Episode 35: From South Texas Fields to Global Markets: A Grain Update with Paul Dubravec
Co-op Talk Texas
In this episode of Co-op Talk Texas, Paul Dubravec of Advance Trading shares insights from recent visits with South Texas producers, breaks down key USDA reports, discusses trade expectations and global events, and offers a macro view of producer sales across the U.S. A timely market update to help producers and cooperatives navigate today’s grain markets.
info_outline
Episode 34: Shaping the Future of Agriculture — A Conversation with Tim Brennan of the Farm Foundation
Co-op Talk Texas
In this episode of Co-op Talk Texas, Christy Lewis visits with Tim Brennan of the Farm Foundation to discuss the organization’s mission and the programs supporting agriculture through research, leadership development, and policy dialogue. Learn how the Farm Foundation is building connections and shaping the future of agriculture.
info_outline
Episode 33: Reclaiming Water for Texas Agriculture with Dr. Shane Walker
Co-op Talk Texas
Texas agriculture is facing serious water challenges. In this episode, we visit with Dr. Shane Walker with the Texas Produced Water Consortium to explore how produced water could become part of the solution. We also discuss Proposition 4 and how new water funding could support future opportunities for producers and cooperatives.
info_outline
Getting to Know Jerrad Stroh: CHS Region 8 Candidate
Co-op Talk Texas
In this special Co-op Talk Texas episode, we visit with Jerrad Stroh, the current CHS Board Member representing Region 8, which includes Texas. With elections approaching, Jerrad reflects on his service, the cooperative values that guide him, and the priorities he believes will keep CHS strong for its members across the region.
info_outline
Getting to Know Ross Littlefield: CHS Region 8 Candidate
Co-op Talk Texas
As CHS members prepare for the upcoming Region 8 Board of Directors election, this special episode of Co-op Talk Texas sits down with Ross Littlefield, a candidate representing the region that includes Texas. Ross shares his background in agriculture, his passion for cooperatives, and his vision for how CHS can continue to serve its members and communities.
info_outline
Episode 30: Regulatory Wins with Kelley Green
Co-op Talk Texas
This episode of Co-op Talk Texas discusses regulatory wins with Kelley Green, Executive Vice President of the Texas Cotton Ginners’ Association. This episode unpacks key outcomes from the 2025 Texas Legislative Session and highlights federal updates shaping our industry. Tune in to learn what these changes mean for cooperatives and producers.
info_outline
Episode 29: Banned or Unbanned? Inside the Fight Over THC in Texas with Ilissa Nolan
Co-op Talk Texas
In this episode of Co-op Talk Texas, Ilissa Nolan, Executive Director , Texas Hemp Coalition, unpacks the whirlwind journey of the proposed Texas ban on hemp-derived THC. We explore the bill’s origins, its potential impact on retailers and agriculture, Governor Abbott’s surprise veto, and what the hemp industry hopes to see moving forward.
info_outline
Episode 28: How Ag Workers Insurance Serves Texas Agriculture with Marcus Hill
Co-op Talk Texas
In this episode of Co-op Talk Texas, Marcus Hill, Board Chairman of Ag Workers Insurance, shares how the company has served the ag community for over 75 years. Learn what sets Ag Workers apart, how the auto insurance world is changing, and tips to help you save on your premiums.
info_outline
Episode 27: Leading Through Change with Kristen Ireland
Co-op Talk Texas
Whether you're managing day-to-day operations, guiding a team, or helping shape long-term strategy from the boardroom, your ability to lead during uncertain times can make or break your organization’s momentum. In this episode, Kristen Ireland from People Spark Consulting joins Christy Lewis to share practical strategies for navigating change, building trust, and leading with clarity and confidence—no matter your role. Website: Kristen Ireland: Additional resources: Leading Through Change Two-Week Course:
info_outline
Episode 26: Reimagining Healthcare with Matt McCuen
Co-op Talk Texas
In this episode, Christy Lewis sits down with Matt McCuen from Imagine360 to answer common questions about TACC’s new healthcare offering. Learn how this innovative model works, what to expect after signing up, and why it’s designed to deliver real savings and superior support for cooperatives and their employees. Questions? Contact Janna or Matt below: Janna Haggard, Triangle Insurance, , 800-894-5020 Matt McCuen, Imagine360, Webinar Information:
info_outlineAs many of you know, Texas’ last sugar mill, Rio Grande Valley Sugar Growers Association in Santa Rosa, was forced to close after more than 50 years in business. Made up of more than 100 farmers, the cooperative’s shutdown marks the loss of one of the region’s biggest farming operations and is a direct result of an ongoing water crisis. Much of the water crisis is due to Mexico’s failure to comply with the 1944 Water Treaty requiring it to share reservoir supplies with the United States. Today’s guest, Brian Jones, the Texas Farm Bureau State Director for District 13, joins us to talk more about this ongoing crisis and the many efforts that are being made by the Texas Farm Bureau to bring much-needed relief for farmers and ranchers in South Texas. Brian has farmed in Hidalgo County for 38 years and has held many leadership roles within the Farm Bureau. He grows irrigated cotton, corn, grain sorghum, and soybeans, and provides some very valuable insight into the water crisis in South Texas.