The Business of Agriculture Podcast

Missouri dairy producer J.R. Burdick is reshaping his business by transitioning from conventional dairy to direct-to-consumer A2 milk sales. He shares insights on the challenges of packaging and logistics, while detailing how this change has boosted his profit margins. The discussion dives into the significance of community engagement, the need for transparency in farming, and the importance of adapting to market demands. J.R. emphasizes building customer relationships and the complexities of scaling this innovative model in agriculture.

What does the next 15 years hold for American production agriculture? In this episode, Damian Mason is joined by Shay Foulk of Ag View Solutions and Ben Gordon of Fractal to analyze emerging trends in U.S. farming. Topics include consolidation in agriculture, the evolving role of government subsidies, financial pressures facing producers, and the viability of small-scale, niche farms in a shifting food system. With historical context and expert insight, this conversation provides an informed look at the economic and structural future of farming in America. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary. This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.

Brazil has emerged as a dominant force in global agriculture, especially in soybean production. Over the past decade, the country has expanded its soybean acreage by 42%, resulting in a 57% increase in production—mainly to meet China's growing demand. This explosive growth has contributed to an oversupply of global commodities, creating new pressures and questions for agricultural markets. In this episode, Damian Mason is joined by Matthew Kruse, president of Commstock Investments, for a critical analysis of Brazil's agricultural expansion, China's strategic influence in South America, and the future implications for U.S. producers and global supply chains. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary. This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.

"Creating demand" is often cited as the solution to low commodity prices—but where will that demand come from? In this episode, I examine the hard truths behind global agricultural markets. He explores the limits of trade agreements, the decline of biofuel-driven demand, and why Africa and the EU are unlikely to become major buyers of U.S. commodities. With Brazil expanding production and global consumption slowing, American agriculture faces a sobering outlook. A must-listen for ag professionals seeking clarity in a saturated market. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary. This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.

Despite alarming headlines, fewer than one in a thousand U.S. farms are in bankruptcy. Damian Mason speaks with Curt Covington of Ag America Lending to examine the facts behind agricultural bankruptcies, the economic pressures farmers face, and the outlook for farm finances. Learn why high input costs and interest rates are real concerns, while other supposed causes are overstated. This episode provides actionable strategies for producers to safeguard their operations against financial trouble. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary. This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.

Government intervention is reshaping agriculture—and not for the better. In this episode, Damian Mason speaks with economist and author Dr. Richard Sexton, whose book Food Fight challenges misguided food policies and their consequences for farmers, consumers, and global supply chains. Topics include proposals for government-run grocery stores, the inefficiencies promoted by U.S. farm subsidies, the environmental harm caused by biofuel mandates, and the unintended impacts of the Conservation Reserve Program. A critical conversation on how policy can either support or sabotage the future of agriculture. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary. This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.

The agricultural landscape is evolving rapidly—and so must you. In this episode of The Business of Agriculture, Damian Mason is joined by Mark Jewell of The Momentum Company to explore the ten essential habits that will determine your relevance and success in tomorrow's agriculture. With emerging technologies and automation reshaping the sector, one-third of today's ag jobs may vanish in just five years. Are your current behaviors preparing you for that future? From mindset shifts and financial discipline to strategic networking and personal development, this motivating discussion offers actionable insights for ag professionals looking to lead, not lag, in the next era of agriculture. Tune in for a forward-focused conversation that blends inspiration with practical guidance. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary. This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.

China's rise over the past 25 years reshaped global economics—but what lies ahead for agriculture? Ian Lahiffe, agriculture consultant in China, offers a bold, optimistic forecast. He explains how China may remain economically powerful, less reliant on the West, and more self-sufficient in food and energy. But he also warns of an emboldened China, prepared for economic conflict. This episode explores the risks and realities for American agriculture, especially given U.S. farmers' heavy dependence on Chinese trade. A must-listen for ag professionals navigating global market volatility. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary. This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.

Water is the most critical—and increasingly scarce—input in the Business of Agriculture. Yet, it is rarely given true economic value until it becomes limited. In this episode, Damian Mason is joined by Val King of the North Coast Water Association to discuss how water access is transforming the future of American farming. They explore the economic, environmental, and regulatory challenges tied to diminishing water supplies. Learn why some crops will disappear from traditional growing regions, how farmland values are already being impacted by water scarcity, and what adaptive strategies producers must consider in a future defined by water regulation. This conversation offers essential insights for ag professionals, landowners, and policymakers navigating the realities of a water-constrained agricultural future. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary. This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.

Is it time to radically reform American agriculture policy? In this compelling episode, Damian Mason speaks with Agritopia author Dave Savage, who outlines his bold vision for a more resilient and equitable rural economy. Savage critiques major pillars of the current farm system—including crop insurance subsidies, the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), and tax-deferred land exchanges—arguing that these mechanisms hinder opportunity for small and mid-sized producers. Backed by decades of industry insight, Savage presents thought-provoking reforms aimed at revitalizing rural communities, restoring land access for working farmers, and re-aligning federal programs with long-term sustainability and economic health. This lively and informed discussion challenges conventional thinking in agricultural policy and offers a blueprint for real change in American production agriculture. Key topics covered: Federal subsidies and unintended consequences Land ownership barriers for next-gen farmers Reforming the Conservation Reserve Program Tax policy and land speculation Building a viable future for mid-sized farms Whether you are an agribusiness professional, policy stakeholder, or engaged producer, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of American agriculture. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary. This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.