Rod Livesay

A Better Way To Farm Podcast

Low commodity prices and high interest rates are putting a squeeze on American farmers. A Better Way To Farm shows you how to maximize profit so you can farm the way you want! Visit https://abetterwaytofarm.com to use the free Farm Profit Score calculator.

Author

Rod Livesay

Category

Education

Podcast website

redcircle.com

Latest episode

Jul 7, 2026

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Episodes

226: The Recipe for High Yield Soybeans 01.01.2024

Join us as our client Tyler Janky shares his journey toward more profitable farming. We’ll explore Tyler's transition from traditional farming methods to a better approach which not only boosted his yields but also improved profitability. We stress the importance of proactive management, particularly in fertility and nutrient timing, revealing how these strategies can lead to sustainability on...

225: 12 Days of Nutrients - Day 12 Zinc 29.12.2023

Unlock the secrets of zinc, the unsung hero of plant nutrition, and elevate your farming game to new heights! We're peeling back the layers on this vital micronutrient's role in supporting healthy crop growth, from its involvement in hormone production to its critical function in developing chlorophyll, carbohydrates, and seeds. Prepare to be enlightened on how zinc, nitrogen, and phosphor...

224: 12 Days of Nutrients - Day 11 Moly and Chlorine 27.12.2023

We’re pulling back the curtain of a few nutrients today. First Molybdenum, aka ‘Moly’, its starring role is in nitrogen conversion and fixation within your crops. Precision in Moly’s application is the key to avoiding toxicity. Next we discuss the misunderstood world of chlorine and chloride. Yes, they’re different, and yes, it matters – a lot! With insights drawn from Beck’s comprehensive researc...

223: 12 Days of Nutrients - Day 10 Manganese 25.12.2023

Join us on this episode as we cover the importance of manganese in your soil. We shed light on its symbiotic relationship with nutrients like phosphorus and calcium, and how soil pH can be the game-changer in manganese availability. Listen in as we explore the delicate balance needed to prevent both deficiency and toxicity in your crops. So tune in and gain knowledge that could not only lead to a...

222: 12 Days of Nutrients - Day 9 Iron 24.12.2023

Today we’re covering iron's role in crop nutrition and the balance necessary for its management in the soil. We also touch on the synergy between this crucial micronutrient and others, like phosphorus, magnesium, and manganese. We’re also digging into the importance of comprehensive soil management and strategic nutrient management. Tune in as we cover the latest findings on foliar feeding wit...

221: 12 Days of Nutrients - Day 8 Copper 22.12.2023

Hey fellow farmers, in this episode we are bringing you a hearty dose of farming wisdom right from America's Heartland. This time around, we're shedding light on the critical, yet often overlooked, role of copper in maximizing farm profit. Listen in as we unpack the myriad ways copper serves as a pivotal micronutrient in plant development—from boosting photosynthesis and reproductive stage...

220: 12 Days of Nutrients - Day 7 Boron 20.12.2023

Listen in as we explore the role of Boron in farming, a micronutrient that's crucial for the lifecycle of crops from germination to harvest. It's not just about what Boron does – it's also about managing it effectively to enhance nitrogen utilization and avoid the pitfalls of deficiencies that have recently become more common. Join us as we discover the connection between essential mic...

219: 12 Days of Nutrients - Day 6 Sulfur 18.12.2023

Unlock the secrets of sulfur's untapped potential. Today we’re doing a deep dive into this lesser-known nutrient. We’re sharing its importance in amino acid formation, seed production, and chlorophyll creation. Tune in as we shed light on the critical role organic matter plays in retaining sulfur in the soil. In this episode, you’ll learn about the symbiotic relationship between sulfur, magnes...

218: 12 Days of Nutrients - Day 5 Calcium 15.12.2023

Today we discuss the significance of calcium for your farm’s soil health. We share how calcium is the unsung hero of nutrients. Calcium plays a pivotal role in cell division, nitrogen metabolism, and fruit development. Today’s discussion challenges the popular Mehlich-3 soil test and highlights the benefits of liming acidic soils. Join us as we dig into into these critical aspects of soil health a...

217: 12 Days of Nutrients - Day 4 Magnesium 13.12.2023

Listen in as we uncover the secrets of maximizing profit on your farm by focusing on the crucial role of magnesium. We explore how magnesium is vital for chlorophyll production, phosphorus utilization, and activating plant enzymes. We highlight the danger of excess magnesium and discuss the importance of achieving a balance with other nutrients like calcium and sodium. Don't miss out as we inv...

216: 12 Days of Nutrients - Day 3 Potassium 11.12.2023

Join us as we dig into the role of potassium on your farm. Rod covers the importance and potential misuse of this essential nutrient. Discover how potassium plays a crucial role in plant growth and farm profitability. The cation exchange capacity (CEC) of soil and its role in determining potassium availability. Listen in as we discuss how maintaining a proper balance between potassium and magnesiu...

215: 12 Days of Nutrients - Day 2 Phosphorus 08.12.2023

On this episode, we turn our attention to the critical role of phosphorus in crop production. Listen in as we share valuable insights on the significance of phosphorus in crop development, and its importance for photosynthesis, respiration, and energy storage. Uncover the reasons why using orthophosphate ions for plant uptake can make all the difference in raising yields profitability. Join us in...

214: 12 Days of Nutrients - Day 1 Nitrogen 06.12.2023

Join us on this episode as we kick off our 12 Days of Nutrients series, where we're starting with the big one - Nitrogen. Listen in as we uncover the importance of this essential nutrient for plant growth, discussing everything from fertilizer labeling to the preferred form of nitrogen for corn. We will also discuss the symptoms of nitrogen deficiency so listen in as we also reveal the effects...

213: Does Your Farm Need More Than Just NPK 04.12.2023

Join us as we interview Dalton, a first generation farmer. He shares how he got started farming, his passion for production ag and the steps he is taking to take his yields to the next. He also shares his experience of reaching out to A Better Way to Farm and the lessons he has learned. If you're looking for off farm income Dalton also shares the benefits of being part of a team that prioritiz...

212: Common Missteps in Soil Testing That Are Costing You Money 27.11.2023

You're in for a treat today as we sit down with Jim Grilliot from Midwest Labs, a leading authority on soil, water, and food testing. We cover everything from the history of Midwest Labs and their impressive growth since 1975 to their stringent quality control measures. Jim pulls back the curtain on the critical role of calibration and check samples in their operations. We shed light on how th...

211: The Complete Guide To Reading Your Soil Test 20.11.2023

Today we decode the secrets of reading your soil tests and how you can dramatically increase yield and profit on your farm. From understanding what a complete soil test is, and the importance of pH, to the often-overlooked role of micronutrients - this episode has it all. We are going to present a cost-effective comparison of grid sampling versus equal opportunity nutrition. We also share one exam...

210: Your Roadmap to Maximizing Yield in 2024 13.11.2023

Today we’re helping to create a roadmap to help boost your yield goals next season using soil testing as the compass. Rod and guest Preston Grobe reveal cost-effective strategies to maximize your hard work. We'll walk you through preparing for success in 2024. So, get ready to join us on this journey to maximize farming success and profit.

209: Would Off Farm Income Help You? 06.11.2023

Join us as Rod, the driving force behind 'A Better Way to Farm', talks with Tyler about his transition from a corporate job to entrepreneurship. Tyler shares how he helps clients to maximize profits on the farm and generate off-farm income. Find out how the team provides training and support to those eager to enter into ag entrepreneurship. We offer not just income but a network of connect...

208: Can You Cut Your Nitrogen Rate 30.10.2023

In today’s episode, Rod sets down to talk with Dr. Richard Mulvaney to talk about the new research that he is doing with nitrogen. Can your farm cut nitrogen usage rates? Listen in as we tackle one of the top nutrients used by farmers. Can you regain control of your farm inputs to maximize your profits by cutting your rates? Discover the results from four studies that show low uptake efficiency fr...

207: Recommendations Without Diagnosis is Malpractice 23.10.2023

Today we are unraveling the similarity between the medical world and agricultural consulting. You’ll walk away with a fresh perspective that'll make you rethink your interactions with your Ag input suppliers and consultants. No more 'prescription without diagnosis' - we're advocating for a deeper understanding of your farming operation, much like a doctor would with a patient. You&...

206: To Bale Or Not To Bale?: Weighing Your Options To Maximize Farm Profits 16.10.2023

How often do we pause and think about the science that goes behind enhancing microbial growth on our farm? Are we consciously evaluating the value of nutrients being extracted from the soil, not just focusing on the cost of inputs? It's a solo flight episode this time with Tyler as he jumps into these essential questions. Before you make any decisions about the stover dilemma, take a step back...

205: Ensuring Grain Bin Safety For You During Harvest Season 09.10.2023

Listen in as we explore the critical and often overlooked aspect of grain bin safety with our guest, Jack Volz. Jack, a firefighter with over 30 years of experience, offers valuable insights on grain bin safety, entrapment and grain spoilage. Learn about the potential dangers of grain bin crusting and why it's crucial to understand these risks, especially as harvest season continues. Don't...

204: What Can A Braintrust Do For You? 02.10.2023

Tune in as Rod has a conversation with agribusiness advisor and licensed attorney, Clint Fisher. Discover the ins and outs of starting an off farm business, overcoming financial hurdles, and making the most of your succession planning. He shares his expertise on constructing a plan ensuring the farm legacy proceeds with the succeeding generation. This episode is filled with practical advice whethe...

203: A Deep Dive on Drones 25.09.2023

Join us as we sit down with Chris Wilson and Preston Grobe, who both have real world experience in the aerial application world. They share insights on the immense opportunities available in this industry and how drones are empowering farmers with greater control over timing and efficiency as well as off farm income opportunities. If you’re looking for ways to scale up, tune in to learn more on us...

202: Fertilizer Facts For Max Yields and ROI 18.09.2023

Get ready to uncover the truth about the so-called 'free fall of fertilizer' as Rod and Tyler discuss a recent article from a major brand. In this episode we cover why we place emphasis on soil tests and addressing limiting factors rather than focusing on margins and sales tactics. We believe it’s important to guide farmers in making informed choices based on data and proven results. So, i...

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