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

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

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.

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.

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

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  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In this episode, Damian sits down with Jordyn Burco, a rising star in agriculture, and Mark Coots from Teva Corporation, to explore the future of farming. Jordyn shares her journey of returning to her family farm and the strides she's made over the past five years. The discussion dives deep into the challenges and opportunities of generational hand-offs, the importance of self-assessment in farming, and what the next generation of agriculture looks like. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or simply passionate about the industry, this conversation will leave you inspired and optimistic about the future of agriculture. Don't miss it!   Presented by Simon Innovations

With corn prices dipping below $4, farmers are facing unprecedented challenges. Johnny Verell, who has been trialing various corn strategies over the past five years, joins forces with Brian Adams of Volunteer Ag Service to share how Verell Farms plans to adapt and stay afloat. From innovative approaches to cost-cutting measures, they delve into the tactics that could be the key to surviving—and thriving—in an era of low commodity prices. Tune in to discover strategies that could help your farm remain solvent amidst the downturn.   This Episode is presented by CLAAS  

In this episode, Damian Mason, Chad Henderson and Kevin Matthews dive deep into the "systems approach" to production agriculture, breaking down what this approach entails, starting with the planter and in-furrow practices and carrying them all the way through to harvest. Tune in to learn how this holistic method is revolutionizing the way they manage their crops, leading to greater efficiency and higher yields. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just curious about modern agricultural practices, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of farming.   This episode is presented by CLAAS

Matt Miles and his son Layne reveal the impressive results of their three-year trial on early-planted soybeans. Discover how their February-planted beans achieved a remarkable yield of 90 bushels per acre and learn about the benefits of early harvesting, including a positive price basis. Matt also shares exciting news about their double crop soybeans planted right after the July 22 harvest, predicted to yield 50 bpa. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in desiccation, double cropping, and maximizing acreage with early planting. Tune in to hear Matt answer crucial questions: “How early is too early to plant beans, and how late is too late to plant beans in the Delta?”   Presented by Simon Innovations

Chances are, you’re planting treated seed. But are your seeds treated with the right products to deliver you maximum yield potential? Seed treatment options have expanded tremendously, as have the quality of inputs available via treatment. XA’s Temple Rhodes, Kelly Garrett and Damian Mason join Corteva Biologicals’ Mario Carillo in a discussion about how farmers can utilize seed treatment to achieve stress reduction, pest resistance, and, ultimately, bigger yields.     Presented By Simon Innovations

If you’re not tissue sampling your crops now, you might as well make the jump straight to sap sampling. If you are tissue sampling, it’s time for your crop testing to evolve. That’s the general consensus from Mike Evans of Integrated Ag Solutions. Why sap rather than tissue? Because tissue sampling tells you what’s already happened in the the plant — too late for you to affect it. Sap sampling, on the other hand, informs the grower of what nutrients are, or are not, coursing through the crop’s veins currently. This allows a timeframe for treatment. Sap sampling post-treatment provides information on the effectiveness of the treatment. Illinois farmer and proprietor of Bio Ag Management, Clint Frese joins Mr. Evans on this very informative topic.   Cutting The Curve is brought to you by Simon Innovations

It’s no secret, farm revenue will be down in 2024. So, how can you keep your farm finances flush? One method: Adjust your fertility program to a  “just in time” application method, saving on fertility spend while getting greater yields. Temple Rhodes explains how he’s shifting his fertility program, applying nutrients just as the plant needs them. The practice saves a little money, but more importantly, his crops benefit from the full investment in fertility. Tommy Roach joins Temple to explain the realities of fertilizer loss which might soon require your farm to have nutrient management program in place. Given the reality of farm finances and looming environmental requirements, you better listen to this. Then... get busy setting up your Just In Time fertility program!    Presented by CLAAS.

In this episode, join host Damian as he dives into the world of agricultural drones with Layne Miles and his father, Matt. Discover how this dynamic duo from Arkansas is embracing cutting-edge technology to revolutionize their farming operations. From the legal hurdles to financial considerations, and the practical to the impractical applications, Layne and Matt share their insights on integrating unmanned aircraft into modern agriculture. Tune in to learn about the future of farming and how drones are becoming an indispensable tool in the agricultural industry.   Presented by Simon Innovations        

Listen in to this interesting conversation between Kelly Garrett, Matt Miles, Kurt Grimm and Damian Mason on the feasibility of drip irrigation for Matt's farm. Is he actually losing money by not installing drip? Kelly does the math and the results might surprise you! (and Matt too!)

Temple Rhodes has been toying around for years with methods to stunt his soybeans early season in an effort to attain higher yields end of season. He’s used chemistry, various timed applications of plant growth regulators, and now he’s experimenting with fertility to stunt growth. Why would a farmer want to stunt his beans? As Temple says, “We don’t sell biomass, we sell seed. We need to stunt them early because when you put a bunch of fertility into plants early, all you get is a bunch of lush biomass.”  Temple is joined by Tommy Roach of Nachurs who concocted a “Bean Squasher” fertility cocktail that’s delivering results — stunted soybeans early, higher soybean yields late.    Presented by Simon Innovations

Chad Henderson doesn’t like to skimp on crop inputs. He is, after all, one of the “send it twins” — always ready to push the limits and add an additional application. That’s why we at XA thought it’d be fun to put a throttle governor on Chad. Along with our field day partners at AgroLiquid, we gave Chad three budgets based on three different corn prices — $4, $6, and $8 per bushel.  Some corn plots seek only to show you how big of corn they can make. Chad’s 2024 research plot, conversely, will show you exactly what to expect with $100 per acre increases on fertility spend.    

Imagine a field day where the topic isn’t how big or beautiful the corn is, but instead how profitable the field will be. That’s the concept of this year's research plot at Matt Miles’ McGehee, Arkansas farm. Matt is competing with Galynn Beer and Stephanie Zelinko of AgroLiquid as well as Kelly Garrett of XtremeAg. Each of the four engineered a cropping plan with the express purpose of maximizing net profit, not merely yield. Matt, Galynn, and Stephanie explain how their research can help farmers like you make profitable fertility adjustments in a slower farm revenue cycle.  

In this episode, we dive deep into the often overlooked world of "mini-micros" – essential trace elements like cobalt, nickel, and molybdenum that could be the missing link in your crop nutrition strategy. Join Kelly Garrett and Mike Evans from Integrated Ag Solutions as they explore the critical role these nutrients play in maximizing yields. They’re joined by Clint Frese of Bio Ag Management for an insightful discussion on sap testing, stress reduction, and the science behind optimizing your crops' nutrient fitness. Tune in to learn how incorporating these tiny but mighty elements can transform your farming practices and elevate your harvests.   This episode is presented by CLAAS

Kelly Garrett says only about ten to fifteen percent of America’s farms use planters equipped with in-furrow application technology. That said, more farmers are looking to utilize in-furrow to provide them with a greater range of options and timing for inputs. Damian talk s to Kelly and Mario Carrillo of Corteva Biologicals about the components of a successful in-furrow program perfectly aligned with your farm’s objectives.     This episode is presented by Simon Innovations.   

XtremeAg’s Canadian affiliate Sam Coutu is giddy about how spring is shaping up for his Quebec farming operation. Sam went to the fields this year with refurbished planters and a different mindset. The money he’s saving on wasted fertility at time of planting he’s reapportioning to seed and late-season Y-drop fertilizer applications. Sam discusses the positive changes he’s making in 2024 on his much expanded farm. 

After the corn is planted and emerged, it’s time to plan your next several fertility passes. That is, unless you are flinger of dry fertility using the “one and done” approach, which as it turns out, doesn’t work all that well. Kevin Matthews explains how he maximizes yield and his investment with multiple liquid fertility applications. Kevin is joined by Nachurs’ Tommy Roach. They map out the timing, methodology, and product mix to a successful crop fed a liquid diet.     Presented by Simon Innovations

Manure can be magical for improving your soil and attaining bigger crops. But, like any fertility source, it can be over-applied creating imbalanced soil fertility. Getting the most from a manure source involves agronomic analysis, testing, and even variable rate application. Paul Beyer of NextGen Fertilizers began working with Colorado dairy and crop farmer, Stratton Kraft three years ago to correct agronomic issues. By revamping his manure management, Mr. Kraft has attained amazing yields while making his manure source go further AND reducing his irrigated water rate. Organic matter increases, bigger yields, and a smaller fertilizer bill — maybe manure can work for your farming operation! 

Are you reluctant to go no-till because you think you’ll lose yield? Does planting into heavy crop residue concern you? Kelly, Lee, and Kevin explain their methods to attaining high — sometimes record — yields with a no-till systems approach. They cover everything from the combine, to residue breakdown products, to specialized forms of “non-tillage” tillage that resizes fodder, to planter set up tips. If you’re stuck in your conventional farming methods, skip this episode. Just realize, you’re leaving money on the table via a paid sustainability program that pays a premium for no-till practices.    Presented by CLAAS  

Autonomous farm machinery is coming. Before you get excited (or overwhelmed) by the prospect of driverless equipment, understand this: Autonomy is coming in incremental doses, it’s applicable to your existing machinery, it’s affordable, and we’re still a few years away from the technology being completely “hands free.”  AGCO’s Brandon Montgomery and JCA Technologies’ Dinen Subramaniam join Damian Mason in this forward-looking talk about how autonomy will improve your farm and your financials.   

Change is the heartbeat of progress, and nowhere is this more evident than in the field of agriculture. "The Pace of Change" brings together the fresh minds of XtremeAg's next generation—Layne Miles, Connor Garrett, Danielle Matthews-Venable, Alexander Evans, and Jackson Henderson—for a riveting conversation with host Damian Mason and Teva Corporation's Caleb Coots. They confront the thrilling yet daunting changes sweeping through production agriculture. How does the speed of external innovation measure against the adaptability of on-farm practices? Which aspects of agricultural production—products, practices, or mindset—require the most urgent evolution? This episode doesn't just scratch the surface but dives deep into what change means for the very people nurturing our food's future. Tune in for a discussion that's as entertaining as it is enlightening, and walk away with a renewed perspective on agriculture's transformation.   This episode is the final-part of a four-part series presented by TEVA Corporation that looks at the agriculture industry through the eyes of its future. 

Matt Miles can’t catch a break weather-wise as the rains continue to pound his part of the Arkansas delta. Regardless, farming is farming and it’s time to make some adjustments.  Matt has decided it’s too late for replant corn to provide much yield potential. So, he’s reducing his already reduced corn acreage and switching to soybeans via a replant. He explains to Damian the practices and product choices he made preemptively allowing for the switch. Also, the re-plan: marketing of bushels, acquisition of new seed and crop inputs, and grain storage adaptations he’s made. If you’re looking for ideas on how to profitably adjust your crop mix in the wake of weather problems, start with this episode!    This episode is presented by Simon Innovations

Join host Damian Mason as he poses the question: "Is Ag Tech where it should be?" to the next generation of farming industry professionals.  This roundtable discussion features Guests Layne Miles, Connor Garrett, Danielle Matthews-Venable, Alexander Evans, Jackson Henderson and Caleb Coots dive into pressing questions about the current state of agricultural technology. Is it fulfilling its potential? What gaps exist, and how can they be bridged? Explore how these young leaders envision technology transforming their operations and what excites them about the future possibilities in agriculture. Whether you're deeply embedded in the ag sector or just tech-curious, this episode offers a fresh perspective on how technological advancements can revolutionize farming.   This episode is the third-part of a four-part series presented by TEVA Corporation that looks at the agriculture industry through the eyes of its future. 

Lee Lubbers is strategically increasing protein levels in his winter wheat not just for additional revenue, but to avoid financial losses from lower protein content, which can significantly reduce the price per bushel. In discussions with Damian, Lee delves into the agronomic techniques and business strategies for enhancing protein levels in wheat to secure premium prices. This approach mitigates the risk of price docks, which can vary dramatically depending on protein content, highlighting the direct link between agricultural practices and market economics.   This episode is sponsored by CLAAS.

The Business of Agriculture needs youth to enter the industry. To accomplish this, there must be opportunity for personal and professional growth. Are we providing it? What opportunities do Ag’s next generation see and what struggles are presented in keeping Ag’s kids in Ag? Damian sits down with a panel of Ag up-and-comers to get their thoughts on working in Ag. What drives someone to come into our industry and what will keep American Ag humming in the future? If you’re looking for thoughts on keeping your kids in Ag, listen to this!    This episode is the second-part of a four-part series presented by TEVA Corporation that looks at the agriculture industry through the eyes of its future.       

In the future, you may be using concentrated manure as a starter fertilizer on your planter. Even if you’re not close to a livestock operation, manure may become a part of your annual fertilizer application. So says Kurt Grimm of NutraDrip whose irrigation company is deploying new methods to extract value from manure while making the livestock by-product more easily used by crop farmers. Kurt joins XA's Kelly Garrett and Damian Mason for this forward looking discussion.

Join host Damian as he dives into the profound question of agriculture's future through the eyes of its heirs in this compelling episode of Cutting The Curve. In an insightful roundtable discussion with Danielle Matthews, Vern Garrett, Jackson Henderson, Layne Miles, and Alexander Evans, and Caleb Coots from Teva Corporation's third generation, we explore the pressures and ambitions that shape the next generation of farmers. From their unique 20-something perspectives, these young industry professionals discuss the readiness to take over farming operations, the legacy they wish to uphold and innovate upon, and the essential advice they'd offer both to their peers and their younger selves. Don’t miss this special episode with NeXtremeAg, where the future of farming speaks out.   This episode of Cutting the Curve is made possible through the support of TEVA Corporation.      

Temple Rhodes isn’t afraid to tell you what your soil tests likely aren’t: That you have a phosphorous problem. Specifically, you have a problem getting your “P” untied and then up-taken by your crops. Tommy Roach with Nachurs and James Paterson with AgroTech USA join Temple to explain how you can maximize your phosphorous. Just because you’re spending money applying “P,” that doesn’t mean your crops are receiving it. Listen to this agronomically insightful episode hosted by Damian Mason!    Presented by CLAAS

The supply chain disruptions you heard so much about from 2020 through 2022 unsettled the machinery market. Now in 2024, the farm equipment marketplace is still adjusting. Inventory of used machines has been climbing rapidly over the last year. This run up in supply should equate to lower sale prices…but it’s not. Casey Seymour of Moving Iron LLC and host of The Moving Iron podcast, provides a market update and outlook. If you’re looking to update your fleet, listen to this for Casey’s advice on buying farm machinery.     Presented by CLAAS

Matt Miles pace of planting was looking good. 100% of his corn and rice is not only in the ground, but emerged. As was 45% of his soybean acreage. Then the rains came. A half foot of rain and it’s still not finished. As you might imagine, he’s got crops under water. Matt talks to Damian about wet conditions, past experience, adjustments he’s making, money, inputs, cropping decisions, and the mental aspect of managing through mid-spring weather adversity.     Presented by CLAAS

Is a downturn market the right time to expand grain storage facility?  In this episode of Xtreme Ag's Cutting the Curve from Commodity Classic 2024, host Damian Mason is joined by Johnny Verell from Tennessee, Chad Henderson from Alabama, Kelly Garrett from Iowa, and grain industry professional Rodie Jelleberg from Superior Grain. Together, they delve into the pressing issue facing many in the agricultural sector today: the merits and risks of investing in grain storage expansion during economic downturns. They discuss the potential for securing early harvest premiums, the critical role of efficient drying technology, and the overarching importance of operational self-sufficiency in uncertain financial climates.  If you are pondering the expansion of grain facilities or seeking to understand the experiences of those who have faced similar decisions, this episode delivers an understanding of the complex factors that influence grain storage investments and how these can impact farm profitability in both short and long terms.    

Suddenly, we’re hearing a lot about Carbon Intensity Scores in Agriculture.  What is a CI score, why does it matter, and how can you use it (eventually) to improve your financials? Those questions and more are addressed by Temple Rhodes who is joined by Holganix's Barrett Ersek and David Stark. If you’d like to improve your soil AND financial health, tune into this!    This episode is presented by CLAAS.

In the unforgiving landscape of Guymon, Oklahoma, where the earth tests the mettle of those who farm it, Nelson Rentz stands as a testament to resilience and innovation. Garnering a third place state finish in the 2023 NCGA contest for his impressive strip-till, irrigated corn yield of 292 bushels per acre, Nelson talks to Cutting The Curve host, Damian Mason, about how he has been able to harvest success in one of America's toughest farming environments.    This episode is presented by CLAAS.      

Do you know whether your fields have a corn nematode problem? Have you experienced crown rot? Chances are, if you have had these two yield robbers on your farm, you didn’t know about it until you made a pass with the combine. Preventing this two problems involved detection and / or selecting the right mode of protection. Historically protection has come from crop rotation, genetics, seed treatment, along with a dose of luck. Now you can address these problems early on by applying products in-furrow along with your on-planter fertility program. David Reif, agronomist with Vive explains chemistry and solutions to address crown rot and corn nematodes at springtime - before they can cause yield loss.      Presented by CLAAS  

When it comes to deciding when it’s time to plant, Lee Lubbers says, “We don’t look at a calendar, we look at conditions.” With a mild winter and early spring, 2024 looks like a year where many farmers will be rolling out the planter earlier than usual. But what if you get a late spring killing frost? Will you be forced to re-plant, or simply suffer a devastating yield loss? Lee joins Matt Miles, Kelly Garrett and XA host Damian Mason in a very instructive dialogue on how you can successfully shepherd your crops through a killing frost.    Presented by CLAAS.