• 406 - How Water Scarcity Is Reshaping U.S. Agriculture and Land Values | Damian Mason Podcast
    Jul 14 2025

    Water is the most critical—and increasingly scarce—input in the Business of Agriculture. Yet, it is rarely given true economic value until it becomes limited. In this episode, Damian Mason is joined by Val King of the North Coast Water Association to discuss how water access is transforming the future of American farming. They explore the economic, environmental, and regulatory challenges tied to diminishing water supplies. Learn why some crops will disappear from traditional growing regions, how farmland values are already being impacted by water scarcity, and what adaptive strategies producers must consider in a future defined by water regulation. This conversation offers essential insights for ag professionals, landowners, and policymakers navigating the realities of a water-constrained agricultural future.

    The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:

    • NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com
    • Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com
    • Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com

    Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.

    This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.

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    51 mins
  • 405 - Rethinking U.S. Farm Policy: Radical Ideas for Reviving Rural America | Damian Mason Podcast
    Jul 7 2025

    Is it time to radically reform American agriculture policy? In this compelling episode, Damian Mason speaks with Agritopia author Dave Savage, who outlines his bold vision for a more resilient and equitable rural economy. Savage critiques major pillars of the current farm system—including crop insurance subsidies, the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), and tax-deferred land exchanges—arguing that these mechanisms hinder opportunity for small and mid-sized producers. Backed by decades of industry insight, Savage presents thought-provoking reforms aimed at revitalizing rural communities, restoring land access for working farmers, and re-aligning federal programs with long-term sustainability and economic health. This lively and informed discussion challenges conventional thinking in agricultural policy and offers a blueprint for real change in American production agriculture.

    Key topics covered:

    • Federal subsidies and unintended consequences
    • Land ownership barriers for next-gen farmers
    • Reforming the Conservation Reserve Program Tax policy and land speculation
    • Building a viable future for mid-sized farms

    Whether you are an agribusiness professional, policy stakeholder, or engaged producer, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of American agriculture.

    The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:

    • NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com
    • Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com
    • Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com

    Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.

    This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • 404 - Financing New Ag Ventures: Alternative Capital for Growth | Damian Mason
    Jun 30 2025

    In an ever-changing Agricultural marketplace, opportunities arise that didn’t exist just a decade or two ago. The internet, along with a more diversified and demanding consumer, provide viable business options. But these ventures need money to flourish and these businesses might not be a fit for traditional bank lending. That’s where alternative financing can allow Agricultural business ideas to grow wings. Damian talks to Perennial Pastures founder Kevin Muno, Harvest Returns CEO Chris Rawley, and Ag investor Bryan McGurk. Tune in for an informative conversation about Ag’s future and the evolution of financing Agribusiness.

    The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:

    • NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com
    • Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com
    • Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com

    Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.

    This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.

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    58 mins
  • 403 - Measuring Sustainability — From Overused Marketing Phrase to Actual Monetization
    Jun 23 2025

    Face it, the word “sustainable” has been so overused as marketing jargon, it’s become meaningless. But what if farmers could accurately measure their sustainability? What if Agriculture could communicate our sustainability to customers with verifiable numbers? Then — the cherry on top — what if we could profit from our sustainability practices by differentiating products by degrees of sustainability in the production process? In the era of Artificial Intelligence and technological advancement, measuring and monetizing sustainability is a reality. Ben Bardsley, founder of BX discusses the future of sustainability price premiums with Damian Mason.

    The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:

    • NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com
    • Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com
    • Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com

    Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.

    This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.

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    47 mins
  • 402 - The High Cost of a Glyphosate Ban for U.S. Agriculture and Consumers | Damian Mason Podcast
    Jun 16 2025

    What would a ban on Glyphosate mean for American agriculture and food production? Damian Mason speaks with Michelle Klieger of Stratagerm Consulting, who recently completed a comprehensive study on the economic and labor impacts of eliminating Glyphosate—America’s most widely used herbicide. Michelle shares the staggering implications for crop yields, labor shortages, and consumer food prices. This episode explores the hidden costs of removing Glyphosate from U.S. farming systems and explains why the herbicide remains vital for sustainable, efficient food production. Essential listening for agribusiness professionals, policy makers, and anyone concerned with food security.

    The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:

    • NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com
    • Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com
    • Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com

    Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.

    This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.

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    50 mins
  • 401 - Tracing Meat Nutrition: From Soil Health to Steak Quality | Damian Mason
    Jun 9 2025

    What determines the nutrient value of meat? Dr. Stephan Van Vliet of Utah State University joins Damian Mason and Iowa farmer Kelly Garrett to explore how soil health, animal diet, and agricultural practices influence the nutritional profile of beef. Discover why not all steaks are created equal, whether grass-fed is truly better than grain-fed, and how flavor connects to nutrient density. This episode dives deep into food systems, lab testing, and whether producers will be rewarded for nutrient-rich meat. A must-listen for agribusiness professionals and progressive livestock producers.

    The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:

    • NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com
    • Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com
    • Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com

    Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.

    This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.

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    46 mins
  • 400 - Future-Proofing Agriculture: Guidance for Ag's Next Generation | Damian Mason Podcast
    Jun 2 2025

    What does the next generation of agricultural professionals need to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving industry? In this milestone 400th episode of The Business of Agriculture, Damian Mason is joined by Tanner Winterhof and Corey Hillebo from Farm4Profit to share critical insights for young people entering the ag sector. Drawing from decades of experience, these seasoned ag professionals discuss how technology, business acumen, and adaptability have reshaped farming—and what tomorrow’s leaders must understand to thrive. This episode offers practical advice, industry foresight, and a candid conversation about preparing successors in the world’s most essential business.

    The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:

    • NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com
    • Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com
    • Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com

    Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.

    This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • 399 - Bullish on Corn: Ethanol, Exports & Trade Wins with NCGA CEO Neil Caskey | Damian Mason Podcast
    May 26 2025

    With U.S. corn production projected to hit record highs in 2025, demand questions loom. NCGA CEO Neil Caskey joins Damian Mason to explore the outlook for corn exports, ethanol markets, and the push for sustainable aviation fuel. With domestic livestock numbers down, will global trade and green energy be enough to absorb the surplus? Caskey discusses recent market wins in Britain and India, why ethanol remains critical, and why he stays optimistic about corn's future.

    The Business of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason is Sponsored by:

    • NewFields Ag | https://newfieldsag.com
    • Redox Bio-Nutrients | https://www.redoxgrows.com
    • Harvest Returns | https://www.harvestreturns.com

    Also, make sure to check out DamianMason.com, XtremeAg's The Cutting The Curve Podcast and The Granary.

    This content is protected. ©Damian Mason, all rights reserved.

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    45 mins