Successful Farming Podcast

In today’s episode, host Dave Mowitz sits down with machinery market expert Andy Campbell to discusses the current market trends for used row crop tractors, including supply and demand dynamics, valuation factors, and strategic buying tips. They share insights on depreciation, model preferences, and how technology impacts tractor value, providing valuable guidance for farmers and dealers alike. Le...

Heavy rains can carve deep gullies and wash away valuable topsoil, especially in low-lying areas where water concentrates. In this Successful Farming Saturday Short, NRCS agricultural engineer Wayne Bogovich explains how grassed waterways slow water flow, reduce erosion, and protect field productivity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In today's episode, Lorrie Boyer is joined by Iowa State University expert Mark Licht who shares insights on planting progress, stand establishment, early emergence, and replant decisions, helping farmers optimize yield and manage risks effectively. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A uniform seedbed starts with properly leveled tillage equipment. In this Successful Farming Saturday Short, Iowa State University specialist Ryan Bergman explains why leveling your implement front to back and side to side is critical for consistent soil depth and accurate seed placement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Human Interest: In today’s episode, Lisa Foust Prater sits down with Michele Payn, longtime agriculture advocate and author, to discuss the growing influence of food misinformation, the importance of farmer storytelling, and how stress impacts today’s agricultural families. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A soil test is one of the most important tools for managing fertilizer costs and improving profitability — but accuracy starts with proper sampling. In this Successful Farming Saturday Short, University of Minnesota nutrient management specialist Dan Kaiser explains why sampling depth matters, how many cores to take for reliable results, and why timing after manure or fertilizer application can im...

Today, Lisa Foust Prater explores the impactful work of the Trees That Feed Foundation, focusing on agroforestry, food security, and sustainable farming practices in tropical regions. Mary and Mike McLaughlin share their journey, innovative solutions, and success stories that demonstrate how trees can transform communities and combat hunger. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.c...

Double drop deck, or lowboy, trailers are essential for hauling heavy farm equipment — but buying used requires a careful inspection. In this Successful Farming Saturday Short, machinery expert Dave Mowitz explains key features to evaluate, including load capacity, frame condition, and detachable gooseneck components. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In today’s episode, host Dave Mowitz sits down with machinery market expert Andy Campbell to take a deep dive into the cotton equipment market and the forces shaping its future. From the history of cotton pickers and ginning to today’s supply and demand challenges, they break down what’s driving equipment values and availability across the U.S. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoice...

Rising demand for plant-based protein is putting field peas in the spotlight as a profitable crop option. In this Successful Farming Saturday Short, North Dakota State University agronomist Greg Endres explains how growing interest in pea protein — found in foods like cereal, protein bars, and health drinks — is creating new opportunities for farmers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcas...

In today's episode Lorrie Boyer is joined by Gary Schnitkey from the University of Illinois discussing best practices for cover crop termination, timing strategies, and their impact on crop yields and soil health. Learn how to optimize cover crop management for maximum benefit and minimal risk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If your pond is full of fish, it could also be full of opportunity. In this Successful Farming Saturday Short, LSU AgCenter aquaculture expert Greg Lutz explains how fee fishing operations can generate extra income by opening private ponds to paying anglers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In today's episode, Lorrie Boyer is joined by Carly Lewis, an account manager and certified crop advisor at Livestock Water Recycling. They discuss innovative manure management technologies, their environmental benefits, and revenue opportunities such as carbon credits. Discover how these systems are transforming livestock agriculture into a more sustainable and profitable industry. Learn more abo...

Hauling water or liquid chemicals on an ATV or UTV? That sloshing load can quickly turn dangerous. In this Successful Farming Saturday Short, Iowa State University safety specialist Chuck Schwab explains how liquid tanks change a vehicle’s center of gravity and create “live loading” that can lead to rollovers. Learn why weight distribution matters, how baffles improve stability, and what to check...

In this episode, Lisa Foust Prater sits down with Tara Vander Dussen and Natalie Kovarik to discuss why agriculture is in a unique cultural spotlight — and what farmers should do with it. From increased consumer curiosity about food sourcing to national attention on ag events like CattleCon, the conversation explores how producers can use this moment to build trust, transparency, and stronger publ...

It’s bull buying season, and choosing the right sire can shape the future of your herd. In this Successful Farming Saturday Short, Scott Greiner of Virginia Tech explains why cattle producers must start with clear breeding objectives before stepping into the sale barn. Learn how to evaluate pedigree, performance data, calving ease and birth weight EPDs, and why a breeding soundness exam is essenti...

Welcome back to the Successful Farming Podcast, in today's episode, commodity market experts Nick Repke and Bob Linneman discuss how the war in the Middle East is impacting crude oil, grain prices, and farmer marketing strategies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Late-model self-propelled sprayers are in tight supply — and packed with features that can dramatically impact price. In this Successful Farming Saturday Short, machinery expert Dave Mowitz explains why comparing sprayers isn’t as simple as looking at hours, and how added technology and options can mean a $20,000–$30,000 price difference. Learn how to narrow your search, build your own price guide...

Live from Commodity Classic 2026 in San Antonio Texas, Dave Mowitz and Andy Campbell talk about all aspects of the current used machinery markets in 2026. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In today's epsiode, we break down the latest data on inventory declines—16% for high horsepower tractors, 20% for compact utility, and even semi-trucks shrinking by 20%. Learn why late-model, low-hour machines are holding strong despite overall softness, and why timing your upgrade now could save you big. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sunflowers are more than a bright spot in the field — they’re becoming a profitable alternative crop across the central U.S. In this Successful Farming Saturday Short, John Sandbakken of the National Sunflower Association explains the surge in sunflower acres, driven by strong demand for sunflower oil and its healthy, high-oleic profile. Learn where sunflowers grow best, what challenges to conside...

In todays podcast Lorrie Boyer is joined by Wesley Everman, an Iowa State University extension weed specialist to talk through the keys to early season weed control. They break down why starting clean protects yield potential, how burndown timing and tank mixes impact effectiveness, and why residual herbicides are becoming more critical as resistance pressures grow. Learn more about your ad choice...

Building long-term equity on the farm starts with how you manage profits. In this Saturday Shorts episode, Iowa State University ag business specialist Kelvin Leibold explains how retained earnings, debt reduction, and strategic spending decisions can strengthen your operation’s financial future. Learn why top producers focus on small, consistent gains—like savings on inputs, machinery costs, and...

Welcome back to the Successful Farming podcast. In this episode, Lisa Foust Prater is joined by Ryan Dennis, author of Barn Gothic & The Milk House, for a conversation about the highs and hardships of dairy farming and how family, economics, and identity are all tied to life on the farm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Electricity keeps the farm running, but downed power lines can turn deadly fast. In this Saturday Shorts episode, University of Nebraska safety specialist Aaron Yoder shares what to do if you encounter a fallen line in the field or from inside a vehicle. Learn why you should never assume a wire is safe, when to stay put and call for help, and how to properly move away if you must exit equipment. L...