AURI

Soy-based road preservation is saving cities millions, and the biggest breakthrough is that they can now do it themselves. Harold Stanislawski, John Olson, and Lindsay Hermes discuss how Hutchinson, Minnesota, turned a biobased road rejuvenant into a long-term pavement strategy that cuts costs, extends road life, and makes better use of taxpayer dollars.

In this episode, Paul Wright from Wright Farms shares his journey into growing aronia berries, the challenges faced, and the exciting development of aronia-infused ice cream in collaboration with the University of Minnesota. Discover how niche markets and innovative marketing are opening new opportunities for this high-antioxidant superfruit.

Agriculture leaders cannot afford to think only about this quarter. Steve Olson, co-founder of the Next Five Years Executive Conference, explains why the smartest organizations are already planning for the next five years – and why that shift could determine who stays relevant and who falls behind.

Unlock the future of plant-based proteins with PURIS VP of R&D, Kushal Chandak. In this episode, discover how a 40-year journey from soy to peas is reshaping the alternative protein industry—and learn the secret to overcoming technical challenges like solubility, allergen safety, and acidic stability. Chandak shares how Puris’s innovative, vertically integrated model is making pea protein more...

In this episode, discover how a Minnesota-based collaboration between industry leaders Target and AURI ignited a new pathway for food entrepreneurs to scale nationally. Lauren Pradhan, CEO of Tesser Advisory, and Jason Robinson, Food Business Development at AURI, walk us through the strategic magic of blending community, storytelling, and retail expertise to unlock new markets. From behind-the-sce...

In this episode, Alexandra Ostlund of AURI and Brad Schloesser of Minnesota’s Agricultural and Rural Leadership program (MARL) unpack the 25-year-old program that’s shaping the future of agriculture leadership. Most leaders are waiting for the perfect moment—what if the secret is actually creating it? Discover how MARL transforms mid-career professionals into impactful rural champions, w...

In this episode, Jamie Dickerman interviews Gail Dennison from the Hormel Institute to explore how research at the intersection of food, agriculture, and health can shape the future of nutrition and disease prevention. They discuss the Institute’s history, ongoing projects, and the importance of making healthy eating accessible and convenient.

In this episode, Alex Frescoln, an Avisen attorney with a background in ag and food markets, discusses the evolving landscape of value-added agriculture, startup challenges, and the future of bioenergy and manufacturing in the Midwest.

Unlock the future of sustainable food with a deep dive into Minnesota’s pioneering plant protein innovation. Discover how the University of Minnesota’s Plant Protein Innovation Center (PPIC) is transforming local crops like dry beans and kidney beans into game-changing protein sources — crucial for feeding a global population projected to reach 10 billion. This episode features PPIC Director and F...

The future of agriculture in the Midwest hinges on more than just farming — it’s about resilience, innovation, and smart policy. Holly Callaghan from GreenSeam reveals how a groundbreaking industry report uncovers critical trends affecting rural prosperity, from shifting business sentiments to the vital role of sustainability and policy adjustments.

Discover how Plasma Blue, a Minnesota-based energy technology company founded on university research, is pioneering plasma-based solutions to produce biofuels, break down harmful chemicals, and address environmental challenges. Host Jamie Dickerman chats with CEO Tom Slunecka about the science behind plasma technology and its future applications across industries.

In this episode of the Ag Innovation News podcast, host Jamie Dickerman speaks with Devin Hoffarth from the Minnesota Corn Growers Association about the current priorities and developments in the corn industry. They discuss the importance of market development, new uses for corn, and the collaboration with AURI to support innovation. The conversation highlights the versatility of corn as a feedsto...

Unlock the transformative power of the Future Farmers of America — the organization shaping tomorrow’s leaders (not just farmers!) in agriculture today. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or community supporter, discover how just one opportunity can ignite confidence, leadership, and innovation in youth. If you’ve ever wondered how agricultural education develops problem solvers and future-r...

In this episode of the Ag Innovation News Podcast, host Jamie Dickerman speaks with Mary Oudekerk, a senior business development officer at the 504 Corporation. They discuss the role of the 504 Corporation in providing SBA 504 loans, the impact of these loans on businesses in Minnesota, and the application process for potential borrowers. Mary shares insights into the eligibility criteria for the...

In this episode of the Ag Innovation News podcast, host Jamie Dickerman speaks with Shannon Schlecht, the executive director of AURI, about the organization’s impactful year in agriculture. They discuss AURI’s structure, strategic initiatives, and the successes achieved in various projects, including biogas, industrial hemp, and protein sustainability. Shannon highlights the importance...

In this episode of the Ag Innovation News Podcast, host Jamie Dickerman delves into the groundbreaking world of SoyFoam, a soy-based firefighting foam that’s making waves in the industry. Joined by experts Dave Garley from Crossplane Solutions and Mike Youngerberg from Minnesota Soybean, the discussion explores the innovative use of soybeans to create an environmentally friendly alternative...