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XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast

XtremeAg: Cutting The Curve Podcast

414 episodes — Page 2 of 9

Farming Podcast | Relay Cropping: Farming Weird With Jason Mauck

In this episode of the Cutting The Curve Farming Podcast, Damian Mason and Kelly Garrett talk with Farm Weird founder Jason Mauck of Gaston, Indiana, about his innovative relay cropping system that grows wheat and soybeans together for 80–90 days. Jason seeds ultra-early wheat in 45″ bands at low rates (300–400K seeds/acre), creating windbreaks and conserving moisture. Soybeans are planted in between at about 160K seeds/acre, with canopy closure by mid-May for effective weed suppression. A single early herbicide pass suffices. This approach reduces seed, herbicide, and fertilizer inputs while improving soil health, moisture retention, and profitability—often surpassing corn in return. Jason shares his vision for relay cropping with corn, cattle, and other systems. Presented by Nachurs.

Jun 19, 202540 min

Farming Podcast | Kelly's Field Day - Cover Crops, Biology & A Soybean Challenge

This episode of the Cutting The Curve – Kelly Garrett and Mike Evans preview Field Day 2025, revealing how SAP testing enables early detection of nutrient needs, helping farmers stay ahead of stress symptoms and make real-time soil fertility management decisions. By focusing on nitrogen assimilation, cover crops, and balanced nutrition, Kelly and Mike demonstrate how data-driven farming leads to measurable improvements... This episode is presented by Nachurs

Jun 16, 202521 min

Farming Podcast | Wet Spring Crop Management Strategies

This episode of the Cutting The Curve – farming podcast tackles Yield Management in Extreme Conditions. With fields underwater and replanting happening twice in some cases, Johnny Verell and Brian Adams break down the agronomic decisions they’re making to rescue yield in a season defined by delays. Listeners will gain insights on fertility management, crop planning, and how to build spring resilience through yield protection tactics. From SAP testing to cotton risk management, this one’s packed with wet-season strategy. Presented by Nachurs

Jun 9, 202533 min

Farming Podcast | Ag Career Advice for Students

This episode of the Cutting The Curve – farming podcast highlights Agriculture Education insights from Connor "Vern" Garrett, an Iowa State agronomy graduate. Garrett shares practical advice for high school graduates and young adults pursuing a future in agriculture. He explains how entering college with general education credits already completed allows students to focus earlier on core ag subjects, saving costs and enhancing learning. Drawing from his personal experience, Garrett emphasizes the importance of hands-on ag experience, networking, and personal growth that comes from time away from home. He encourages exploring diverse ag disciplines such as agronomy, animal science, or ag systems technology, while cautioning against oversaturated tracks like agricultural communications. This episode offers actionable strategies for enhancing career readiness, securing agricultural scholarships, and navigating the realities of modern agriculture with a data-driven, entrepreneurial mindset. Presented by Nachurs.

Jun 2, 202525 min

Farming Podcast | Cotton Trials & ROI Fertility Strategies

This episode of the Cutting The Curve – farming podcast previews the June 2025 XtremeAg field day in McGehee, Arkansas, led by Matt and Layne Miles. Cotton trials are front and center this year. The event highlights ROI fertility strategies, low-nitrogen trials, and partner-led field plots designed to cut input costs and boost yields. Listeners will hear about lessons learned from last year’s plot challenges and get a sneak peek into precision irrigation and harvesting tech that helps farmers improve farm profitability and make data-driven farming decisions. Presented by Nachurs

May 26, 202527 min

Farming Podcast | Dryland Farming Strategies in Texas Heat

This episode of the Cutting The Curve – farming podcast features Todd Kimbrell sharing his strategies for growing dryland corn, cotton, and wheat in the face of extreme Texas heat. Kimbrell explains how early planting, soil conservation practices, and equipment efficiency help him farm without irrigation in unpredictable climates. Listeners will gain insight into Texas dryland farming, specialty crop diversification, and the adaptations that drive success in extreme weather farming conditions. Presented by Nachurs

May 19, 202538 min

Farming Podcast | Cost-Efficient Fertility & 30-Inch Soybeans | XtremeAg

This episode of the Cutting The Curve – farming podcast features Fertilizer for Soybeans trials from Chad Henderson’s 2025 Alabama field day. In this episode of the Cutting the Curve podcast, Chad Henderson previews his May 22, 2025, XtremeAg field day in Madison, Alabama. Key agronomic demonstrations include 30-inch soybean fertility strategies, skip-row and circular corn planting, and strip-till vs. conventional systems. Participating companies—Nachurs, AgroLiquid, Spraytec, ADS, and Concept AgriTek—will showcase input programs focused on plant health, fertilizer efficiency, and real-world application. The event will also explore irrigation water quality testing and its impact on nutrient efficacy. Henderson emphasizes cost-effective practices that preserve yield, offering valuable insights for farmers aiming to boost yields and improve fertility ROI. This podcast episode is presented by Nachurs Bio-K

May 12, 202516 min

Farming Podcast | Fertilizer Compatibility & Crop Protection | XtremeAg

In this episode of Cutting the Curve, Damian Mason talks with Art Graves of Vive Crop Protection about how fertilizer compatibility directly impacts crop protection efficiency and overall farm productivity. The conversation centers on nano-encapsulation technology, which enables crop protection products—such as fungicides—to blend seamlessly with starter fertilizers, avoiding common issues like precipitation, clogging, and inconsistent application. Graves explains how this compatibility supports higher input concentration, reduces unnecessary water hauling, and extends pest protection beyond the initial 21–28 days provided by seed treatments. The episode emphasizes that enhanced compatibility not only improves active ingredient delivery but also supports better root and stalk health, crucial for maximizing yield potential. As the industry moves toward biologicals and precision application technologies, Vive’s nano-polymer approach shows promise for increasing efficacy and consistency across diverse tank mixes.

May 5, 202532 min

Farming Podcast | Hiring an Agronomist for Farm Success | XtremeAg

This episode of the Cutting The Curve - farming podcast features a deep dive into the value of hiring an agronomist. Johnny Verell and Brian Adams explain how to build a support system of consultants, crop scouts, and agronomic advisors that improve efficiency, reduce mistakes, and deliver a better bottom line. Learn what to ask for in a scouting contract, how to measure agronomic ROI, and how the right expert team can scale to any size operation. Presented by Nachurs Bio-K

Apr 28, 202544 min

Farming Podcast | How a Faster Sprayer Fill System Adds Acres & ROI with Temple Rhodes

This episode of the Cutting The Curve farming podcast explores how the faster sprayer system from Dura Products is transforming farm operations by cutting costs and boosting productivity. Temple Rhodes of XtremeAg reveals how his team now fills sprayers in just five minutes, sprays an additional 100 acres per day, and has completely eliminated chemical handling risks. With simplified trailer setups, safer chemical mixing, and a plug-and-play design, this system delivers rapid ROI for both farmers and commercial applicators. If you're looking to maximize sprayer efficiency, this episode delivers the insights you need. Cutting The Curve Farming Podcast is powered by Nachurs Bio-K, delivering enhanced nutrient cycling and increased yields.

Apr 21, 202524 min

Farming Podcast | Farmland Values in 2025: Is a Correction Coming or Just a Plateau?

This episode of the Cutting The Curve Farming Podcast dives deep into farmland values for 2025. Join host Damian Mason with South Dakota farmer Lee Lubbers and First Dakota Bank’s Nathan Sparks as they unpack what’s driving land prices, how rising interest rates are shaping the ag market, and whether a price correction is on the horizon. Learn how to navigate land purchases, leases, and investment planning in today’s complex farm economy. Together, they break down: What’s driving current land prices and rental rates The impact of rising interest rates on ag real estate Why land ownership remains central to a farm’s net worth Whether we’re headed for a 15% correction or continued appreciation Who's really buying farmland—and it's not who you think The role of outside investment, oversupply, and inflation hedging in shaping land trends With perspectives from both sides of the lending desk and insights rooted in decades of real-world experience, this conversation unpacks the economic, emotional, and strategic forces influencing ag land markets as we step into 2025. Whether you're a beginning farmer or a seasoned operator, this is a must-listen if you're trying to navigate land purchases, leases, or long-term planning in today’s market.

Apr 14, 202544 min

Farming Financial Strategies Podcast | Smart Strategies from Commodity Classic 2025 with Kelly Garrett

In this episode of the Cutting The Curve Farming Podcast, Damian Mason sits down with Kelly Garrett to unpack key insights from the 2025 Commodity Classic. In a tight farm economy, it’s not just about cutting costs — it’s about spending smarter. From adjusting input strategies to leveraging cost-saving technologies, Kelly shares practical takeaways that can help you make better financial decisions without compromising performance. Listeners will learn how to effectively manage fertility inputs and boost yields while improving financial performance, all while exploring smart farming financial strategies. Tune in to hear how Kelly is rethinking his farm investments after what he saw on the trade show floor — and how his strategies can benefit your operation too. This episode offers valuable advice for farmers aiming to enhance efficiency and make informed decisions in the face of rising input costs. This episode of Cutting The Curve is presented by Nachurs.

Apr 6, 202518 min

Farming Podcast | Sam Coutu’s Bold 2025 Strategy for April Soybean Planting in Quebec

This episode of the farming podcast delves into soybean planting with Quebec farmer Sam Coutu. He reveals his strategies for April soybean planting, focusing on optimizing fertility timing and adjusting plant populations to boost yields. Additionally, Sam discusses how to effectively utilize recent equipment upgrades to cut costs and enhance crop management. This episode provides valuable insights for farmers looking to improve efficiency and achieve harvest success in 2025.

Mar 31, 202514 min

Farming Podcast | Bringing the Department of Phosphorus Efficiency to Your Farm | Reduce Costs, and Improve Crop Yields

This episode of the Cutting The Curve farming podcast dives into phosphorus efficiency, focusing on how to get phosphorus into soil effectively. Damian Mason hosts experts from AgroTech USA and XtremeAg, who discuss how farmers can raise phosphorus levels in soil through optimized fertility programs. They reveal practical strategies to reduce input costs, improve crop yields, and combat phosphorus deficiency in plants while enhancing soil health. This episode is crucial for anyone looking to boost their nutrient management practices while keeping more money in their pockets.

Mar 27, 202538 min

Ep 162Milo for the Win: Diversification, Lower Costs & Soil Health with Lee Lubbers

Thinking about adding grain sorghum—aka milo—to your operation? Lee Lubbers shares why this crop is a game-changer for his farm. From lower production costs compared to corn to boosting organic matter where soybeans fall short, milo is earning its place in his cropping system. In this episode, Lee talks with Damian about his strategy for maximizing yield and nutrient content to command a premium price. As always, Lee isn’t just experimenting—he’s all in. Tune in to hear how he’s making milo work for his bottom line.

Mar 24, 202530 min

No Flinging! How Temple Is Dialing-In Nutrient Application Strategies in 2025

Temple Rhodes did a large scale trial in 2024 eliminating applied dried fertilizer and replacing it with plant-applied nutrients. It worked. So he’s making some big changes to his nutrient application strategy this year to focus on the crop, not just the soil test. A few side benefits include: reduction of salts in the soil, bigger yields, and less cost. Not to mention increased soil biology which is another focus for the new year. Temple takes a break to talk to Damian about exciting changes coming to Chestnut Manor Farms.

Mar 17, 202535 min

Chad’s 2025 Game Plan: More Strip-Till, Smarter Seed Treatment & Better Data

Strip-till isn’t just about conservation—it’s a game-changer for nutrient availability and soil health. That’s one of Chad Henderson’s key strategies as he heads into the new season. In this episode of XtremeAg's Cutting the Curve, Chad shares why he’s doubling down on strip-till, upgrading his data collection with cost-effective tech for his equipment, and making a major shift from in-furrow application to seed treatments. His goal? Reduce labor, simplify operations, and cut costs without sacrificing performance. If you're looking for practical ways to improve efficiency and profitability on your farm, don’t miss this insightful discussion with host Damian Mason!

Mar 9, 202522 min

Beware of “Saving” Yourself Into a Loss – Matt Miles on Fertility & Rotation Mistakes

Can cutting input costs actually cost you more in the long run? Farmer Matt Miles shares hard lessons from his 2024 season, where saving $50 per acre on potassium ended up costing him $150 per acre in lost yield. He also reveals the hidden costs of skipping crop rotation after a seven-bushel decline in non-rotated soybeans. In this episode of Cutting the Curve, Matt and host Damian Mason break down the true impact of fertility decisions and crop rotation on farm profitability. Tune in for insights to refine your farming and nutritional strategy in 2025!

Mar 2, 202520 min

Cover Crops in Corn: A Radical 2025 Farming Strategy with Kelly Garrett

In this episode of XtremeAg Cutting the Curve, host Damian Mason sits down with Kelly Garrett and TJ Kartes to discuss a bold move for 2025—interseeding cover crops into growing corn as early as June. Kelly shares the agronomic, economic, and sustainability benefits of this approach, from erosion control to carbon sequestration and livestock forage. TJ Kartes of Saddle Butte Ag breaks down the science behind selecting the right cover crop species and dispels common myths about water retention, nutrient competition, and cold climate challenges. Tune in to hear how this strategy could reshape farming practices and improve soil health while increasing ROI. Don't miss this insightful discussion with real-world takeaways for forward-thinking farmers!

Feb 23, 202537 min

Farm Data Management: Are You Maximizing Farm Management Technology for Bigger ROI

Most farms today rely on data management software and on-implement hardware—but are you truly maximizing these tools for bigger returns and streamlined operations? In this episode, Layne Miles teams up with Ryan Stien to break down Deere’s Operations Center and how it helps Miles Farms make smarter, more profitable decisions. As Layne puts it, “If you missed the technology train, grab a cab and go catch it because the train isn’t coming back to the station.” Tune in to learn how leveraging farm data can drive efficiency, boost ROI, and future-proof your operation.

Feb 20, 202531 min

Sprayer Savings: Eliminating Sprayer Passes & Optimizing Nutrient Investment

Johnny Verell is on a mission to trim up to $20 per acre in expenses by strategically adjusting his spraying regimen. By eliminating one sprayer pass and an airplane pass, he’s cutting costs without cutting corners. But instead of simply saving, he’s reinvesting—reallocating his nutrient budget and timing fertility applications based on moisture conditions. In this episode of Cutting the Curve, host Damian Mason sits down with Johnny to discuss smarter spending strategies, maximizing efficiency, and ensuring profitability without sacrificing yield. Tune in to learn how precision adjustments can boost your bottom line!

Feb 16, 202525 min

The Evolution of Autonomy & Farm Machinery Automation

It started with auto steer on tractors — or maybe even before that — where automation ends up, is still an open discussion. Damian Mason hosts that discussion in this episode with XtremeAg’s John Verell and John Deere’s Michael Porter. The evolution of farm machinery automation rolls forward on America’s farms. Johnny Verell explains how autonomy helps him farm better, make more money, and do more work with fewer people. If you’re already on the path to autonomy, listen to what lies ahead. If you’re considering investing in the next phase of automation, listen to this! More podcast episodes here 👉 https://www.xtremeag.farm/podcasts Farming Videos 👉 https://www.xtremeag.farm The Granary 👉 https://www.xtremeag.farm/the-granary

Feb 12, 202526 min

2025 Changes: Strip Tilling Dry Fertilizer & Better Inventory Management on the Farm

Kevin Matthews is shaking up his fertility practices in 2025 with a hybrid approach to crop care. While he remains a firm believer in trickling liquid fertilizer “just in time” for crop development, he’s turning to dry fertilizer to tackle problem areas. But there’s a catch—it requires upgrading to strip-till equipment. In this episode, Kevin shares how he’s streamlining his farm operations, including an eye-opening review of his parts and machinery inventory that revealed unexpected waste. Tune in to hear how these changes aim to boost his farm’s economics and efficiency in the new year.

Feb 10, 202517 min

Farm Finances 101: Working Capital Strategies for 2025

Is your farm financially prepared for 2025? Economic pressures are mounting, and staying solvent requires a solid strategy. In this episode of Cutting The Curve, Jeff Janssen joins Kelly Garrett and Damian Mason to tackle critical topics like working capital, cash flow, cost of production, and aligning your financial goals with your banker’s expectations. From calculating current assets to understanding the hidden costs of stored grain, this discussion delivers actionable insights to maximize your farm’s financial position. Don’t overlook the business side of farming—your legacy depends on it!

Feb 6, 202534 min

Upgrade Your Farm Tech: Precision Ag on a Budget

New paint is sexy. We get it. We’re farmers too and we like shiny new machinery! But farming is a business and a business faced with reduced revenue must make adjustments. How do you stay on the cutting edge of Agricultural technology with older machinery? With precision equipment upgrades, that’s how. XtremeAg’s Kelly Garrett and John Deere’s Clint Chaffer explain how — for a fraction of the price of new — you can update your existing machinery to improve productivity. Proof: Kelly went to the field this spring using a planter with 20 seasons of “experience” but with technological updates added over the years. When farm economics are stressed, precision upgrades help you reduce crop inputs, save time, and farm more efficiently!

Feb 2, 202535 min

Cut Costs Not Profits with These Farming Strategies

Are farm finances tighter than usual? Discover how to save money while maintaining yield and revenue in this must-listen episode. Host Damian Mason talks with XtremeAg’s John Verell and Meristem’s Peter Rousonelos about cost-effective farming practices using the “R’s” of crop cost removal: Reduce, Recycle, Re-use, Repurpose, and Re-Think. Learn innovative ways to cut costs per acre, boost farm profitability, and keep your operation financially sustainable. If you’re a farmer looking for proven strategies to improve farm efficiency and save money, this episode is for you. Tune in for actionable tips and real-world advice on smart farming!

Jan 30, 202527 min

324-Bushel Corn with Only 151 Pounds of Nitrogen? Here’s How!

Award-winning results, less nitrogen. Kelly Garrett, with agronomist Mike Evans, achieved an impressive 324 bushels per acre with just 151 pounds of applied nitrogen—earning him recognition in the National Corn Growers Association’s new Nitrogen Management Class. In this episode, they join Damian Mason to share their game-changing methodology and discuss the future of farming under increased environmental scrutiny. Discover how to optimize nitrogen use, break the over-application cycle, and boost your profitability without compromising yield. If you’re serious about sustainable and profitable farming, don’t miss this episode of Cutting The Curve!

Jan 26, 202530 min

Biological Technology for Bigger Root Mass, More Biomass, and Bigger Yields

Kelly Garrett and Temple Rhodes were both highly skeptical when they received their small plastic bags of pink powder with instructions to treat their seed corn. The pink powder was New Leaf’s bacterial technology, which is now available in products from four different companies. Kelly and Temple share results and lessons from their trials. Both saw a yield response, more roots, and bigger biomass from using the bio stimulant. Kelly intends to use New Leaf’s biological insecticide technology on every corn acre he plants in 2025. We’re talking about biological technology that works and you’re getting the straight scoop. Give this a listen or a watch and share it with someone who can benefit from it!

Jan 22, 202533 min

Maximizing ROI from Precision Ag Tech in the Off-Season

The off-season isn’t just about oil changes and wear part replacements anymore—technology has revolutionized winter prep for farmers. In this episode, Damian Mason is joined by Ryan Stien and Christopher Murray from John Deere to explore how farmers can maximize the return on investment (ROI) from their precision Ag technology during downtime. From software updates to ensuring machinery connectivity and optimizing data for smarter decision-making, they share practical tips and insights to help you gear up for success in the next growing season. Tune in to make the most of your precision tools year-round!

Jan 19, 202527 min

The Road to Regenerative: Why & When Change is Coming to Conventional Farming?

Conventional farming is evolving. Whether driven by regulations, financial incentives, or the undeniable benefits, many farmers are starting to adopt regenerative farming practices. In this episode, Kelly Garrett and Dr. Josh Miller dive into the why and how of this transition. They explore the tangible benefits of soil health, reduced input costs, and participation in sustainability programs, offering insights for those ready—or reluctant—to take the leap. Whether you're curious about the future of agriculture or seeking strategies for adaptation, this episode sheds light on the growing push for regenerative farming.

Jan 12, 202545 min

Continuous Corn: Strategies for Success in Corn-on-Corn Systems

In this episode, Damian Mason talks to Kelly Garrett about why he’s shifting away from soybeans and committing to continuous corn on his farm. From economic advantages to agronomic challenges, Kelly breaks down his decision-making process. Joined by Clint Frese and Mike Evans of Calibrated Agronomy, the discussion dives deep into managing corn-on-corn systems—covering fodder management, soil temperature dynamics, manpower allocation, and marketing strategies. Tune in for actionable insights and proven techniques to make continuous corn a sustainable and profitable choice for your farm.

Jan 5, 202532 min

Farm Economy: Reality, Outlook, and Opportunity

Kevin Matthews has weathered multiple economic downturns in Agriculture. What’s different about this one? He discusses that with Damian Mason in this episode of Cutting the Curve. The two “middle age farm guys" provide historical context and comparison — from the PIK program to revamping CRP, what might the USDA roll out? What tactics can farmers deploy to remain solvent in a challenging farm economy? And most importantly, is there an upside to the downturn? You bet there is!

Dec 29, 202436 min

Harvest Smarter: The Case for Custom Harvesters

Could hiring a custom harvester transform your farming operation? Chad Olsen of Olsen Custom Farms and XtremeAg farmer Lee Lubbers share their insights with Damian Mason in this compelling episode. Chad’s team harvests crops across 17 states, using 90 combines and 80 semi trucks operated by 150 employees. Lee explains how partnering with Chad has boosted efficiency, freed up working capital, and reduced his farm’s financial strain. With on-farm economics tightening, could outsourcing your harvest make more sense than owning your own equipment? Tune in to explore the costs, benefits, and economic realities of custom harvesting.

Dec 22, 202449 min

Precision Farming Secrets: Maximizing Soybean Yields with Perfect Timing & Placement

Farming success hinges on precision, and this episode of XtremeAg’s Cutting the Curve Podcast dives deep into the importance of getting the right source, rate, time, and place for your crops. Host Damian Mason chats with Alabama farmer Chad Henderson, who is pushing the limits with a cutting-edge trial on double crop soybeans. Joined by Drew Ewing from Spraytec, Chad breaks down the critical strategies behind product treatments—especially when time is not on your side late in the season. Discover how the right timing and placement can make all the difference in maximizing yield. Don't miss these expert insights on fine-tuning your approach for better crop performance. Presented by Claas

Dec 15, 202422 min

Wheat Secrets: How Lee Lubbers Makes Money Growing Wheat

Think wheat farming can’t be profitable? Think again. Lee Lubbers, fresh off a victory in the 2024 National Association of Wheat Growers yield competition for South Dakota, joins Damian Mason to share how he hit an incredible 138.35 bushels per acre. From evolving production practices to the strategic use of products and precise timing of applications, Lee reveals the methods behind his high ROI. Tune in for actionable insights and discover how wheat might just be your next winning crop.

Dec 8, 202433 min

Is Your Grain Set-Up Degrading Grain Quality & Costing You Money?

Humidity and temperature management inside your bins are the two most critical factors to maintaining stored grain quality, but they’re hardly the only factors. Mold, toxins, foreign material, leaks, lack of air flow, damaged seed….these are but a few of the problems farmers might face when managing their grain. In this episode, host Damian Mason gets answers on how to maintain grain quality from XtremeAg’s Johnny Verell and Superior Grain’s Dave Wehlander and Rodie Jelleberg. Presented by Simon Innovations

Dec 1, 202423 min

Winter Weed Control: Expert Tips to Protect Your Fields and Boost Spring Yields

Don’t let winter weeds steal your nutrients or turn your field into a springtime nightmare. Join Damian Mason as he talks with farmer Kelly Garrett and FMC's Gail Stratman about why late fall and winter are crucial for weed management. Discover strategies to tackle winter annuals, protect your soil's productivity, and ensure cleaner fields come planting season. From targeting small weeds early to preventing massive infestations, this episode is packed with insights to keep your farm thriving year-round. Presented by CLAAS

Nov 24, 202426 min

Feeding the Crop, Not the Soil: How Activated Carbon Can Revolutionize Fertilizer Use

In production agriculture, improving fertilizer efficiency is more critical than ever, with up to 90% of applied fertility feeding the soil rather than the crop. Could activated carbon be the solution? Brad Benson and Brandon Laws of Activated Carbon Technologies join Arkansas farmer Matt Miles to share results from two years of farm trials that are reshaping how we think about soil health and fertility. Hosted by Damian Mason, this episode dives into the science and strategy behind activated carbon, exploring its potential to reduce fertilizer rates and drive better outcomes for farmers. Presented by Simon Innovations

Nov 17, 202436 min

Harvest Insights: Management Notes from the Combine for a Better Next Year

Fall is one of the busiest times of year for farmers, but it’s also prime time to gather insights that can drive next year’s success. In this episode, Kelly Garrett and FMC's Gail Stratman join Damian Mason to discuss how you can turn real-time observations during harvest into actionable plans that improve yield and profitability. What clues are your crops giving about soil balance, input needs, or even experimental techniques? Discover how to make harvest-time notes work for you, transforming field observations into valuable management strategies for next season’s crop. Tune in and learn how to take notes that pay off.

Nov 10, 202415 min

The Squeeze: Strategies For Surviving the Financial Squeeze in a Downward Farm Economy

As 2024 unfolds, the agriculture industry faces what could be the start of several tough financial years, with farm economics taking a stark downward turn. For many in agriculture, the strains of high input costs, inflated machinery prices, and soaring interest rates are hitting home. What do these economic realities mean for the future of farming? And how does this period compare to previous downturns in agriculture? In this episode, seasoned farmer Matt Miles joins host Damian Mason to explore the impact of economic pressures on the ag industry. They’re also joined by Steve Acker, CFO of Concept AgriTek, who shares insights on variable pricing programs for 2025, where input prices adjust based on farmers' commodity revenue—a potential game-changer in managing costs. Tune in for a candid discussion on practical strategies, financial adjustments, and survival tactics to weather the challenges ahead.

Nov 3, 202448 min

Harvest Tools: Innovations To Gain Harvest Efficiency and Farm Faster

In this episode, we chat with Johnny Verell from XtremeAg, who reveals why your header transport trailer deserves more attention. Johnny shares how adding two high-speed, all-wheel-drive header trailers to his farm transformed harvest season, from speeding up field transfers to cutting down combine idle time. He also added grain tank extensions that have become a game-changer in maximizing machine efficiency. If you want to farm faster and smarter this harvest season, you won’t want to miss Johnny’s insights! Presented by Simon Innovations

Oct 27, 202422 min

Nitrogen Problems: Are you Using More Nitrogen Than You Need?

You’re probably applying too much nitrogen. It’s not your fault, you -- along with most of America’s farmers — have been conditioned to do so. More “N” means more corn, so crank up the “N!” This over- application of Nitrogen is about to come to a halt as nutrient management plans are likely part of future farm legislation. With that in mind, why not cut the curve and start reducing your nitrogen spend now? In this episode Temple Rhodes shares practices he’s employed to reduce “N.” Temple shares results from his three year trial using Source from SoundAg that’s allowed him to reduce nitrogen application while enhancing (rather than degrading) his soil biology. Presented by CLAAS

Oct 21, 202431 min

Grain Storage: Avoid Costly Downtime with These Expert tips

Depending on size and age, you could have more investment in your grain set up than your machinery. But do you maintain it with the same diligence as you tend to your rolling equipment? If your grain dryer, leg, or unloading system goes down during harvest, how much time might this cost you? Superior Grain’s Dave Wehlander and Rodie Jelleberg team up with XtremeAg’s Johnny Verell to run through their pre-harvest punch list for grain storage readiness. Can you afford downtime this harvest? Watch or listen to this to make sure your grain facility if fully functioning and ready to receive your bounty! Presented by CLAAS

Oct 16, 202422 min

Maximize Yield with Less Fertilizer: Proven Results from Field Trials

In this episode of Cutting the Curve, we dive into a groundbreaking fertility reduction trial conducted at Matt Miles' farm in Arkansas. Joined by Kelly Garrett from XtremeAg and AgroLiquid’s Galynn Beer and Stephanie Zelinko, the team tested different fertility prescriptions to see how low they could go while still maintaining strong yields. The surprising result? The lowest fertilizer spend delivered the second highest yield—and the highest profitability. Tune in to learn how you can adjust your fertility program, especially with sub-$4 corn prices in today’s marketplace. Don’t miss this insightful discussion on farming smarter, not harder! Presented by Simon Innovations

Oct 14, 202434 min

Big Planter Upgrades for Big Results: Johnny Verell Reveals The Changes He Made to His Planter in 2024 and the Results He Saw

Johnny Verell is shook things up with some major planter upgrades before the 2024 season. In this episode, Johnny sits down with Damian to discuss his decision to consolidate from three 40-foot planters to two 60-foot planters, along with modifications to his 2x2 application and a shift to wider rows. Johnny shares the reasoning behind these changes and, more importantly, the results he's seeing. If you're thinking about making significant adjustments to your planting strategy, this episode is a must-listen! Presented by Simon Innovations

Oct 7, 202423 min

Rotor Loss: Combine Adjustments to Maximize Harvest Efficiency

Are you leaving money in the field? Harvest loss is a costly problem that too many farmers face, often unknowingly. Kevin Matthews believes, “There is no acceptable loss,” especially when your hard-earned yield is blowing out the back of your combine. In this episode, Kevin and Brian Robertson from Estes Performance Concaves break down the hidden losses happening at the header and inside the combine—also known as "rotor loss"—which can add up to over $8 per acre. Join host Damian Mason as they discuss practical solutions to minimize combine loss and boost your harvest profits. Presented by Simon Innovations

Sep 30, 202433 min

How To Maximize Your Dry Fertilizer Efficiency Without Losing Yield

Thinking about cutting back on dry fertilizer applications to save costs? Before you make a decision, tune in to this episode of XtremeAg’s Cutting the Curve. Host Damian Mason sits down with Kelly Garrett and Scott Lay from Agricen to explore how you can reduce your dry fertilizer usage without compromising yield or depleting your soil. Learn how treating your fertilizer can maximize its effectiveness, boost crop productivity, and even unlock sustainability benefits like lowering your carbon intensity score. Discover how to make the most of your fertilizer investment while staying sustainable! Presented by Simon Innovations

Sep 22, 202426 min

Securing Farm Revenue with Crop Insurance: A No-Nonsense Guide

Crop insurance might not be the most thrilling part of farming, but it’s crucial for long-term success and profitability. In this episode of XtremeAg's Cutting the Curve, Kelly Garrett teams up with financial advisor Jarod Creed of JC Ag Financial Services ([email protected]) to break down how crop insurance and grain marketing can work hand-in-hand to safeguard your farm’s revenue—even when commodity prices fluctuate. They share proven strategies that ensure financial stability for Kelly's Iowa farm, and how you can apply these tactics to your operation. It’s not flashy, but it's all about keeping your farm in the green. Don’t miss this essential conversation! Presented by Simon Innovations

Sep 15, 20241h 2m

How Soil Pathogens Steal Your Yield: Expert Insights to Boost Crop Health

Could hidden pathogens in your soil be silently robbing your farm of yield? According to Kelly Garrett, the impact of soil-borne diseases on his farm was greater than expected after ramping up disease testing this summer. In this episode, Rebecca Helget from Integrated Ag Solutions joins PatternAg’s Mike Tweedy to explore cutting-edge advancements in soil pathogen testing and treatment. Discover how these technologies can help you reclaim lost yield and boost the health of your farm's soil. Don't let hidden threats keep you from maximizing your harvest! Presented by Simon Innovations

Sep 9, 202435 min

Is Tillage Necessary to Prevent Nutrient Stratification?

There’s a fallacy still held by some farmers that fertility doesn’t work if it’s not incorporated into the soil. To that end, Damian Mason posed the question to Vern Garrett: Does tillage fix nutrient stratification? The answer from XtremeAg’s next generation farmer: “Trying to solve nutrient stratification with tillage is kind of like, you stubbed your toe and you decide to cut it off to fix it. You’re making small problem into bigger problems that are hurting you more down the line.” Tune into this for myth busting about nutrient movement as well as some clever comments. Presented by Simon Innovations

Sep 3, 202425 min