer isn’t just an input—it’s a globally traded commodity with price signals driven by geopolitics, energy markets, and overseas demand. In this episode, Aaron Harries sits down with Corey Rosenbusch, president and CEO of The Fertilizer Institute, to unpack why fertilizer markets can feel like “three-dimensional chess,” especially for wheat producers balancing tight margins. Rosenbusch explains how global trade flows shift when conflict disrupts supply chains and when natural gas availability changes the economics of nitrogen production. The conversation dives into why the U.S. is relatively strong in nitrogen production yet still imports key products, why potash remains heavily import-dependent, and how global demand—especially major buyers—can set price direction. He also stresses that while producers can’t control what happens in Beijing or on the Black Sea, they can control efficiency: the 4R framework (right source, rate, time, place), variable-rate strategies, and emerging technologies that help fertilizer go further. Top 10 takeaways Fertilizer pricing is global—local conditions are only part of the story.Natural gas is the “hidden driver” behind nitrogen availability and cost.The U.S. is comparatively strong in nitrogen production, but still imports meaningful volumes depending on product/year.Potash remains heavily import-dependent, with Canada as a major supplier.Phosphate supply is shaped by both U.S. production and imports—don’t judge the market by domestic producers alone.When geopolitics disrupt supply (or trade routes), “normal” supply/demand logic can break down fast.China’s production choices can tighten global supply and move prices far from the Plains.Big centralized buyers (like India, as discussed) can effectively set global benchmarks with massive purchases.In tight-margin years, stewardship matters more: 4R practices + precision can be the best controllable lever.Better, farmer-friendly market transparency (TFI and USDA resources) can reduce misinformation and improve decisions.Timestamped Rundown 00:00–00:59 – Show intro; guest background and credentials.  01:00–01:49 – What TFI is: representing the full fertilizer supply chain; advocacy + industry support.  01:50–03:42 – Fertilizer as a globally traded commodity; U.S. is ~10% of global consumption; potash import dependence.  03:43–06:09 – Russia–Ukraine ripple effects: sanctions, trade flow weirdness, and natural gas as the nitrogen bottleneck in Europe.  06:10–08:20 – China’s influence: export changes, phosphate dominance, and competing demand (including industrial uses).  08:21–11:34 – U.S. domestic production vs imports by nutrient: nitrogen, potash, phosphate; why “turning up production” isn’t simple.  11:35–12:00 – New potash production mentions (Michigan/Utah/New Mexico developments).  12:01–16:12 – Nitrogen imports and Trinidad connection; tariffs and why TFI focuses on facts, not “winners/losers.”  16:13–17:38 – “Political chess”: fertilizer’s role in high-level diplomacy (as described by Rosenbusch).  17:39–18:41 – Domestic production investment: what funding can/can’t do vs. true plant build costs; efficiency tech.  18:42–21:41 – Grower reality: low commodity prices + rising inputs; corn acres as a big U.S. demand driver; focus on stewardship.  21:42–23:31 – Global demand: India’s buying power and how non-U.S. crops can still move fertilizer markets.  23:32–25:34 – New farmer-facing market info resource coming from TFI; call for better USDA fertilizer economist/input transparency.  25:35–26:27 – Wrap-up; where to find episodes and how to contact the show. Kansas WheatWheatsOnYorMind.com

    27 min
  5. WOYM - The Woman Who Taught Kansas About Bread

    FEB 3

    WOYM - The Woman Who Taught Kansas About Bread

    Cindy Falk has spent 40 years helping Kansas Wheat connect with consumers through recipes, baking demonstrations, nutrition education, and the beloved Kansas Wheat recipe booklet tradition. In this episode, host Aaron Harries chats with Cindy about her upbringing on a Kansas farm, the “Speak for Wheat” spokesperson program she helped grow, and the behind-the-scenes work of answering baking questions (and busting myths) with a calm, science-first approach. You’ll also hear how the Kansas Festival of Breads evolved into the National Festival of Breads, turning home bakers into wheat ambassadors through harvest tours, mill visits, and live baking events. As Cindy steps into retirement, she shares what she’ll miss, what she hopes to do next, and leaves listeners with a simple truth that sums up her career: “Bread is the stuff of life.” Top 10 takeaways Cindy’s career started with a single phone call in 1985—and turned into 40 years of consumer-facing wheat education.The “Speak for Wheat” program became a major network of trained ambassadors, many rooted in farming and Extension-style education.Kansas Wheat’s consumer work isn’t fluff—it’s a strategic use of checkoff dollars to build demand and trust.Fad diets come in waves; Cindy’s approach was consistent: respond with science, not shouting.The recipe booklet tradition is a powerful “leave-behind” tool that keeps Kansas wheat in home kitchens year after year.The Festival of Breads didn’t just crown winners—it created ambassadors through hands-on wheat-to-flour experiences.Meeting farmers matters: consumers at fairs and events want direct conversations with the people growing the crop.School nutrition is a key battleground for grain education—whole grains and practical recipes help change menus.Technology can help the mission: bread machines made baking approachable and boosted flour usage.Cindy’s legacy is bigger than recipes—she helped protect the reputation of wheat foods during the toughest perception cycles.Timestamped Rundown 00:01–01:20 — Aaron Harries opens the show, introduces guest Cindy Falk and her 40-year Kansas Wheat career. 01:20–03:16 — Cindy’s upbringing near Laclede, Kansas, farm life, and where her love of baking began. 03:16–03:49 — Family today and travel (including lots of miles to see grandkids). 03:58–05:48 — The 1985 phone call that changed everything: joining “Speak for Wheat,” growth of the spokesperson program, and who those spokespersons are. 06:00–07:07 — Early demos (Kansas State Fair “Neat Wheat Treats”), audiences served, and the “all of the above” message: production + baking + nutrition. 07:11–10:09 — Wheat Foods Council involvement and why domestic marketing matters; emphasizing science-based communication. 10:25–12:20 — Festival of Breads origins in Kansas, commissioners pushing for a national contest, and what made it unique. 12:36–15:16 — The “big years”: hundreds of entries, testing in the kitchen, harvest tours, mill/elevator stops, and large public events (thousands attending). 15:16–16:58 — Kansas State Fair booth strategy: consumers want to talk directly to wheat farmers. 16:58–19:37 — Diet trends through the decades: low-fat era, anti-carb, gluten concerns; responding with facts and research. 18:30–19:25 — School foodservice work and whole grains; outreach tools (including gluten messaging). 19:51–20:30 — The Kansas Wheat recipe booklets: long-running tradition and wide distribution. 21:00–23:01 — Bread machines arrive; Cindy becomes the go-to resource; flour sales benefit. 23:25–24:51 — What she’ll miss: people, organizations, tours, the test kitchen, food styling/photography, international visitors. 24:51–26:12 — Retirement plans: grandkids, community teaching, preservation, travel—and closing line: “Bread is the stuff of life.” Kansas WheatWheatsOnYorMind.com

    27 min
  6. WOYM - Old-School Milling, New-School Baking

    JAN 20

    WOYM - Old-School Milling, New-School Baking

    Brian Walker didn’t start in a corner office—he started six weeks out of high school as a “sample jockey” in a flour mill, learning the business from union millers, lab mentors, and long days when the mill ran. More than 45 years later, his career spans Seaboard, Cargill, Ardent Mills, and Miller Milling—and he’s seen the milling industry transform through consolidation, shifting competition, and changing norms around sharing crop-quality information. In this episode, Brian connects the dots from farm to flour to finished bread: how high-speed bakeries increased stress on dough performance, how ingredient/tool changes (like moving away from potassium bromate and toward enzymes) affected quality, why varieties and disease resistance became even more critical, and how “extended shelf life” reshaped the bread supply chain (and consumer expectations). He closes with practical career advice: work hard, get involved, and show up—because wheat is a people business. Top 10 takeaways A milling career can start “anywhere” — curiosity + work ethic can take you global.Consolidation didn’t just change ownership—it changed how openly companies shared crop-quality insights.Bread used to be a shorter-shelf-life, local-distribution product; technology stretched time and distance.Extended shelf life improved softness longevity—but introduced tradeoffs (like needing stronger mold control and perceived flavor shifts).“Stale returns” shaped the old bread economy—and their decline reshaped retail bread systems.High-speed bakeries put new stress on dough—raising the premium on protein functionality, not just protein percent.Ingredient/tool shifts (especially moving away from potassium bromate) rippled all the way back into wheat breeding priorities.Varieties can change the game: Brian points to Karl (and later Glenn) as stabilizers in tough quality eras.Disease + food safety issues (like scab/vomitoxin) forced the industry to treat “quality” as a full supply-chain responsibility.The Wheat Quality Council and crop tours matter because they put real wheat in real hands—building shared understanding fast.Timestamped Rundown 00:00–00:41 — Welcome + guest intro: Brian Walker’s 45+ years in flour milling. 00:54–02:55 — First job: from pumping gas to mill lab “sample jockey,” long weeks, export-era flour packing memories (including heavy jute bags). 03:12–04:05 — Seaboard context + early exposure to wheat classes and baking in the lab; opportunity expands. 04:05–06:20 — Mentors and mill culture: learning the mill, lab rules, problem-solving mindset, baking fundamentals. 06:20–10:17 — Consolidation era: Cargill/Seaboard as a turning point; why openness about crop quality tightened as competition rose. 10:17–12:18 — What consumers saw in the 80s–90s: many bakeries/brands, shorter shelf life, fierce competition. 12:18–13:35 — 90s “eat right” messaging + folic acid fortification era; growth and capacity expansion. 13:35–16:34 — Early 2000s shocks: low-carb trend + extended shelf life technology reshapes bakeries, distribution, and flavor perceptions. 16:34–18:35 — “Stale returns” explained + why day-old bread stores faded. 19:02–24:25 — Farmer connection: high-speed baking raises quality demands; bromate goes away; varieties like Karl and Glenn help stabilize performance amid disease/food safety issues. 24:25–30:27 — Testing tools: NIR impact, farinograph/mixograph talk, and why loaf volume is still “where the rubber hits the road.” 30:55–37:29 — Giving back: Wheat Quality Council “best kept secret,” National Wheat Foundation work, quality + yield contest efforts, and overseas consulting with millers worldwide. 37:32–39:25 — Career advice: work hard, get involved, show up in-person—wheat is a people business. Kansas WheatWheatsOnYorMind.com

    39 min
  7. WOYM - 2025 Review: Kansas Leads the Wheat Fight Again

    JAN 6

    WOYM - 2025 Review: Kansas Leads the Wheat Fight Again

    2025 didn’t fit in a neat box for Kansas wheat farmers—it was “variability,” from a dry start to long stretches of wet weather that stretched harvest timelines and narrowed fieldwork windows.  Kansas Wheat Commission Chair Derek Sawyer and Kansas Association of Wheat Growers President Chris Tanner join host Aaron Harries and Kansas Wheat CEO Justin Gilpin to break down the year’s biggest storylines: how wheat checkoff dollars are invested, what advocacy work is happening in Topeka and Washington, and what’s changing in domestic and international markets. On the market side, the conversation highlights both bright spots and headwinds—strong export pace and renewed market activity, alongside big global wheat crops pressuring prices.  The group also digs into one of the most important agronomic storylines of the year: widespread wheat streak mosaic virus pressure reaching farther across Kansas than many are used to seeing, and what that means for volunteer control, “green bridge” conversations, and variety development.  Looking to 2026, their focus stays on profitability—maximizing trade opportunities, doubling down on research and the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center, and building an environment where family farms can thrive, not just survive. Top 10 takeaways 2025 was defined by “variability,” and weather stretched fieldwork windows in parts of Kansas.Some operations faced brutal wheat economics, including acres not worth harvesting.The wheat checkoff’s core mission is profitability, largely through research, breeding, and market development.Advocacy priorities stay centered on tax, regulation, and transportation, so wheat producers have a strong voice in Topeka and D.C.Kansas saw a meaningful production rebound (per the conversation), but global supply still pressured prices.Overseas customers keep emphasizing quality and consistency—and relationships matter as much as bushels.Wheat streak mosaic virus was a statewide storyline, raising urgency around volunteer control and variety resistance.The “green bridge” problem is getting harder, especially with tighter rotations, no-till, and cover crops.Input-cost discipline is the profitability lever farmers can control when market prices aren’t.2026 focus: move bushels, fund research, expand markets, and push for conditions where family farms can thrive.Detailed Timestamps 00:00:01 – 00:01:10 | Welcome + who’s at the table Aaron Harries introduces the episode, the two Kansas wheat organizations, and guests Derek Sawyer, Chris Tanner, and Justin Gilpin. 00:01:10 – 00:03:19 | What the Kansas Wheat Commission does Derek explains checkoff stewardship (two cents per bushel) and priority investments: breeding, production education (including WheatRx), and domestic/international market development. 00:03:19 – 00:04:05 | What Kansas Association of Wheat Growers does Chris lays out the advocacy mission in Topeka and Washington, focused on tax, regulatory, and transportation policy. 00:04:05 – 00:07:19 | “Crop report” reality check: central vs. northwest Kansas Derek calls 2025 “variability”—dry start then very wet; harvest dragged out, field days were limited. Chris shares a tough year: the first time he left half the wheat crop unharvested due to poor yield conditions. 00:07:19 – 00:10:40 | Statewide crop + market picture Justin recaps the whirlwind year—organizational transitions, policy attention, and a statewide crop around ~51 bu/acre and ~350M bushels, plus exports running at one of the strongest paces in more than a decade (per the discussion). 00:10:40 – 00:12:20 | What overseas customers say they want Derek shares the repeated message from international buyers: U.S. wheat’s quality and consistency matter, and relationships need maintained. 00:12:20 – 00:15:01 | Policy roller coaster + “farm bill” conversation Chris outlines active issues (USAID/Food for Peace, USMCA review, Snake River dams, rail merger concerns). Derek notes more funding opportunities for international market access efforts, while Chris emphasizes the desire for longer-term certainty. 00:15:01 – 00:20:57 | Wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV) + the green bridge problem The group flags 2025 as a widespread WSMV year, discusses volunteer control, changing production systems (no-till/double-crop/cover crops), and the need for genetic resistance. Derek also previews the coming conversation around GM traits (including HB4 mentioned in the episode). 00:21:04 – 00:23:00 | Input costs + fertility decisions Derek and Chris talk about profitability being driven by controlling input costs, and how some growers are delaying fertilizer decisions amid volatility. 00:23:00 – 00:26:05 | Exports and trade outlook Justin points to new/renewed relationships and specific bright spots (agreements and follow-through in key markets; Nigeria’s return; caution about over-reliance on inconsistent buyers). 00:26:05 – 00:29:01 | Kansas leadership at the national level Discussion of leadership transitions and Kansas farmers moving through national officer rotations—plus why it matters for wheat’s future. 00:29:01 – 00:34:30 | 2026 resolutions + closing reflections “Maximize opportunity” is the theme: keep markets moving, invest in research and breeding programs, and aim for an environment where family farms can thrive. 00:34:30 – 00:34:53 | Where to learn more Contact and where to find past episodes. Kansas WheatWheatsOnYorMind.com

    35 min
  8. WOYM - Weather Pivots, Wheat Profits, and What’s Next

    12/23/2025

    WOYM - Weather Pivots, Wheat Profits, and What’s Next

    Private meteorologist and climatologist Brian Bledsoe joins Wheat’s On Your Mind to reflect on the surprising weather turns of 2025 and what Kansas wheat producers should be watching as 2026 approaches.  With a strong soil moisture profile and a well-established crop across much of the state, Bledsoe explains why early-season dryness may not spell disaster — especially as global weather patterns begin to pivot. The conversation dives deep into La Niña and El Niño transitions, historical analog years, polar vortex risks, and long-term climate oscillations shaping agriculture in the High Plains.  Bledsoe also shares insight on private weather services, AI-driven forecasting, and why communication — not just data — is critical for helping farmers make confident decisions in an unpredictable weather future. Top 10 Takeaways Seasonal forecasts must be revisited as conditions change.2025 shifted wetter due to unexpected Pacific temperature patterns.Kansas wheat enters 2026 with a strong soil moisture profile.La Niña is fading, with El Niño likely developing later in 2026.March may trend dry, but April moisture looks promising.Historical analog years suggest spring moisture rebounds are common.Polar vortex outbreaks remain a risk during La Niña winters.Long-term climate cycles matter more than single-year trends.AI enhances forecasting, but experience and communication remain key.Private weather services are growing as producers seek tailored insight.Timestamped Rundown 00:01– 01:07 — Show open + guest intro Aaron introduces the podcast, Brian Bledsoe’s background, and the episode focus (2025 recap + 2026 preview). 01:08 – 04:14 — What stood out in 2025 (and why forecasts pivoted) Brian explains how conditions looked dry, then flipped in April; discusses why adapting forecasts matters and how Pacific temps shifted the outcome. 04:15 – 06:04 — What Brian is watching now (ENSO / La Niña status) He clarifies how La Niña/El Niño messaging gets oversimplified, then lays out where La Niña stands now and when it fades. 06:05 – 07:45 — When La Niña/El Niño matters most + 2023 example Brian explains typical timing/impacts and points to 2023 as a recent “pivot year” with sharp Kansas contrasts and hail/water patterns. 07:46 – 10:17 — Analogs: how he uses “history” to forecast Defines analogs, lists the six key analog years (1951, 1965, 1972, 2002, 2009, 2023), and what they suggest for March temps and precipitation. 10:18 – 13:45 — Jan–Apr outlook for Kansas wheat (profile, dryness, then April wetter) Full soil profile as “bridge,” western KS higher dry risk early, lingering La Niña signal, then optimism for a wetter April and better May/June odds; “drought begets drought / wet begets wet.” 13:46 – 17:10 — Polar vortex / extreme cold risk Why La Niña patterns can unlock Arctic air; notes cold mostly staying NE so far; warns about warm winter stretches pushing wheat growth and moisture use; “shouldn’t be 70 on Christmas.” 17:11 – 21:09 — Shifting seasons + climate context + PDO deep dive Brian’s perspective on climate variability, then explains the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), why the ’90s were “golden,” and why the last ~27 years have been more drought-prone/challenging. 21:10 – 25:02 — CO₂, cropping systems, dryline movement, and moisture recycling Discusses politicization/disinformation, then the role of dry soils vs wet soils, vegetation/corn transpiration, and why the dryline’s behavior depends heavily on pattern + soil moisture feedbacks. 25:03 – 28:04 — AI in forecasting + ECMWF vs U.S. model investment AI can improve accuracy, but human interpretation/communication remains key; praises ECMWF as gold standard; criticizes U.S. R&D cuts. 28:05 – 29:11 — Brian’s services + where to find him How he works with producers; points to his site and contact methods. 29:12 – 30:58 — Growth of private weather + NWS cuts + radar needs Explains why private sector is growing, impacts of staffing/funding reductions, and the need to modernize radar coverage for severe weather warnings. 30:59 – 31:32 — Wrap + listener contact info Aaron thanks Brian and shares the email + where to find past episodes. Kansas WheatWheatsOnYorMind.com

    32 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Wheat's on Your Mind is the go-to podcast for anyone involved in the wheat industry, from farmers and agronomists to grain marketers and researchers. Hosted by Kansas Wheat's Aaron Harries, this podcast covers everything you need to know about wheat—from the latest market trends and technological advancements to practical tips on crop management and sustainability. Each episode offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing wheat producers, helping you stay informed and ahead of the curve. Whether you're in the field or behind a desk, Wheat's on Your Mind delivers the knowledge you need to succeed in the world of wheat.

Information

  • Creator
    Kansas Wheat Commission
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    85
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 - Wheats On Your Mind

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