StalkTalk

Most successful companies in farming have one thing in common: resilience. When the seed business was launched during a downturn in 2010, ProHarvest faced its biggest challenges head-on—and came out stronger. Randy, Jake, Josh, and the entire team at ProHarvest share their journey from humble beginnings in Illinois to a thriving, family-owned company now managing multiple seed brands and acquisiti...

Most farmers think they can’t find a profitable niche in today’s crowded agricultural market—until they hear Jennifer James. Her family’s story of pioneering natto soybeans in Arkansas, a specialty product with roots in Japan, proves otherwise. From overcoming low prices to building direct international relationships, Jennifer’s journey reveals how innovation and strategic niche markets can transf...

In this eye-opening episode, we dive into the rapid rise of biological seed treatments and what it means for your farm and business. We break down the key challenges in adopting biologicals — shelf life, data transparency, application timing, and testing protocols — revealing the nuanced science behind making these products work. Why does this matter now? Because the political landscape and regula...

This podcast episode of "StalkTalk" features hosts Todd Martin and Cat Frans in conversation with Justin Meints, discussing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). The episode delves into the benefits of EOS, a business management system designed to help organizations streamline operations and improve efficiency. Justin shares insights on how EOS can transform businesses by focusing on key com...

Unlock the power of IPSA Member Benefits with Todd Martin and Cat Frans as they reveal transformative tools reshaping the membership. Discover how AI can revolutionize your business operations, benefits from expense management to customer relationship management software. Learn practical applications for smarter marketing and faster report generation. Hit play and elevate your business to the next...

In this episode of "StalkTalk," we chat with Matt Dannenfeldt and dive into the innovative advancements at Seedbox Solution. We discuss the development of Box IQ, a cutting-edge technology designed to enhance inventory management and efficiency in the agricultural sector. The conversation highlights the entrepreneurial journey of Matt Dannenfeldt, from washing seed boxes to leading technological i...

In this episode of StalkTalk, hosts Todd Martin and Cat Frans discuss an exciting new partnership with Matt Dahle from FIRST Seed Trials. They delve into the details of the partnership, focusing on the new EXP trials aimed at providing seed companies with better data for decision-making. The conversation covers the importance of genetic testing, the process of bringing hybrids to market, and the b...

In this episode of StalkTalk, Todd Martin, Cat Frans, and Craig Nelson discuss various topics related to agriculture including insights from the Corn Belt Seed and Grain Conference, and the role of AI in enhancing efficiency within the agricultural sector. They emphasize the importance of networking and community in the seed industry, the significance of genetic testing, and the future directions...

In this episode of StalkTalk, Todd Martin interviews Sarah Wilbanks from AOSCA, discussing the vital role of seed testing and certification in agriculture. They explore AOSCA's history, its international reach, and the importance of education and mentorship in the seed industry. Sarah highlights the launch of the AOSCA Academy, aimed at training new professionals in seed certification, and discuss...

We had a little too much fun running StalkTalk live at the Western Seed Association Conference! Lots of talk about football, goats, and broncos - but we made sure to talk about the industry and the upcoming IPSA Annual Conference.

In this engaging conversation, Todd Martin, Cat Frans, and Kevin Cavanaugh discuss various aspects of biotechnology, intellectual property, and the agricultural landscape. They explore the impact of patent systems on innovation, the evolution of biotechnology in agriculture, and the dynamics of genetic gain in crop production. The discussion also touches on the challenges and opportunities present...

This conversation delves into the complexities of intellectual property in agriculture, particularly focusing on seed patents and their impact on innovation and farmers. The discussion highlights the challenges faced by the agricultural economy, including rising input costs and market consolidation. Joel Cape along with Todd Martin and Cat Frans emphasize the need for government intervention and t...

Join us with Scott Sanders (Peterson Farm Seed) and Amy Wills (WOOF Social) This conversation explores the integration of AI in marketing and business, discussing its potential benefits, challenges, and implications for the job market. We share insights on how AI can enhance efficiency, the importance of verifying AI-generated information, and the evolving landscape of digital marketing and agricu...

Join us for a special episode of StalkTalk as we celebrate the 90th anniversary of Burrus Seed. We are joined by Todd Burris, Tim Greene, and Griffin Greene, representing three generations of the Burrus family. Discover the rich history of Burrus Seed, from its founding in 1935 by Roy and Wilbur Burris to its current innovations in the seed industry. Learn about the challenges and triumphs that ha...

In this episode of StalkTalk, Todd Martin and Cat Frans welcome Elizabeth Burns-Thompson from the Modern Ag Alliance to discuss the ongoing controversies surrounding glyphosate and Roundup. They delve into the legal challenges faced by agricultural products, the misconceptions about glyphosate's safety, and the proactive measures being taken by the Modern Ag Alliance to ensure farmers have access...

An overview of Agrauxine and its innovative agricultural products, and the importance of optimizing agricultural inputs for better yield without increasing costs.

The conversation covers a range of topics including current events, the upcoming leadership conference for the American Seed Trade Association, the importance of advocacy in agriculture, and the pressing agricultural issues such as tariffs affecting the industry. The speakers emphasize the need for active participation in advocacy efforts to ensure the seed industry's voice is heard in Washington,...

The conversation at the IPSA Annual Conference highlights the importance of innovation in agriculture, particularly in crop protection and seed treatments. Guests discuss the significance of family-owned businesses like Heads Up, which focus on developing biological products to combat plant diseases. The dialogue emphasizes the need for legitimacy in the industry and the positive results from ongo...

In this engaging conversation, Cat Frans interviews Tommy Saatzer from Profile Industries at the IPSA's annual conference. They discuss the innovative marketing strategies employed by Profile Industries, particularly the unique approach of using donuts to attract attention and demonstrate their products. Tommy shares insights into how Profile Industries is revolutionizing seed processing technolog...

In this episode of StalkTalk, Cat Frans and Todd Martin interview Keith Hunt from Harvest Master at the IPSA Annual Conference. They discuss Harvest Master's innovative moisture measurement technology, the company's 30-year journey in agricultural technology, and the importance of networking at industry events. Keith shares his excitement about connecting with production customers and the potentia...

FSS focuses on the importance of fumigation in the seed industry and pest control. The speakers discuss the significance of brand protection, the partnership approach in pest management, and the fumigation process, emphasizing safety and quality assurance in agricultural practices. They also touch on the implications of international trade and the necessity of maintaining high standards in food sa...

Join us in our StalkTalk from the Conference with InnerPlant. Our conversation focuses on CropVoice, a technology that allows for early detection of plant stress through fluorescent proteins. The discussion highlights the unique involvement of farmers in the development of agricultural technology, the role of biotechnology in enhancing crop resilience, and the integration of satellite imagery for...

Join us live from wrap up of the 36th IPSA Annual Conference! We're highlighting its smooth execution, notable speakers, and the importance of innovation in agriculture. The speakers shared insights on AI's role in farming, the need for independent seed companies to embrace change, and the potential for collaboration with multinationals. Our new president, Scott Sanders outlines a vision for stren...

In this engaging conversation, Todd Martin, Cat Frans, and Matt Dannenfeldt discuss the festive spirit of the holidays, the impact of Santa Claus, and the recent management buyout at Seedbox Solutions. They delve into the company's growth, innovative solutions for independent seed companies, and the future of technology in seed packaging. The discussion highlights the importance of customer experi...

The conversation explores various themes including family dynamics, reflections on childhood, career paths in agriculture, the impact of education, and the role of curiosity in personal growth. Todd Martin, Mac Marshall, and Cat Frans engage in a light-hearted yet insightful discussion that delves into their experiences and perspectives on these topics. In this conversation, the speakers discuss t...