XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast

In this episode, Damian Mason talks with Jared Cook of Calibrated Agronomy about “knowledge extinction” in agriculture: the idea that farmers are receiving less meaningful agronomic guidance as input decisions become more price-driven. They discuss how retail consolidation, sales-focused advisory models, and resistance to continued learning can reduce the quality of agronomic decision-making. The conversation emphasizes that modern farming is increasingly knowledge-intensive, and that farmers may need to separate product purchasing from professional agronomic advice while holding advisers to a higher standard of education, accountability, and problem-solving.

In this episode of XtremeAg’s Cutting the Curve podcast, Damian Mason talks with Jared Cook of Calibrated Agronomy about why water quality matters far beyond simple H2O. The discussion explains how irrigation water, spray water, and even rainwater can carry mineral and biological “baggage” that affects soil balance, nutrient availability, herbicide performance, and crop management decisions. Jared outlines how calcium, bicarbonates, nitrate, sulfur, and other constituents in water can act like hidden fertilizer inputs or create antagonism that ties up nutrients and reduces product efficacy. The episode emphasizes testing each water source, understanding application volume and frequency, and using water amendments or adjuvants when needed to improve agronomic outcomes.

At Commodity Classic, Damian Mason speaks with Kansas farmer and Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission chairman Brant Peterson and Texas Panhandle producer Jason Birkenfeld about the future of grain sorghum. The discussion focuses on sorghum’s drought tolerance, lower water requirements compared to corn, and expanding opportunities in livestock feed, forage silage, ethanol, exports, and food-grade markets. As irrigation challenges grow across the Plains, farmers are increasingly evaluating sorghum as a water-efficient crop that can support beef, dairy, and poultry production. The episode highlights how stronger domestic demand, improved feed processing, agronomic research, and global trade relationships could shape the future growth of grain sorghum acreage.

Are farmers actually reducing crop stress… or just reacting to it after the damage is already done? That’s the question Damian Mason throws out during this live panel at the Nachurs booth at Commodity Classic with Matt Miles, Johnny Verell, Temple Rhodes, and Tommy Roach. The conversation covers everything farmers deal with every season—too much rain, not enough rain, weak roots, high nighttime temps, and nutrient timing. The panel digs into why stress mitigation is real, but it rarely comes from a single product. It comes from better plant nutrition, stronger root systems, spoon-feeding nutrients when the plant actually needs them, and staying proactive instead of trying to fix problems after the crop starts slipping.

At Commodity Classic, a panel featuring Kelly Garrett, Chad Henderson, and Kevin Matthews digs into one of the most overlooked problems in crop production—nutrient imbalance. The conversation goes beyond the usual N-P-K talk and gets into the real challenge farmers face: how micronutrients, timing, and plant demand all work together to determine whether fertilizer actually turns into yield. From SAP analysis and sulfur shortages to the hidden cost of applying fertility all up front, the panel shares what they’ve learned the hard way about feeding the plant, not just the soil—and why fixing imbalance can mean more bushels without spending more money.

In this episode, Damian Mason speaks with Texas farmer Todd Kimbrell, who operates 70 miles south of Dallas and grows corn, wheat, cotton, and double-crop sesame—all without irrigation. Todd outlines the unique production calendar and environmental challenges he faces compared to farmers in the Midwest, including early planting windows, reliance on rainfall, and crop marketing strategies influenced by distinct regional market forces. The conversation highlights the importance of tailoring farm management decisions to local conditions, especially in areas with differing weather patterns, soil profiles, and crop maturity timelines.

Using Carbon Technology to Improve Nutrient Uptake and Reduce Inputs With increasing economic and environmental pressure, American farmers are seeking ways to improve crop nutrition without increasing reliance on synthetic inputs. One promising solution? Carbon-based soil amendments. In a recent episode of Cutting the Curve, Arkansas farmer Matt Miles joined host Damian Mason, alongside Brad Benson and Brandon Laws of Activated Carbon Technologies (ACT), to discuss how carbon amendments are helping farmers optimize nutrient use and improve yields using the fertility already present in their soil.

Are You Losing Corn Yield to Disease Without Knowing It? In 2025, many row-crop farmers across the Midwest experienced surprising yield losses—not due to lack of fertility or weed control—but because of unmanaged or mistimed corn disease pressure. From southern rust reaching further north to recurring outbreaks of tar spot, growers were challenged with invisible yet economically significant threats to plant health and grain fill. In this episode of Cutting the Curve, host Damian Mason is joined by Adam Byrne of FMC and Kelly Garrett, a founding member of XtremeAg, to discuss how farmers can reduce corn yield loss from disease through timely scouting, hybrid selection, fungicide strategy, and more.

In this episode, Damian Mason hosts a discussion with Temple Rhodes, Chad Henderson, and Nachurs agronomist Tommy Roach, focused on re-evaluating common fall fertility practices. The group addresses the economic inefficiencies and agronomic downsides of outdated fertilizer applications, particularly the tendency to broadcast fertilizer in the fall without tying it to actual nutrient demand. By breaking down the science of nutrient timing, placement, and environmental risks, the conversation encourages farmers to adopt more precise, ROI-driven fertility strategies. Insights include alternative methods, the impact of soil conditions, and how evolving from habit-based practices can improve profitability.

Know Your Seed Treatment: Why It Matters More Than Ever In modern agriculture, seed treatment has evolved from an optional layer of protection to a critical component of crop success. Yet many farmers are still in the dark about what's actually on the seed they plant. In this episode of XtremeAg’s Cutting the Curve, host Damian Mason speaks with Paul Johnson, a 30-year industry veteran and Seed Treatment Portfolio Manager at UPL, to break down the practical, economic, and agronomic reasons for paying closer attention to seed treatments. Seed Treatment: The Foundation of a Successful Crop Just as a quality home depends on a solid foundation, Johnson explains that the early-stage protection provided by seed treatments sets the tone for the rest of the season. Seed treatments act as the plant's first line of defense against below-ground and early-season threats — including fungi, insects, nematodes, and environmental stressors like cold, wet soils. A strong start often translates to more uniform emergence, improved root development, and faster canopy closure — all of which contribute to better weed suppression and nutrient uptake. Are You Getting the Right Treatment? While virtually all commercial seed arrives treated, Johnson emphasizes a key point: most growers do not know what active ingredients are included — or if those ingredients match their specific field pressures. Fungicides, insecticides (often neonics), and nematicides are common treatment categories, and even inoculants or biologicals may be applied. However, without asking detailed questions, farmers may unknowingly plant into problem-prone areas without adequate protection. Farmers often assume treatment is standard and sufficient. Johnson challenges this assumption, urging producers to work with their seed dealer or ag retailer to understand and — if needed — customize their treatment package. The Economics of Seed Treatment According to Johnson, seed treatments remain one of the most cost-effective inputs in a grower’s portfolio. For soybeans, a solid treatment package typically costs $6–9 per acre and can yield a consistent 3–5 bushel advantage — easily translating to a 4:1 or greater return on investment. For corn, the cost is often included in the base seed price, but additional nematicide or biological treatments may add $4–5 per acre. Trials conducted by farmers have even shown occasional outlier gains — in some cases, up to 20 bushels per acre — though such results are not typical. Nematode Control: The Overlooked Yield Robber One of the most under-recognized threats in soybean production is nematodes, particularly soybean cyst nematode (SCN). Despite being the top yield-limiting pest in many regions, most growers are unaware of the nematode pressure in their fields. Johnson references tools like the Soybean Cyst Coalition Network, which allows producers to check SCN presence and density by ZIP code. Treatments like UPL’s Aveo nematicide offer targeted protection, but only if the farmer knows to request them. Left unchecked, nematodes damage roots, reduce nutrient uptake, and create pathways for secondary diseases. Field-Specific Prescriptions and Timing Seed treatments are not one-size-fits-all. Johnson stresses the importance of treating seed according to specific field conditions, such as cold soils, pythium-prone areas, or known nematode hotspots. Retailers can often adjust treatment mixes or rates if asked, providing customized protection at planting. He also notes that seed treatments are most effective when applied to fresh seed close to planting. While some farmers worry about treating seed late in the season due to possible returns, modern "on-demand" treating equipment makes it easy to apply treatments only as needed — avoiding loss of investment while still getting full protection. Future Trends: Nutrient Efficiency and Biologicals Looking ahead, Johnson predicts that seed treatments will increasingly support nutrient efficiency, particularly through enhanced root development. Larger and more fibrous root systems not only improve access to water and fertility but may also enable farmers to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus application without sacrificing yield. This aligns with broader agronomic trends seen in XtremeAg trials, where farmers like Kelly Garrett experiment with fertility reductions and soil health improvements to drive ROI. Addressing Resistance Concerns Unlike foliar-applied herbicides, seed-applied products are unlikely to drive pest resistance. Johnson explains that because treatments target only the seed zone — a small, localized area around each kernel — there’s minimal environmental exposure and low selection pressure. This makes seed treatment a sustainable long-term strategy for managing pests without contributing to widespread resistance.

In this episode of Cutting the Curve, Damian Mason speaks with Tommy Roach of Nachurs and Texas farmer Todd Kimbrell about moving away from conventional fertility practices toward more efficient, cost-effective nutrient strategies. The discussion centers on reducing or eliminating fall-applied nitrogen and phosphorus, and instead using in-season applications of micronutrients like zinc, sulfur, boron, copper, and potassium acetate. Kimbrell shares his transition to foliar feeding, wide drop applications, and targeted nutrient timing. This episode emphasizes the value of rethinking traditional approaches to fertility to improve nutrient use efficiency, soil biology, and return on investment—without increasing input costs. Presented by BASF

Farm financial success requires more than strong yields or land appreciation. In this episode, Damian Mason speaks with Jeff Janssen of JC Ag Financial Services and Iowa farmer Kelly Garrett to explore the elements of a real financial stress test. They cover critical areas like calculating true cost of production, identifying hidden expenses, and managing financial pressure through operational scale and revenue diversification. The discussion also highlights strategic decisions around grain storage, marketing risk, and preparing for conversations with lenders. This episode offers practical, actionable insights to help farmers strengthen cash flow management and improve long-term profitability.

In this episode of XtremeAg’s Cutting The Curve, host Damian Mason is joined by Kelly Garrett and TJ Kartes of Bio Till to explore how farmers can achieve better results with cover crops by moving beyond cereal rye. The discussion focuses on reducing disease risks, improving nutrient cycling, and tailoring cover crop strategies to specific cropping systems. The conversation also covers the benefits of interseeding, chemical program compatibility—especially related to atrazine—and how diverse mixes including oats, brassicas, and peas can enhance soil health, livestock feed options, and overall return on investment. Farmers are encouraged to consider both agronomic data and future regulatory trends in planning their cover crop systems.

In this episode of Cutting the Curve, Damian Mason speaks with South Dakota native Derek Skogsberg about building a modern, financially viable farming operation while living out of state. With a professional background in agronomy and agribusiness, Skogsberg shares how he returned to his family’s legacy farmland after decades in other industries, creating a business model that balances investment, operational efficiency, and generational preservation. Farming approximately 1,000 acres—half owned, half family-managed—Skogsberg details the transition from investor to operator, the importance of pro forma financials, equipment investments, hiring the right personnel, and using tools like John Deere Operations Center to farm remotely. He emphasizes treating the operation as a standalone business and offers key insights for families considering a non-traditional path to maintaining farm viability.

In this episode of Cutting the Curve, host Damian Mason is joined by Temple Rhodes and Barrett Ersek to explore the concept of "Thriveability" — a farmer-driven mindset focused on improving soil health, reducing inputs, and enhancing long-term economic outcomes. Barrett, founder of Holganix, explains how the company has shifted from selling crop inputs to becoming a partner in soil health by leveraging microbial technologies, intensive data collection, and prescriptive agronomic support. Temple shares real-world results from implementing Holganix's fall and spring biological products, including measurable gains in soil structure, water infiltration, and crop performance. The conversation highlights how integrating soil health strategies into a farming operation — paired with quantifiable metrics and optional carbon credit opportunities — can deliver immediate and long-term financial returns while improving the resilience of the land.

In this episode of Cutting the Curve, host Damian Mason discusses the results of the Economic Fertility Challenge with farmer Johnny Verell and agronomist Stephanie Zelinko. The challenge, conducted in partnership with AgroLiquid, aimed to maximize wheat yields with a $30 foliar fertility spend per acre. Johnny Verell achieved the highest yield at 114 bushels per acre and won on both yield and ROI, outperforming fellow farmers Kelly Garrett and Temple Rhodes. The discussion highlights strategies such as spoon-feeding nutrients, leveraging crop tissue testing, and aligning applications with growth stages. Despite depressed commodity prices and high input costs, targeted foliar nutrition proved to be a viable approach to maintaining yields while managing budgets.

In this episode of Cutting The Curve, Damian Mason hosts Temple Rhodes, Chad Henderson, Kevin Matthews, Joe Leslie, and agronomist Stephanie Zelinko to discuss the Economic Fertility Challenge—a collaborative in-furrow fertility trial with AgroLiquid, aiming to maximize ROI under a $40/acre fertility budget. The challenge was conducted on irrigated corn with a 300-bushel yield goal, testing varied nutrient strategies across different farms without revealing treatment identities to eliminate bias. The discussion emphasizes budget-conscious fertility planning, precision placement, and how real-world application on different soil types impacts results. Farmers share insights on phosphorus prioritization, micronutrient selection, and the efficiencies gained from targeted in-furrow applications—highlighting that agronomic effectiveness and profitability can be achieved even under financial constraints.

In this episode of Cutting the Curve, Damian Mason hosts Temple Rhodes and agronomist Rebekah Muench of Concept Agritek to address how growers can reduce phosphorus fertilizer costs without sacrificing yield. With phosphorus sources like DAP and MAP becoming prohibitively expensive, the conversation centers on improving phosphorus efficiency by unlocking tied-up nutrients in the soil, utilizing banded and seasonally timed applications, and enhancing microbial activity through residue management. Muench explains the science behind phosphorus availability and tie-up, while Rhodes shares practical methods from his own operation, including a transition to liquid fertility, pH optimization, and spoon-feeding nutrients during key growth stages. The episode offers practical, cost-saving strategies to maximize phosphorus ROI under tightening margins. Presented by BASF

In this episode of Cutting The Curve, host Damian Mason is joined by Kevin Matthews and Jeremy Geerts from SprayTec to explore the hidden costs and risks associated with foam in spray applications. Excess foam in the spray tank can reduce effective volume, distort herbicide rates, tie up active ingredients, and cause off-target environmental contamination. The conversation outlines how foam affects agronomic performance and profitability, including increased risk of weed resistance and wasted product. Jeremy provides insights into proper tank mixing practices and how SprayTec's FullTec adjuvant supports foam mitigation and water conditioning. Kevin shares real-world management tips to ensure accurate applications and improved efficacy.

In this special edition of Cutting the Curve, Damian Mason sits down with the next generation of XtremeAg contributors—Connor “Vern” Garrett, Alexander Evans, Danielle Venable, Jackson Henderson, and Layne Miles—joined by Caleb Coots of Teva Ag. The discussion centers on adaptability in agriculture: economic pressures, changes in herbicide regulations, evolving input strategies, and shifting mindsets. With real-world examples from each operation, the group explores how young ag professionals are responding to tighter margins, input bans, changing technologies, and the stress of expansion. They also challenge conventional ideas around growth, highlighting the need for operational efficiency and long-term sustainability. Presented by TEVA

In this episode of Cutting the Curve, host Damian Mason discusses the Economic Fertility Challenge focused on cotton production with XtremeAg farmer Matt Miles and fellow contributors Kevin Matthews, Kelly Garrett, agronomist Stephanie Zelinko, and Gabe Saxon from AgroLiquid. The challenge, held on Matt Miles’ Arkansas farm, tested various foliar nutrition strategies on cotton under a strict $50 per-acre budget. With different teams applying nutrients using alternate timing and formulation methods, the goal was to evaluate return on investment (ROI) and yield efficiency in the face of tightening commodity margins. Despite differences in regional experience and field conditions, all participants emphasized strategic potassium management and spoon-fed foliar nutrition to optimize yields. Results from this collaborative trial offer valuable insights for improving nutrient efficiency and profitability, even beyond cotton.

In this episode of Cutting the Curve, XtremeAg tackles the widespread skepticism surrounding post-patent (generic) crop protection products. Host Damian Mason speaks with Brian Adams of Volunteer Ag Services and Bret Corbett of Albaugh to explore the misconceptions about generics, their formulation quality, and their role in modern farming systems. The conversation emphasizes that while not all generics are created equal, many U.S.-manufactured post-patent products undergo rigorous testing, comply with EPA standards, and often contain updated surfactants and adjuvants. The panel outlines how farmers can confidently adopt these inputs by evaluating product sourcing, compatibility, and supplier credibility—offering a cost-effective strategy in today’s challenging ag economy.

In this candid episode of Cutting the Curve, Damian Mason hosts a roundtable with members of the next generation of agriculture—Alexander Evans, Connor “Vern” Garrett, Danielle Venable, Jackson Henderson, and Layne Miles—joined by Caleb Coots of TEVA Ag. The group shares how they balance personal time with the demands of farming, how their identities are shaped by agriculture, and why building family traditions off the farm is as vital as yield goals. Topics include drag racing, falconry, parenting, mental health, generational expectations, and the pressure to embody the "farmer" identity 24/7. A thoughtful look into how young ag professionals are reshaping what it means to live and work in production agriculture today. Presented by TEVA

In this episode of Cutting the Curve, host Damian Mason is joined by Matt Miles and agronomist Stephanie Zelinko to break down the results of a cotton fertility challenge conducted in partnership with AgroLiquid. The trial, hosted on Matt's farm, tested three fertility programs designed by Matt, Kevin Matthews, and Kelly Garrett, each limited to a $50 foliar application budget with the goal of achieving 1,750 lbs (3.5 bales) per acre. Despite different application timings and nutrient mixes, all three programs yielded strong results, with Matt’s at 1,806 lbs, Kelly’s at 1,800 lbs, and Kevin’s at 1,724 lbs. The key differentiator was nutrient timing, especially consistent potassium and calcium delivery throughout the crop’s reproductive phase. The discussion emphasizes cotton’s high nutrient demands, the role of spoon-fed foliar treatments, and opportunities to trim costs without sacrificing yield by strategically managing application timing and product selection.

In this episode of Cutting the Curve, host Damian Mason is joined by Tennessee farmer Johnny Verell and Keith Miller from Albaugh to discuss how farmers can reduce unnecessary crop protection costs without compromising control. The conversation focuses on leveraging post-patent and rebranded legacy chemistries, improving input planning, addressing water quality factors like pH and hardness, and reevaluating fungicide, insecticide, and herbicide use based on agronomic need. As resistance grows and commodity prices stay low, the episode outlines practical, data-backed strategies to optimize input spend and maintain performance by returning to proven, cost-effective agronomic fundamentals.

In this episode of Cutting the Curve, Damian Mason talks with Todd Dale of Estes Concaves about optimizing harvest operations under variable and adverse field conditions. They discuss the agronomic and economic impacts of inconsistent moisture levels, disease pressure like tar spot and southern rust, and high-yield variability. Todd explains how upgrading to high-performance concaves—like the XPR series from Estes—can improve threshing efficiency, reduce mechanical grain damage, and significantly minimize harvest loss. He outlines how rotor loss, separator hours, and poor grain quality directly affect profitability and trade-in value. The conversation provides clear insight into how mechanical upgrades to combines can drive operational efficiency and protect margins during low commodity pricing cycles. Presented by BASF

In this Cutting the Curve episode, XtremeAg farmers Chad Henderson, Matt Miles, and Temple Rhodes, along with AgroLiquid agronomists Gabe Saxon and Stephanie Zelinko, explore fertility strategies for maximizing double crop soybean yields. Each team worked within a $40 foliar fertility budget, customizing nutrient programs based on specific field conditions and crop goals. Applications were timed at the R3 growth stage to align with fungicide passes and minimize additional fieldwork. Despite environmental constraints—especially heat and limited growing windows—participants pursued combinations of nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, and micronutrients. The trial aimed to evaluate which nutrients, if any, could consistently push yields beyond the common 60–70 bushel range and toward the elusive 80-bushel target in double crop soybean systems.

In this episode of XtremeAg’s Cutting the Curve, Lee Lubbers of Gregory, South Dakota, shares his experience with innovative tile drainage strategies, including in-season installation during planting. Despite conventional wisdom warning against springtime drainage due to compaction and crop loss, Lubbers reports minimal disruption and significant yield improvements. He has installed over 3,000 acres of tile, enhancing soil structure, increasing organic matter, and reducing waterlogging. Alongside ADS representatives Cole Rath and Tim Dahl, the discussion also covers the growing role of water recycling through retention ponds, including collaborative projects that benefit wildlife and neighboring livestock operations. This episode highlights the agronomic, economic, and sustainability benefits of strategic water management. Presented by BASF

In this episode of Cutting the Curve by XtremeAg, host Damian Mason speaks with Kevin Ten Haken, Executive Vice President at Demco, to assess the current state of the farm machinery market amid a challenging farm economy. With lingering impacts from trade disputes, inflationary input costs, and lower farm income following record years, the conversation outlines how machinery purchasing behavior is shifting. Ten Haken provides insight into inventory management, dealer relationships, and manufacturing inputs like steel and aluminum, noting that while material availability has improved, demand has sharply declined. The discussion emphasizes practical purchasing decisions, equipment right-sizing, and the increasing importance of autonomy and repair support as farmers weigh capital expenditures in an uncertain economic climate. Presented by BASF

In this special "Next Generation" episode of Cutting the Curve, the XtremeAg team dives deep into how artificial intelligence (AI) and rapid tech advancements are reshaping agriculture. A roundtable of second-generation farmers—including Jackson Henderson, Layne Miles, Danielle Venable, Alexander Evans, Caleb Coots, and Connor Garrett—discusses the real-world implications of AI in ag operations, from data management and soil recommendations to autonomous equipment and drone scouting. While many acknowledge the potential of AI to enhance efficiency, optimize chemical applications, and reduce labor, they also express concerns about overreliance, information overload, and the risk of diminishing human skill sets. Key takeaways include the need for balanced adoption, integration challenges, and the importance of maintaining agronomic expertise alongside new technologies.

In this episode of XtremeAg’s Cutting the Curve, host Damian Mason is joined by Arkansas farmer Matt Miles and Brian Strider of Holganix for a reflective conversation on the deeper meaning of modern farming. The discussion emphasizes farming with purpose—balancing profitability with long-term soil health, family legacy, and sustainable agronomic practices. Miles shares the generational story of his family farm and the steps he’s taking to prepare the next generation, while Strider highlights the value of biologicals and reducing synthetic inputs. Together, they explore how stewardship, education, and innovation are shaping the future of agriculture. Presented by BASF

This XtremeAg Cutting the Curve episode, hosted by Damian Mason, explores nitrogen use efficiency from agronomic, economic, and environmental perspectives. Kelly Garrett shares how his farm reduces synthetic nitrogen inputs by leveraging soil mineralization and testing, while Scott Lay of Agricen discusses how N-Finity, a biological nitrogen efficiency tool, enhances soil performance through three key modes of action: mineralization, atmospheric nitrogen fixation, and microbial recruitment. Trial results across multiple XtremeAg farms—including those of Kevin Matthews, Chad Henderson, Matt Miles, and Johnny Verell—demonstrate consistent yields with significantly reduced nitrogen use. The episode highlights improved ROI, potential for carbon credits, and the need to proactively adapt to evolving regulatory expectations. Presented by BASF

In this episode of Cutting the Curve, the XtremeAg team dives into the “Economic Fertility Challenge” focused on growing 100-bushel soybeans using only $50 worth of post-applied fertility products. With fertility prescriptions designed by XtremeAg members and applied across irrigated and double-crop soybean plots in North Carolina, the challenge tests practical ROI strategies under varying field conditions. Participants include Kevin Matthews, Chad Henderson, Johnny Verell, Stephanie Zelinko, and Gabe Saxon. The discussion explores nutrient timing, input efficiency, crop yield environments, and data-driven decision-making to help growers optimize fertility spend without compromising performance.

This episode of Cutting the Curve explores the persistent challenges and emerging solutions in nitrogen management for row crop producers. Host Damian Mason is joined by Trey Cutts and Galynn Beer from Tidal Grow to discuss how traditional practices like fall-applied anhydrous ammonia contribute to nitrogen inefficiency and loss. They introduce AlignN, a foliar-applied nitrogen technology designed to improve timing, uptake efficiency, and flexibility. Backed by field trials—including at Mason's own farm—AlignN offers a practical tool to align nitrogen delivery with crop demand, reduce overall application rates, and enhance ROI, particularly in a volatile economic environment. Presented by BASF

In this episode of Cutting the Curve, northern Illinois farmer Grant Strom discusses the practical evolution of his residue management system aimed at improving soil biology and planting conditions. Strom outlines his farm’s transition from conventional tillage to reduced-till and no-till practices, driven by the challenges of managing high volumes of crop residue from higher-yielding varieties. He emphasizes the role of biological products—specifically Holganix Bio 800+ Thrive—in breaking down residue without the need for aggressive tillage. Strom details how timing, temperature, and moisture affect residue decomposition and describes measurable improvements in soil structure, microbial balance, and long-term field performance after implementing the biological program. His insights offer data-backed guidance on managing tough residue, optimizing nutrient cycling, and enhancing overall soil health without compromising yields. Presented by BASF

In this episode of Cutting the Curve, XtremeAg farmers Kelly Garrett, Matt Miles, and Johnny Verell—alongside AgroLiquid’s Stephanie Zelinko and Aarron Stahl—discuss the Economic Fertility Challenge focused on growing high-yield corn with a constrained post-applied fertility budget of $60 per acre. Each farmer approached the challenge differently: Kelly emphasized micronutrient balance guided by SAP testing; Johnny opted for higher volume of core nutrients like phosphorus, calcium, and sulfur; and Matt took a hybrid strategy. Results from past trials showed significant overapplication of nitrogen with little return, prompting a shift toward precision nutrient management using data from SAP and tissue sampling. The discussion highlights the importance of applying the right nutrients, in the right quantities, at the right time—especially under tight commodity pricing. The episode underscores the value of site-specific research, cost-efficiency, and leveraging biologicals and micros for improved ROI in corn production.

In this episode of XtremeAg Cutting the Curve, Johnny Verell and Rodie Jelleberg of Superior Grain Equipment explain how to adapt grain drying systems for wheat, barley, and canola amid high humidity and persistent rain. Verell details how his western Tennessee operation dried two-thirds of their wheat crop to preserve test weight, prevent dockage, and plant double-crop soybeans earlier. Jelleberg offers insight from the Upper Midwest, where growers are modifying standard setups to dry cereal grains due to disease pressure and late-season storms. The conversation highlights efficient low-temperature drying, cost control, and the versatility of modern mix-flow systems in protecting grain quality under challenging harvest conditions. Presented by BASF.

In this episode of Cutting the Curve, host Damian Mason discusses real-world applications of soil moisture and weather monitoring technology with Jacob Appleberry of Live Oak Agronomy and Nick Emanuel, founder of CropMetrics and now with CropX. The episode focuses on integrated soil sensors and weather stations used across 18,000 acres, providing key insights into irrigation timing, fertility planning, and root development. Appleberry shares his firsthand experience deploying over 20 sensors on irrigated and dryland farms, including work with XtremeAg’s Matt Miles. Emanuel explains how the CropX platform combines hardware and AI-powered software to simplify decision-making and improve ROI. Whether managing limited water resources or planning early-season fertility, the technology helps farmers make precise, data-driven choices that optimize inputs and protect profitability. Special thanks to the people at BASF for sponsoring The Cutting The Curve Podcast.

In this episode of XtremeAg’s Cutting The Curve, host Damian Mason is joined by Randy Coffee and Trevor Van Loo of Superior Grain Equipment to explore the economics and strategy behind expanding or upgrading on-farm grain systems. They address the growing need for storage driven by increasing yields and limited commercial capacity, even amid low commodity prices. The discussion highlights opportunities to offset investment costs through USDA and FSA loan programs, energy efficiency grants, and smart system design. Efficiency gains from faster unloading, labor reduction, and optimized harvest timing are emphasized. The episode also identifies common pitfalls—such as undersized dryers, sentimental retention of outdated bins, and poor site layout—and provides guidance on planning scalable, future-ready infrastructure. Farmers are encouraged to approach grain system design as a long-term capital investment that pays off in operational efficiency and harvest flexibility. Presented by BASF

In this episode of the Cutting The Curve farming podcast, Chad Henderson and Chase Garner share how to reduce spray water volume without losing coverage or control. By combining water pH adjustment, optimized chemistry, and adjuvant use with crop oil, they achieve low GPA spraying of just 3–6 gallons per acre instead of the traditional 15–20. They explain nozzle selection tips, spray pressure management between 20–28 PSI, and droplet size optimization to ensure consistent weed kill and avoid oil-water separation. The approach improves spray application efficiency, reduces machine hours, and increases acres per load, all while maintaining herbicide performance and lowering fuel use.

In this episode of Cutting The Curve, the XtremeAg team takes on the challenge of how to grow wheat for just $30 per acre—without giving up yield or quality. Hosted by Damian Mason, the discussion features AgroLiquid’s Stephanie Zelinko and Gabe Saxon, along with farmers Kelly Garrett, Temple Rhodes, and Johnny Verell. Their goal? Reach 120-bushel yields while maximizing efficiency. You'll hear how these growers used late-season foliar feeding, nutrient balance, and targeted nitrogen management to enhance both grain fill and protein—while staying under budget. Kelly Garrett shares a standout result: wheat tested at sub-0.4% vomitoxin, compared to widespread 2%+ levels in the region. This episode is packed with takeaways for growers facing input cost pressures and market volatility. If you're serious about increasing ROI and grow big wheat yields efficiently, this one’s a must-listen.

This episode of the Cutting The Curve farming podcast features Damian Mason and Chad Henderson in a forward-looking discussion on the future of farming. They examine how agriculture can solve its recruitment challenges, engage youth in ag, and remain culturally relevant in an era of rapid change. Highlighting Gen Z farming values, social media in farming, and succession concerns, the episode offers strategies to build sustainable ag talent and enhance industry image. If you’re navigating ag labor sustainability or planning for long-term viability, this is a must-listen. This episode is presented by Teva Corporation

Host Damian Mason is joined by Sam Coutu to preview the upcoming Quebec field day focused on corn yield trials. This episode breaks down how real-world, field-proven strategies are tested: skip row versus traditional corn planting, high vs. low population density, soybean fertility management, and the impact of late planting. By leveraging soil test data and cross-regional collaboration with U.S. XtremeAg members, Sam structures agronomic programs that deliver transparent results and actionable insights. Farmers will learn how side-by-side trials and open, bilingual field panels offer both increased yield and cost-effective fertility options, especially valuable in today’s uncertain ag economy. Key topics include managing input availability, reducing population and weather risks, and making smarter seed and fertility choices. Benefit from real farm insights, data-driven decisions, and access to equipment and local dealers. If you want to optimize yield and ROI while seeing what actually works (and what doesn’t), this episode and the event are essential.

In this special edition of Cutting The Curve, the farming podcast previews Johnny Verell's upcoming 2025 field day in Jackson, TN. Verell breaks down how he’s using nitrogen reduction strategies and corn variety trials to manage input costs while improving return per acre. With a focus on planting population trials, biological integration, and drone application in ag, he explains the benefits of split nitrogen use, hybrid-by-zone planning, and See & Spray precision. Listeners will take away insights into reducing fertilizer costs, improving hybrid ROI, and tackling field variability with a data-driven mindset.

This episode of the Cutting The Curve – farming podcast features Texas farmer Todd Kimbrell and his game-changing pivot into sesame farming. Learn how Kimbrell diversified with 1,500 acres of sesame using a specialty contract model that includes Act of God protection and logistical support. With no fertilizer and minimal inputs, he’s seeing $100+/acre returns on fields that used to sit idle after wheat harvest. Discover how dryland crop options, contract farming models, and low-input systems can drive high ROI potential, maximize idle land use, and reduce farm risk in today’s tight-margin ag economy. Presented by Nachurs

This episode of "Cutting the Curve" focuses on the critical role of calcium in crop health and nutrient uptake. Agronomic expert Tommy Roach and farmer Kelly Garrett discuss how calcium, often misclassified and overlooked in row crop management, is essential for cell strength, nitrogen uptake, and overall yield. Despite soil containing adequate levels, calcium's availability and mobility to the plant are limited due to its double positive charge and mass flow dependency, especially under drought conditions. Garrett outlines a comprehensive multi-pass application strategy using both in-furrow and foliar methods, often up to five times per season, emphasizing the use of calcium acetate and proper nutrient pairing - such as boron - to enhance uptake. They advocate for reallocating nutrient budgets to focus on micronutrient balance, supported by real-world results from SAP and tissue testing showing increased ROI and yield improvements. Presented by Nachurs.