The Business of Agriculture Podcast
Damian travels all over the globe talking to audiences about trends in the business of food, fuel, and fiber. With his clever wit and down-to-earth delivery, he has turned these topics into an interesting (and sometimes controversial) podcast.
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462 - California Almonds: An American Agriculture Survivor Story? | Damian Mason Podcast
08/10/2026
462 - California Almonds: An American Agriculture Survivor Story? | Damian Mason Podcast
California produces approximately 80 percent of the world's almonds, making it the global leader in almond production. The industry supports more than 110,000 jobs and contributes roughly $6 billion in annual exports, but profitability has become increasingly difficult. Oversupply, weak prices, international trade disputes, rising production expenses, water concerns, and California's regulatory environment have created significant challenges for almond growers. Yet moving production elsewhere is far from simple because almonds require a rare Mediterranean climate that exists in only a few regions worldwide. Damian Mason sits down with Clarice Turner, President and CEO of the Almond Board of California, Alexi Rodriguez, CEO of the Almond Alliance, and Matt Woolf, specialty crop analyst with Terrain, to discuss what is happening in the almond business today and where the industry is headed. Topics include: California almond production Almond prices and profitability Global almond markets Agricultural exports and trade California regulations Specialty crop economics Water and production challenges The future of California agriculture If you are interested in agriculture, agribusiness, specialty crops, agricultural economics, or food production, this episode delivers expert insight into one of America's most valuable agricultural industries. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out my new show , , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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461 - Will the Great American Cotton Plan Save U.S. Cotton? | Damian Mason Podcast
08/03/2026
461 - Will the Great American Cotton Plan Save U.S. Cotton? | Damian Mason Podcast
$2.6 billion. That's what U.S. cotton growers stand to lose this year according to USDA, the fifth straight year of red ink for the industry. The Great American Cotton Plan, announced in May 2026, aims to change the economics of American cotton. In short, we’ve lost acres, we’ve lost infrastructure, and the producers have lost money. Plains Cotton Growers CEO, Kody Bessent joins cotton farmers Todd Kimbrell and Matt Miles. Along with Damian, they discuss: cotton’s current financial condition, how they see the new initiative impacting farmers, consumer apparel issues, and the promise of renewed cotton demand’s effect on rural communities. A major component of the new cotton promotion ties to the fiber’s natural-ness. American consumers discard more than 70 pounds of apparel each year, nearly three fourths of which is made from petroleum based material. Will all this bode as a positive for one of America's original cash crops? The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out my new show , , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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460 - AI Is Coming for Agriculture — The Upside, the Dark Side, and What It Means for Your Business | Damian Mason Podcast
07/27/2026
460 - AI Is Coming for Agriculture — The Upside, the Dark Side, and What It Means for Your Business | Damian Mason Podcast
Artificial intelligence is no longer a future concept for agriculture. It is already transforming how farms, agribusinesses, and agricultural professionals make decisions, manage risk, and compete in a rapidly changing global marketplace. In this episode, Damian Mason welcomes Aidan Connolly, author of The Future of Agriculture and one of the industry's most respected voices on innovation. Together they examine how AI is reshaping agriculture—not through science fiction or sensational headlines, but through practical applications that are available today. Their conversation explores why agriculture has historically lagged behind other industries in technology adoption and why the biggest obstacle is not age or cost, but organizational culture. They discuss how AI is leveling the playing field by giving producers and small agribusinesses access to capabilities that once required large staffs and specialized expertise. Damian and Aidan also examine the global AI race. While China focuses on implementation, Europe emphasizes regulation, and the United States continues to drive innovation, agricultural businesses everywhere must decide how quickly they will adapt. The discussion does not avoid the difficult questions. Data ownership, privacy, surveillance, and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence are becoming business issues that every agricultural organization must address. Whether you are a farmer, rancher, agronomist, lender, crop consultant, grain marketer, livestock producer, or agribusiness executive, this episode offers practical insights into preparing for the next era of agriculture. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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459 - Why American Farmers Pay More for Crop Inputs Than Brazil | Damian Mason Podcast
07/20/2026
459 - Why American Farmers Pay More for Crop Inputs Than Brazil | Damian Mason Podcast
Why do American farmers pay significantly more for seed and crop protection products than farmers in Brazil? A new study commissioned by the National Corn Growers Association finds that U.S. farmers face substantially higher crop input prices, with some products costing nearly twice as much as comparable inputs in Brazil. In this episode, Damian Mason speaks with NCGA Chief Economist Krista Swanson about the economic, regulatory, and market forces behind the price gap. They examine regulatory compliance costs, patent protections that can delay generic competition, market concentration among seed and crop protection companies, and the potential influence of U.S. farm payment programs on input pricing. Krista also explains what NCGA means when it calls for greater transparency from agricultural input suppliers and why pricing visibility matters for farmers, agribusiness professionals, and policymakers. This conversation provides a detailed look at crop input costs, agricultural competition, seed pricing, crop protection markets, and the economic pressures affecting the competitiveness of American agriculture. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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458 - 200 Million Acres of Southern Timberland: Why Land Outvalues Trees | Damian Mason Podcast
07/13/2026
458 - 200 Million Acres of Southern Timberland: Why Land Outvalues Trees | Damian Mason Podcast
More than 200 million acres of the American South are covered in timber. The South produces one-third of America’s lumber, with paper and cardboard as an important by-product. Bobby Dobson, timber investor and land broker, and Spencer Smith of Saunders Real Estate join Damian Mason to break down an industry that looks remarkably familiar to anyone who follows corn and soybean economics. Pulpwood prices down 46% from their peak. Ten major mills closed in three years. Sawmills running below capacity. Brazil growing a merchantable timber tree in half the time we can. The next generation of loggers opting out of the business. Yet timberland values are up nearly 50% since 2018. Outside investors are pouring in. Recreational buyers are paying premium prices to hunt whitetail or just own their piece of the country. Sound familiar? The commodity is struggling. The land underneath keeps going up. The parallels to Midwest row crop agriculture are impossible to ignore. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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457 - Rural Opportunity Zones: New Tax Incentives for Agriculture Investment | Damian Mason Podcast
07/06/2026
457 - Rural Opportunity Zones: New Tax Incentives for Agriculture Investment | Damian Mason Podcast
Could a new federal tax incentive reshape investment in rural America? Most agricultural producers, landowners, and agribusiness professionals have never heard of Rural Opportunity Zones, yet this new federal program could unlock billions of dollars in private investment for agriculture and rural communities. In this episode, Damian Mason sits down with Chris Rawley, CEO of Harvest Returns, to explain how Rural Opportunity Zones work and why they may become one of the most significant agricultural investment opportunities in years. Whether you are an investor with capital gains from farmland, a business sale, stocks, or other appreciated assets, or an agricultural entrepreneur seeking funding for expansion, this episode explains how the program is designed to connect investment capital with rural development projects. Topics include: How Rural Opportunity Zones differ from Opportunity Zones Capital gains tax deferral and potential tax reduction benefits Eliminating capital gains tax on future appreciation after a qualifying 10-year investment Funding opportunities for grain handling, cold storage, food processing, agricultural manufacturing, livestock facilities, and rural infrastructure Why traditional agricultural financing often cannot provide this type of equity capital How farmers, ranchers, landowners, and agribusiness operators can determine whether their projects qualify The boundaries for these new Rural Opportunity Zones are being established now, making this an important time to understand how the legislation could affect both investors and agricultural businesses. If you are interested in agricultural investing, rural economic development, farmland, tax strategies, agribusiness financing, or expanding your operation, this conversation provides an early look at a program that could significantly influence rural America for years to come. Learn more about Rural Opportunity Zones here: The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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456 - Americans are eating more meat despite alternatives & higher prices — Will it continue? | Damian Mason Podcast
06/29/2026
456 - Americans are eating more meat despite alternatives & higher prices — Will it continue? | Damian Mason Podcast
The U.S. butchers 600,000 head of cattle, 2.5 million hogs, and 185 million broilers every single week. Where all that product goes — and what it means for prices and profitability — is more complicated than most people realize. Michael DiSabato, animal protein analyst and founder of breaks down the economics, the numbers, and the outlook for beef, pork, and chicken in one of the most data-rich episodes The Business of Agriculture has produced. The consumer was supposed to trade down when beef prices went through the roof. They didn't. The fake meat companies were supposed to steal market share. They flopped. And now protein snacks — jerky, bars, shakes — are a multi-billion dollar growth category that's adding consumption occasions without cannibalizing the dinner plate. Michael and Damian dig into the K-shaped economy and what it means for premium cuts, why beef prices aren't coming down anytime soon, the surprising inversion in chicken pricing where thigh meat now costs more than breast, the pork industry's missed innovation opportunity, and why the only real long-term threat to protein consumption is one nobody in agriculture wants to talk about — fewer people. If animal agriculture is the bright spot in an otherwise tough ag economy right now, this episode explains exactly why — and how long it can last. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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455 - Why Iowa Can't Feed Itself — And Why That 65-Year-Old Farmer in His Air-Conditioned Tractor Isn't Going to Fix It | Damian Mason Podcast
06/22/2026
455 - Why Iowa Can't Feed Itself — And Why That 65-Year-Old Farmer in His Air-Conditioned Tractor Isn't Going to Fix It | Damian Mason Podcast
A map went viral on X showing Iowa — one of America's most productive agricultural states — imports 90% of its food. Cue the outrage. Cue the gubernatorial candidates. Cue the narrative that our food system must be broken. But is it? Damian Mason brings back specialty crop grower Steve Strasheim to work through the real reasons big ag states don't feed themselves. Climate. Infrastructure. Economics. Distribution. Processing. Consumer behavior. The answers are less inflammatory than the Twitter thread that started this conversation — and a lot more interesting. Steve grows 45 different vegetable crops on five acres in rural Iowa, runs an on-farm retail store, and has watched the direct-to-consumer market change dramatically since COVID. He knows firsthand what it takes to actually move from bulk commodity production to crops that directly feed consumers. Will a 65-year-old corn and soybean farmer climb out of their air-conditioned, self-driving tractor to grow and sell lettuce to the general public? Not likely, and that’s just one of the problems with the "Ag states should feed themselves” argument. Can Iowa feed itself? Probably not entirely. Should it? That's a better question. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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454 - How Paul Ehrlich's "Feed the World" Panic Is Still Costing Agriculture | Damian Mason Podcast
06/15/2026
454 - How Paul Ehrlich's "Feed the World" Panic Is Still Costing Agriculture | Damian Mason Podcast
Paul Ehrlich Is Dead. But the “Feed the World" Panic He Unleashed In 1968 Is Still Costing Agriculture. Stanford professor of biology Paul Ehrlich predicted mass starvation, water and food rationing in America and the disappearance of England as a country. His apocalyptic forecast for an overpopulated, food insecure world were laid out in his 1968 book “Population Bomb,” then reiterated over 1,000s of media appearances for decades. None of it happened. Everything Ehrlich predicted was wrong. Today we produce 60% more calories than humanity needs — and waste a third of what we grow. We’re literally discarding food surpluses 58 years after Ehrlich called for population control to reduce futurefood shortages. And the population has climbed from 3.5 billion humans on Earth to 8 billion since his book’s publication. How did this happen? Because Agriculture responded to this unfounded panic exactly the way you'd expect producers to respond. We planted fencerow to fencerow and "got big or got out” as then Secretary of Agriculture Earl Butz commanded, in response to the panic. Within 13 years of Ehrlich’s book, we glutted the world with food crops, triggering one of the worst farm crises in American history. Much of what ails the Business of Agriculture today, began with Ehrlich’s influential hysteria. Paul Ehrlich was widely written up in media this spring after his passing. The fact that none of his starvation predictions came to fruition is due to another scientist who garnered much less media: Norman Borlaug, father of the Green Revolution and Nobel Peace Prize winner. That contrast tells you everything. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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453 - Farmers, Feedback & Ag Industry Blind Spots | Damian Mason Podcast
06/08/2026
453 - Farmers, Feedback & Ag Industry Blind Spots | Damian Mason Podcast
Agriculture prides itself on resilience, innovation, and hard work. But is the industry as willing to accept feedback as it is to overcome adversity? In this episode of the Business of Agriculture, Damian Mason is joined by Zach Johnson, better known as the Millennial Farmer, for a candid discussion about feedback, accountability, and the blind spots that can limit both individual farms and the broader agriculture industry. As one of farming's most recognizable voices, Zach has spent years navigating public opinion, consumer questions, and criticism from more than a million YouTube followers. He shares what he has learned about staying authentic, separating emotion from decision-making, and using feedback as a tool for growth rather than a threat. Damian and Zach explore why agriculture sometimes struggles to acknowledge weaknesses, how the industry's strong sense of identity can create resistance to outside perspectives, and why listening to consumers may be one of the most important business skills for agriculture's future. They also tackle difficult conversations surrounding soil health, GMOs, farmer mental health, public perception, and the difference between defending agriculture and improving it. This episode offers valuable insights for farmers, agribusiness professionals, agricultural leaders, and anyone interested in the future of food production. If you care about strengthening agriculture while remaining open to new ideas, this conversation is worth your time. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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452 - Where Is The Autonomous Farm Machinery We Were Promised? | Damian Mason
06/01/2026
452 - Where Is The Autonomous Farm Machinery We Were Promised? | Damian Mason
Autonomous tractors and robotic farm machinery were supposed to transform American agriculture. So why has adoption been so slow? In this episode of The Business of Agriculture, Damian Mason speaks with Chad Fiechter, Assistant Professor of Agricultural Economics at Purdue University, about the economic realities slowing the rollout of autonomous farm equipment. Chad explains findings from his recent research comparing autonomous machinery with conventional human-operated equipment. The discussion explores labor savings, machinery costs, operational efficiency, technology limitations, and the financial hurdles that continue to prevent widespread adoption on American farms. While the promise of labor-reducing innovation remains attractive, the economics and practical challenges are proving more difficult than many anticipated. This episode delivers a realistic look at the future of autonomous agriculture and whether robotic farm equipment can eventually become financially viable for mainstream producers. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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451 - Can U.S. Farmers Diversify Beyond Corn and Soybeans? | Damian Mason Podcast
05/25/2026
451 - Can U.S. Farmers Diversify Beyond Corn and Soybeans? | Damian Mason Podcast
Is American Agriculture too dependent on corn and soybean production? Probably. But what is the reasonable alternative? Business of Agriculture host Damian Mason asks Illinois farmer / businessman Marc Severson and StoneX’s Ryan Moe: Is meaningful US crop diversification actually feasible? The conversation digs into the real-world economics, government policy, and market forces that keep American farmers locked into the corn-soybean rotation — and whether that's necessarily a bad thing. From ethanol mandates and crop insurance to global competition and infrastructure challenges, Marc and Ryan break down why large-scale crop diversification is harder than it sounds, and what smaller, strategic diversification moves might actually work for today's farm operations. In this episode: Why reducing US corn and soybean production could simply shift market share to foreign competitors - How ethanol policy creates artificial demand that shapes the entire US crop mix The real infrastructure and economic barriers to transitioning to alternative crops like flax or specialty crops Why small-scale diversification — adding a specialty crop or livestock enterprise — may be the most realistic path forward The role of government subsidies and farm policy in either enabling or blocking crop diversification Whether you're a row crop farmer, ag entrepreneur, or ag industry professional, this episode delivers a frank, data-driven look at the future of American crop production. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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450 - Rethinking Crop Inputs to Save Farm Profitability | Damian Mason Podcast
05/18/2026
450 - Rethinking Crop Inputs to Save Farm Profitability | Damian Mason Podcast
Crop input costs are reaching record levels in 2026, putting added pressure on farm profitability and financial viability. In this episode of The Business of Agriculture, Damian Mason is joined by Brian Adams of Life Scientific to discuss how producers can evaluate seed, fungicides, crop protection products, and off-patent alternatives to reduce spending without compromising agronomic performance. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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449 - Why High Beef Prices Are Not Slowing Meat Demand | Damian Mason Podcast
05/11/2026
449 - Why High Beef Prices Are Not Slowing Meat Demand | Damian Mason Podcast
U.S. meat consumption is at a record high despite rising grocery prices, especially for beef. Meanwhile, plant-based meat alternatives continue losing consumer interest and market share. Why are consumers still choosing real meat? Is the demand driven by protein preferences, nutrition trends, the MAHA movement, or changing perceptions about processed foods? In this episode of The Business of Agriculture, Damian Mason speaks with Brian Earnest, Animal Protein Analyst at CoBank, about the economic, nutritional, and cultural forces driving continued demand for animal protein. They discuss beef prices, consumer purchasing behavior, protein demand trends, the decline of fake meat products, and what the future holds for livestock and meat industries. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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448 - Can Independent Seed Companies Survive Consolidation? | Damian Mason Podcast
05/04/2026
448 - Can Independent Seed Companies Survive Consolidation? | Damian Mason Podcast
Bayer and Corteva control a major share of the seed industry, but independent seed companies still have opportunities to compete and win. Damian Mason talks with Bob Miller, founder of Miller Hybrids in Kalona, Iowa, about how small seed companies can succeed through strong genetics, farmer-focused service, competitive pricing, and a clear focus on return on investment. Bob, a PhD plant breeder and former corporate seed industry professional, explains why he left the large-scale seed business to build an independent company focused on practical value for farmers. This episode explores seed industry consolidation, corn and soybean genetics, farmer ROI, and what consolidation means for agribusiness, growers, and the future of seed competition. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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447 - The Forces Reshaping American Agriculture—Who Wins and Who Gets Left Behind | Damian Mason Podcast
04/27/2026
447 - The Forces Reshaping American Agriculture—Who Wins and Who Gets Left Behind | Damian Mason Podcast
American agriculture is changing—quietly in some ways, dramatically in others. The question is not whether the industry will look different in ten years, but who will still be standing when it does. In this episode, Damian Mason sits down with Scott Sartor of to unpack the real forces shaping the future of farming in the United States. From generational land transitions and shifting acreage decisions to the growing divide between large-scale operators and niche producers, this conversation goes beyond headlines and into what is actually happening on the ground. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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446 - Agriculture Downturn or Structural Reset? | Damian Mason Podcast
04/20/2026
446 - Agriculture Downturn or Structural Reset? | Damian Mason Podcast
Is agriculture facing a cyclical downturn, or are we witnessing a structural realignment of the global ag economy? In this episode of The Business of Agriculture, Damian Mason speaks with Illinois farmer and business advisor Mark Severson to examine the forces reshaping U.S. agriculture. Key topics include global competition from Brazil, evolving demand from China, margin compression, rising input costs, and the implications of protectionism and deglobalization. The discussion challenges traditional assumptions about agricultural cycles and explores whether long-standing boom-and-bust patterns still apply. This episode provides critical insights for farmers, agribusiness professionals, lenders, and ag investors evaluating risk, profitability, and long-term strategy in a changing agricultural landscape. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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445 - Can America Re-Shore Produce? |Damian Mason Podcast
04/13/2026
445 - Can America Re-Shore Produce? |Damian Mason Podcast
Can the United States re-shore fresh produce production to improve food security, public health, and supply chain resilience? In this episode, Damian Mason speaks with Zeb Portanova, CEO of , about America’s growing agricultural trade deficit, the risks of foreign produce dependence, and why domestic tomato production matters for national security. With more than $300 million committed to fresh, local, organic production, Zeb explains the investment case for rebuilding U.S. specialty crop capacity and creating a healthier, more secure food system. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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444 - Will a Fertilizer Shortage Make American Farming Better? | Damian Mason Podcast
04/06/2026
444 - Will a Fertilizer Shortage Make American Farming Better? | Damian Mason Podcast
American agriculture is facing a fertilizer supply crisis — and the disruption may arrive sooner than most producers expect. Nations with adversarial relationships toward the United States control critical production capacity and transportation infrastructure for synthetic fertilizer, and the fossil fuel dependence embedded in conventional manufacturing only compounds the vulnerability. Yet within this challenge lies a genuine question worth asking: could constrained fertilizer availability force the kind of agronomic innovation that has long been possible but rarely urgent? Midwest farmer-innovators Jason Mauck and Zack Smith join Damian Mason to examine the economic calculus that producers will soon face — including the possibility that lower input costs may offset yield declines, resulting in improved net margins. The conversation covers precision agriculture technologies, biological nutrient alternatives, soil health strategies, and the financial modeling farmers need to evaluate real-world trade-offs. This is not speculation — it is a serious examination of how American producers can adapt and potentially thrive when synthetic fertilizer supply chains are no longer reliable. Where economic pressure, agronomic science, and environmental necessity converge, innovation tends to follow. This episode of The Business of Agriculture examines exactly what that might look like. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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443 - Will American Farms Have Enough Fertilizer? | Damian Mason
03/30/2026
443 - Will American Farms Have Enough Fertilizer? | Damian Mason
Fertilizer supply remains one of the most urgent issues facing American agriculture. From trade disruptions and Covid-era shutdowns to geopolitical conflict and reliance on imports from hostile regions, farmers are once again confronting uncertainty around fertilizer availability, pricing, and production. In this episode of The Business of Agriculture, Damian Mason speaks with Josh Linville, Vice President of Fertilizer at StoneX, about the current fertilizer marketplace and what comes next. They examine whether the United States can re-shore fertilizer production, the capital required to expand domestic capacity, the role of global supply chains, and whether fertilizer manufacturers are limiting output. This timely conversation explores fertilizer shortages, input costs, crop yield risk, and what the fertilizer fight means for farmers, agribusiness, and the future of U.S. farm productivity. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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442 - Will We Have Water for American Agriculture? | Damian Mason
03/23/2026
442 - Will We Have Water for American Agriculture? | Damian Mason
Water scarcity is becoming one of the biggest strategic threats facing American agriculture. In this episode, Damian Mason examines aquifer depletion, irrigation pressure, water regulation, and the long-term outlook for productive farm acres across the United States. Joined by Preston Marthey of and Kansas farmer Brant Peterson, this conversation explores how agriculture can reduce water use through technology, better management, and greater awareness. The discussion also addresses whether rising demand from data centers and other industries could offset agriculture’s water-saving gains. This is a practical, forward-looking episode on water management, farm productivity, and the future of U.S. agriculture. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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441 - Farm Succession Planning: Avoiding the Family Farm “Sob Story” | Damian Mason Podcast
03/16/2026
441 - Farm Succession Planning: Avoiding the Family Farm “Sob Story” | Damian Mason Podcast
A massive transition is underway in agriculture. Over the next 25 years, more than $1.5 trillion in farm assets will change hands as aging farmers retire and fewer heirs return to the farm. Despite the scale of this shift, 77% of farming operations still lack a will or estate plan. In this episode, Damian Mason speaks with Shay Foulk and Chris Barron of Ag View Solutions about farm succession planning, estate management, and the difficult conversations necessary to secure the future of family farming. They discuss why many agricultural businesses avoid transition planning and how producers can transform potential family conflict into a structured business strategy. If agriculture values the family farm, then farm businesses must treat succession planning as a strategic priority. This conversation outlines the steps producers must take to ensure their operation becomes a success story rather than a financial and emotional sob story. Topics covered include: Farm succession planning strategies Estate planning for agricultural businesses Managing generational transition in farming Avoiding family conflict in farm inheritance Treating the farm as a business enterprise The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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440 - Why U.S. Farmland Values Remain Strong in an Ag Downturn | Damian Mason Podcast
03/09/2026
440 - Why U.S. Farmland Values Remain Strong in an Ag Downturn | Damian Mason Podcast
U.S. agriculture is in its third year of economic pressure, yet farmland values remain resilient. Why have farm real estate prices not declined alongside commodity margins? In this episode, Damian Mason speaks with Howard Halderman of Halderman Real Estate & Farm Management about the forces shaping agricultural land values today. While development pressure, renewable energy projects, and data centers contribute in select regions, the primary driver remains active farmers expanding their operations. Key farmland ownership statistics reinforce market stability: • Approximately two-thirds of farmland buyers are farmers • 85% of absentee landowners live within 100 miles of their holdings • 96.4% of U.S. farmland is owned by American individuals or entities • The average farm debt-to-asset ratio is just 14% With strong equity positions, limited leverage, and local ownership concentration, U.S. farmland markets differ significantly from previous downturn cycles. This episode examines agricultural land investment trends, farm balance sheet strength, rural real estate outlook, and what producers and investors should expect moving forward. If you are a farmer, landowner, ag lender, or agribusiness professional evaluating farmland investments, this discussion provides critical economic insight into agricultural real estate stability. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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439 - Are Nitrates in Our Water Triggering Farm Nutrient Regulation? | Damian Mason Podcast
03/02/2026
439 - Are Nitrates in Our Water Triggering Farm Nutrient Regulation? | Damian Mason Podcast
Is nutrient regulation poised to fundamentally change American agriculture? Rising nitrate levels in groundwater and surface water are intensifying scrutiny of farming practices across the United States, particularly in major crop-producing states such as Iowa. Excess nitrogen and phosphorus from row crop agriculture are increasingly linked to water quality degradation, prompting legislative momentum and regulatory proposals. Zack Smith, an Iowa farmer and entrepreneur (), joins Damian Mason for a direct discussion about nutrient runoff, nitrogen management, phosphorus application, and the political realities facing production agriculture. As both a producer and business operator, Zack brings practical insight into how over-application, timing decisions, and legacy nutrient strategies are placing agriculture in the regulatory spotlight. Will we see nutrient taxes, compliance mandates, environmental penalties, and expanded USDA oversight? Regulatory signals suggest the answer may be yes. This episode evaluates the economic risk, policy trajectory, and operational adjustments agribusiness professionals and farmers must consider as nutrient regulation accelerates. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is brought to you by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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438 - What Are The Real Threats to Agricultural Production and Food Security? | Damian Mason Podcast
02/23/2026
438 - What Are The Real Threats to Agricultural Production and Food Security? | Damian Mason Podcast
Agricultural production continues to reach record levels, yet serious threats to food security remain. In this episode, Damian Mason challenges the dominant narrative that climate change is the primary risk to global food production. Instead, he examines structural and policy-driven risks that could truly reduce agricultural output. From regulatory overreach and political confrontation to the weaponization of trade and the collectivization of farming systems, Damian outlines the forces that could meaningfully impact America’s agricultural productive capacity and global food supply chains. This episode delivers a data-driven perspective on agricultural productivity, food security policy, and geopolitical risk in modern agribusiness. If you work in agriculture, agribusiness, or food production strategy, this discussion provides critical insight into the real vulnerabilities facing the industry. The Business of Agriculture with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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437 - Are Large Consolidated Farms the Cure for Low Commodity Prices? | Damian Mason Podcast
02/16/2026
437 - Are Large Consolidated Farms the Cure for Low Commodity Prices? | Damian Mason Podcast
Low commodity prices continue to pressure farm profitability and reshape the structure of modern agriculture. As consolidation accelerates across the industry, a critical question emerges: are large consolidated farms part of the solution? In this episode, Damian Mason is joined by Illinois farmer, business owner, and consultant Marc Severson to examine whether large-scale farming operations create economic efficiencies that improve margins, strengthen market signals, and stabilize agricultural commodity prices. The discussion challenges agriculture’s long-standing preference for the small family farm model and evaluates how government payment limitations, subsidy structures, surplus production, and economies of scale influence The Business of Agriculture. Are small-scale commodity producers unintentionally contributing to persistent low-price environments? Do larger operations improve cost structures and market discipline? This episode provides a candid, data-driven conversation about consolidation, farm economics, and the future of agricultural production. Designed for agribusiness professionals, producers, policy leaders, and agricultural economists seeking strategic insight into farm structure and commodity markets. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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436 - AgAmerica’s Outlook: 2026 Farm Income, Risk & Resilience | Damian Mason
02/09/2026
436 - AgAmerica’s Outlook: 2026 Farm Income, Risk & Resilience | Damian Mason
In this essential episode, Damian Mason speaks with Shelby Bass and Curt Covington of to analyze the 2026 Agricultural Economy Outlook. Although U.S. net farm income rose $40 billion in 2025, only 52% of farms were profitable—and nearly a quarter of farm income came from government payments. Looking ahead to 2026, rising input costs, elevated interest rates, and policy uncertainty will continue to challenge profitability. The conversation covers: Projections for farm income and solvency in 2026 Government subsidies and taxpayer support in U.S. agriculture Strategic insights on farm consolidation, diversification, and financial risk Impacts of interest rates, trade, and input inflation on Ag operations What agribusinesses can do to remain resilient in tough financial climates If you are involved in agriculture, agribusiness, or rural finance, this is a must-listen forecast to help navigate the coming year. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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435 - Will the Next Generation of Farmers Be Saved from a Collapse? | Damian Mason Podcast
02/02/2026
435 - Will the Next Generation of Farmers Be Saved from a Collapse? | Damian Mason Podcast
A generational collapse in Agriculture is no longer hypothetical—it is a growing reality. With land values surging, profit margins tightening, and federal policy favoring legacy operations, new and aspiring farmers face enormous barriers to entry. In this hard-hitting episode, Damian Mason is joined by Iowa farmer Elliott Henderson and Minnesota farmer Lance Petersen to discuss the policy shifts needed to revitalize rural America and secure the future of farming. In this episode: Why current policy favors incumbents over new entrants How subsidies and crop insurance shape the ag economy The economics behind farm consolidation What young and beginning farmers need to succeed Policy solutions that could prevent a generational implosion This is a vital conversation for policymakers, ag professionals, and anyone concerned about the sustainability of U.S. Agriculture. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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434 - How Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Impacts Farm Economics | Damian Mason Podcast
01/26/2026
434 - How Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Impacts Farm Economics | Damian Mason Podcast
Government policy significantly impacts U.S. Agriculture—especially the ever-evolving Farm Bill. In this episode, Damian Mason speaks with Jarod Creed of JC Ag Financial and Elite Ag Insurance to break down how the delayed Farm Bill, and President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” are reshaping funding, risk management, and policy priorities for farmers and agribusiness professionals. Discover what these changes mean for crop insurance, commodity markets, conservation programs, and the future of rural America. This is a must-listen for anyone in the Business of Agriculture navigating policy uncertainty. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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433 - GLP-1 Drugs and New Dietary Guidelines: What They Mean for Agriculture | Damian Mason Podcast
01/19/2026
433 - GLP-1 Drugs and New Dietary Guidelines: What They Mean for Agriculture | Damian Mason Podcast
GLP-1 weight loss medications are transforming American diets—and agriculture must adapt. Damian Mason and ag consultant Todd Thurman explore how widespread adoption of these appetite-suppressing drugs, soon to be more accessible as pills, could reduce national calorie consumption by up to 25%. The shift away from sugar and alcohol, paired with new federal dietary guidelines favoring whole foods and plant-based proteins, signals a massive disruption in food production and consumer demand. What sectors win? Which ones lose? This episode breaks down the agricultural, economic, and societal implications of a thinner America. The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by: Also, make sure to check out , and . This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.
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