The Truth About Ag Investment Strategies with Ben Gordon
In this engaging episode of The Truth About Ag, Kristjan and Evan explore agricultural investment with Ben Gordon, CEO and co-founder of Fractal Agriculture. Ben brings his expertise to a wide-ranging discussion on topics crucial for success in both Canadian and US farming sectors. We tackle risk management strategies, the optimal timing for investments, and the complexities surrounding agricultural real estate and maintaining robust cash flows.The conversation also covers essential elements like scaling operations, the impact of having dedicated and competent people, and the significance of strong collaboration in decision-making processes. This episode provides valuable perspectives for anyone involved in agriculture looking to navigate the intricacies of the industry.
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1:04:33
The Truth About Trade, Tariffs & Risk with J.P. Gervais
In this episode of The Truth About Ag, Kristjan and Evan sit down with J.P. Gervais, Executive Vice President, Strategy & Impact, and Chief Economist at FCC (Farm Credit Canada), to break down the economic forces shaping the future of agriculture. As someone who spends his days analyzing trade, policy, and market trends, J.P. brings a wealth of knowledge on how farmers and ag businesses can adapt, innovate, and thrive in an ever-changing global landscape.J.P., Kristjan, and Evan also tackle productivity and leadership, discussing how farm businesses can drive efficiency while balancing long-term growth. They explore how innovation and entrepreneurship are shaping the next generation of agriculture, from new technologies to evolving business models that challenge the status quo. With policy changes constantly shifting the playing field, J.P. also shares insights into how regulatory decisions impact farm operations and what producers can do to stay informed and proactive.
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50:02
The Truth About Ag Tech and Innovation with Leah Olson
In this episode of The Truth About Ag, Kristjan and Evan chat with Leah Olson, Vice President of Customer Experience and Operations at Brilliant Harvest Inc. With a background in agriculture and manufacturing, Leah has led companies through major transitions, turnarounds, and sustainable growth. They discuss how ag innovation has evolved from past generations to today, the role of AI in tackling inefficiencies, and how companies often jump to solutions before fully understanding the problem, highlighting the importance of a problem-first approach in ag tech.
The conversation also explores how AI tools are shaping the industry, helping businesses optimize communication, streamline processes, and enhance decision-making. We get into the evolving relationship between manufacturers, dealers, and farmers, emphasizing the need for better connectivity and practical innovation. With technology advancing rapidly, they discuss what’s working, what’s hype, and how companies can focus on solutions that truly move the needle.
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1:01:47
The Truth About Ag Shows, Networking and Succession Strategies
In this episode of The Truth About Ag, Kristjan and Evan dig into the conversations shaping agriculture's future. They explore the unique value of learning from people outside your immediate industry, as highlighted by programs like TEPAP.
The discussion shifts to the importance of preparation and strategy in an industry full of volatility. From investing during good times to planning for what could go wrong, they emphasize the need to focus on opportunities while staying ready for inevitable challenges.
As the largest fragmentation and estate succession in history approaches by 2033, are those under 50 ready to seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity?
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49:15
The Truth About Driving Change in Agriculture with Kip Tom
In this episode of The Truth About Ag, Kristjan Hebert and Evan Shout welcome Kip Tom, an Indiana-based agricultural leader whose career spans decades of hands-on experience, consulting, and innovation. From starting his journey straight out of high school on the family farm to being considered for roles within the U.S. government, Kip brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to the table.
Together, they discuss the pivotal role of digitalization in transforming decision-making in North American agriculture. Drawing on his global consulting experiences, including lessons from Argentina, Kip highlights strategies for diversification and risk management that are critical for long-term success.