We start with Mike Doran—the Sale Manager who’s been at the helm of this event for years—offers an insider’s view of what it takes to make the Sale of Champions a success. From coordinating sponsors and buyers to ensuring the young exhibitors have their moment in the spotlight, Mike’s leadership has helped the IFAA grow its support from $50,000 in its first year to nearly $725,000 annually in livestock sales, scholarships, and awards.

Then, Joe Stien, a young leader who not only captured Reserve Grand Champion honors in the 2024 4-H Market Hog competition but also uses his platform, The Joe Show, to amplify youth voices in agriculture. Joe shares the grind behind the glamour, from early mornings in the barn to the adrenaline rush of the Sale of Champions, and how this event represents years of dedication from youth exhibitors across the state.

We also explore how the IFAA invests in the next generation through over $240,000 in scholarships each year, including the Winner’s Circle Scholarships for students pursuing ag degrees. With stories from the ring, the sale floor, and the scholarship stage, this episode highlights how tradition, community, and opportunity come together to create lifelong impact for Iowa’s ag youth.

Whether you’re a livestock exhibitor, a parent, a sponsor, or just a fan of the Iowa State Fair, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the dedication and teamwork that fuel the Sale of Champions.

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Website: www.Farm4Profit.com

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With nitrate levels making headlines again, Mike doesn’t shy away from addressing Iowa’s Nutrient Reduction Strategy and how his team is driving long-term improvements in water quality. He also explains the real impact of the Choose Iowa branding initiative, how export tracking actually works, and why the Iowa State Fair is one of the best tools for connecting everyday Iowans with agriculture.

We dig into hot-button topics like crop conditions, biosecurity in pork and beef, rural workforce development, and the significance of celebrating Century & Heritage Farms. Whether you’re a farmer, policymaker, or just someone who cares about Iowa’s land and legacy, this episode will give you a timely, no-spin look at the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of Midwest agriculture.

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Don’t forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen!

Website: www.Farm4Profit.com

Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com

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Call/Text: 515.207.9640

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In this episode, we sit down with the co-founders of Map Dot Media, the agency behind viral platforms like Iowa Chill and Midwest Vs. Everybody, to explore their journey from UNI dorm rooms to campaigns with Coors Light, John Deere, and Iowa Pork Producers.

They reveal how a cow breaking through a barn wall (seriously) sparked their first viral moment, why authenticity trumps polish in meme marketing, and what it takes to turn a loyal regional audience into a profitable brand. You'll hear how they’ve balanced humor and heart, built community through content, and are now running festivals, brand activations, and an internship pipeline that’s shaping the next wave of Midwest creatives.

Whether you're a farmer, marketer, content creator—or someone who's ever laughed at “Duck, Duck, Gray Duck”—this conversation is packed with insights on building brands, telling stories, and keeping it real in a world full of filters.

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Website: www.Farm4Profit.com

Shareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.com

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Call/Text: 515.207.9640

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