A Better Way To Farm Podcast

Nitrogen is the “big one” in farming. 

However, using too much can hurt your crops and your

wallet. In this episode, let’s break down tips that help you apply nitrogen wisely, protect your soil, and cut waste.

What You’ll Learn Today:

• Why too much nitrogen can actually lower your yield

• How timing and placement make a big money difference

• How other nutrients (like sulfur, zinc, and phosphorus) help nitrogen work better

Many farmers worry that using liquid fertilizer will “mine” or hurt their soil. But truth is, when nutrients go into the plant—and not just on the ground—you can actually build better soil and better yields over time. Farming has a lot of opinions. But results come from:

✔ Real tests

✔ Real science

✔ Real numbers

✔ Programs that actually build soil and yields

🌱 Here’s What You’ll Learn:

• Why soil already has huge amounts of P and K waiting to be unlocked

With rising costs and tighter margins heading into 2026, so today were walking through the real numbers and simple steps that help farmers keep more money in their pockets while still growing strong crops. 

This episode lays out the practical, proven ways to cut waste, boost efficiency, and make every acre pay.

🌱 Here’s What You’ll Learn:

• Why soil testing is the fastest way to stop wasting fertilizer

• How to use nitrogen correctly so less is lost and more is made in yield

...

In this episode, Rod and Curt dig into something big… the untapped nutrients beneath the soil surface. After deep soil testing this year, we’ve proven there are thousands of pounds of nutrients just waiting for roots to find them. 

If you want more profit per acre without spending more money, this is the episode for you.

🌱 Here’s What You’ll Learn:

• The simple shifts that help crops grow deeper

• How improving soil health creates a highway for roots to access more nutrients<...

In this episode, we talk with Ryan Wolf. He shares practical tips that can make your soil healthier and your yields higher. You’ll hear real talk about what works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid costly mistakes.

🌱 What You’ll Learn:

• Smart ways to manage moisture, weeds, and nutrients

• Why timing and management matter way more than seed choice

• How to make cover crops part of a soil health plan

Today, Roger Wright joins us to unpack what’s really happening in the grain markets. Soybean Prices just hit a 13-month high, and Roger explains what that means, why China’s buying matters, and what you can do right now to lock in profit and protect profit.

This episode is packed with simple, clear advice to help you make smart moves for your farm.

🌱 What You’ll Learn:

• How to know when it’s time to sell your beans;

• How to use “put options” to p...

Today we’re talking about the hidden cost of baling cornstalks. Is it really worth it? Or are you losing more than you gain?

In this episode, we break down real numbers from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to show just how much nutrient value you’re giving away when you haul off those stalks.

🌱 What You’ll Learn:

• Why cornstalks are worth more than you think;

• How much N, P, and K you really lose when you bale and sell; and

• Why manag...

Is your soybean program plant them, spray them, cut them, and complain about them? If that’s your plan, you’re leaving money on the table.

In this episode, we break down how higher management and a few simple changes can turn average yields into 80 or even 100s. From soil testing to foliar feeding, you’ll learn the steps that separate average from awesome.

🌱 What You’ll Learn:

• How a soil test is like your GPS for better yields;

• The simple nutrient tweaks that can...

Don’t let residue steal your profits! 

Learn how to turn your leftover stalks into nutrient gold with one easy recipe that really works.

🌱 What You’ll Learn:

• When and how to spray for best results;

• Why residue can help or hurt your yields; and

• How to recycle nutrients and save on fertilizer.

In this episode, we take on a big question many farmers face: Should I bale and sell my cornstalks? It might look like quick cash, but Rod lays out the real value of what’s leaving your field in nutrients, organic matter, and future yield potential.

If you want to keep more profit in your pocket and protect your soil for years to come, this episode is a must-listen.

🌱 What You’ll Learn:

• Why residue is a soil-builder, not a burden;

• The real cost of se...

Today we’re talking about something that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves … lime. When your soil’s pH is off, your nutrients don’t work the way they should.

In this episode, we’ll talk about why lime matters, when to apply it, and how to make sure you’re applying the right kind for your soil.

🌱 What You’ll Learn:

• Why fixing your pH is step one to getting more out of your fertilizer dollars;

• Why fall is the best time to apply...

If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will get you there…

Here’s the truth: guessing on your fertilizer programs is costing you money. Maybe you’ve been doing things the same way for years…150 pounds of this, 200 pounds of that and hoping for the best. However, hope doesn’t build profits. Soil testing does.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Why repeating the same old fertility plan is leaving yield and profit on the table;

• Why fall testing saves you bo...

N, P, and K are your biggest fertility expense but what if what you’re applying never reaches the crop? Rod and Dr. Richard Mulvaney share how to cut costs and boost yields by using what’s already in your soil.

In this episode, you’ll learn the truth about N, P, and K and what you can do to stop wasting money.

💡 Here’s what you’ll discover:

• 🌱 Nitrogen secrets: learn how to apply less and protect your bottom line;

• 💧 Phosphorus power: there’s more P i...

Ever wonder why some farm products are dirt cheap while others cost more?

Here’s the truth: not all products are created equal. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on micronutrients, sugar, and other inputs to show you why the cheapest jug may be the most expensive mistake you’ll ever make.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why weak chelation wastes your money (and how to spot it);

• How to use sugar the smart way for real results; and

...

Are you paying for nitrogen that never even makes it into your crop? 

Over applying means run off that goes straight into rivers, drinking water, and out of your pocket. It’s a growing problem for farmers. However, you don’t have to settle. You can grow high yields with less nitrogen, protect your ground, and your profits.

In this episode, we get real about:

• Why more nitrogen doesn’t always mean more yield;

• The best ways to manage N so every pound pays...

Let’s cut to the chase…are you really getting a return from that dry broadcast? It’s time to take an honest look. Farming costs are going up, margins are getting tighter, and the old “just throw more out there” approach isn’t cutting it anymore.

In this episode, we walk through why dry broadcast became popular, what the problems with it are, and what you can do right now to improve profits.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why “easy” isn’t always the same as “...

How do we make money on the farm when costs keep going up and the weather keeps changing?

In this episode, we talk about the choices that can make or break your season. We’ll cover how to fight tough diseases like southern rust and tar spot, and what to do when drought or floods hurt your crop.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• Why using a full system works better than just piling on more N, P, and K;

• How boron and calcium can be just as important for healthy plants; an...

Want to know what’s really driving the fertilizer market?

In this episode, I sit down with Josh Linville, who has spent more than 20 years working in the fertilizer industry. He helps us make sense of the ups and downs farmers are facing right now. We’ll talk about why soil testing matters, how to make use of micronutrients, and ways to stay profitable without depending only on the same old fertilizer programs.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• Simple ways to handle the corn-to-fe...

Can farmers transform volatility into opportunity? 

As we confront soaring costs, erratic markets, and unpredictable weather, let’s explore how strategic inputs and data-driven techniques can safeguard yields and maximize profits. 

You’ll learn:

• How to optimally use resources like nitrogen;

• The importance of relying on proven strategies; and

• What you can do right now to balance productivity with cost management.

We believe that today's challenges can indeed become tomorrow's stepping stones to sustainable growth.

Sometimes the biggest shift starts with asking better questions.

In this episode, you’ll hear from Preston and Charles. These two farmers got tired of doing things the same old way. They started asking questions, looking for answers, and found a better way to farm.

They’ll share:

• How learning just, a little more made a big difference;

• Why the Fundamentals of Agronomy training helped their farms take off;

• What you can do right now to improve yields without increasing your costs...

What if optimizing your foliar feeding techniques could dramatically enhance your plant health and yield? 

Let’s explore some foliar feeding best practices, where key preventive measures against crop burn take center stage. 

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• Why temperature monitoring is important;

• How to prevent residual chemical damage during spraying, and;

• How to minimize the risk of leaf burn.

If you’re ready to try something new that is working for others, you’ll want to hear th...

Are you tired of doing the same thing every year and hoping for better results?

In this episode we share simple tips from farmers who are growing more and spending less. You’ll hear how small changes can make a big difference, how learning from others can speed up your success, and how there are already be valuable nutrients deep in your soil if you know how to use them.

Really, growers can learn from each other’s successes. This episode is a chance to embrace innovation and harness new...

Want to grow more while spending less? This episode shows how farmers across the country are doing just that with A Better Way to Farm.

We’ll talk about how using the right products (based on real soil tests) can make a big difference. You’ll hear about the hard work it takes, but also the rewards that come from doing things the right way.

You’ll learn:

• The science behind increasing yields;

• Why testing your soil matters, and;

• Ways to apply nut...

Is Boron the Secret to Higher Yields?

Could just a few ounces of boron be what your crops are missing?

Today we’re talking about boron. A nutrient that can make a big impact. It helps plants build strong cell walls, move sugars, and fix nitrogen. It also plays a big role in pollination and helps crops grow better in hot, dry weather.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why boron is often missing in the soil;

• How to tell if your crops need mor...

Are your sunflowers really reaching their full potential?

In this episode, Rod teams up with Denny, to break down the science that drives higher yields like how photosynthesis impacts sugar production, and why nutrient timing matters more than ever.

You’ll hear:

• How corn’s photosynthesis process beats sunflowers (and what to do about it);

• Safe starter fertilizer tips for oilseed crops;

• Why early phosphorus is key to stronger stands, and;

• How tissue testing helps guide better decisions.

Today we’re having a conversation with our client Josh. We talk about how he made the shift from traditional dry NPK to a more efficient liquid system for better nutrient management and increased yields.

Our guest opens up, so you’ll learn:

• How he no-tills his farm and uses cover crops;

• How to select the perfect foliar mix; and

• Cutting edge techniques using a drone for foliar feeding.

This has helped Josh grow more while spending less. It’s all about gi...

Think pouring on more nitrogen is the key to big yields? Think again.

Too much nitrogen can backfire, costing you money and hurting your crop. The real win comes from using the right amount at the right time and making sure it works with your whole fertility plan.

Our guest explains how to use nutrients better. You’ll learn:

• Why your crops need a good balance of all nutrients;

• How the right mix of ammonium and nitrate helps corn and wheat; and

•...

What if you could know your if your corn needs more nitrogen with 97% accuracy? With a PSNT (Pre-Sidedress Nitrogen Test) you can!

Our guest expert shares:

• Why the V4 to V6 stages are so important;

• How the PSNT works; and

• Tips to help you save money and increase corn yields!

If you want to use nitrogen the right way and get more out of your crop, this episode is for you.

Can you really build a strong team just by calling out the good in people?

In this episode, we’re talking about how leading with encouragement can change your farm, your family, and your future. We can’t control the weather or crop prices, but we can control how we respond.

Farming throws plenty of curveballs. When we choose to react with grit, gratitude, and a problem-solving mindset, we create a ripple effect that lifts everyone around us. It’s not about ignoring challenges it’s about choosing to face them the right way.

You’ll...

Today we’re sharing simple tips to turn problem acres into productive ones. You’ll learn how potassium and magnesium compete in the soil and why weather can make it harder for plants to take in nutrients. With the right plan though, even your toughest fields can do well.

We’ll also cover how foliar feeding helps crops under stress and how cover crops can rebuild soil health. Plus, we’ll talk about specialty crops.

You’ll learn:

• How to farm around sodic and high-mag soils;

• Why foliar...

Not sure how foliar feeding works or what to spray?

We’ve got simple answers that make a big difference.

In this episode, we break down foliar feeding - what it is, how to do it right, and why it matters for your bottom line. We’ll walk you through timing, pressure, volume, and even how the temperature can make or break your results.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• Why old spray habits could be costing you yield;

• What tissue testing can te...

What if one simple step could help you grow more wheat and make every acre count? In

this episode we share practical tips to grow healthier wheat, boost your yields, and improve

profitability.

You’ll learn:

• The first step to take before you plant;

• Which small nutrients can lead to big results; and

• What’s working best right now to improve plant health

Want help with foliar feeding?

Today’s episode we’ll talk about how to cut costs without cutting corners. You’ll learn how better soil fertility and smart nitrogen use can help you grow more and spend less.

We’ll break down:

• How to use nitrogen the right way;

• Why split applications might save you money; and

• What old habits might be costing you more than you think.

Our goal is to help farmers like you across the U.S. grow strong farms that last.

What if one simple change could help you grow more and spend less? 

In this episode, we talk with a farmer who started from scratch and has moved from a dry program to a liquid system. He shares what worked on his farm and how it helped him boost yields and manage costs. If you’re wondering whether if making the change is worth it, this episode will give you clear answers. 

You’ll learn: 

Are your soybean yields stuck at the same number every year? 

You don’t have to settle for that! In today’s episode, we’ll dig into simple but powerful ways to grow more bushels. We’re sharing 9 Questions Every Farmer Should Be Asking to Increase Soybean Yields. If you’re ready to take your farm to the next level, this episode is for you. 

You’ll learn: 

Every farmer can unlock higher yields, you just need the ri

Did you know that something as simple as sugar can help your crops? 

In this episode we talk about how sugar is a powerful tool for farmers. It’s not just for sweet tea sugar can feed good microbes in the soil, help break down old plant residue, and even improve the health of crops like corn, soybeans, and wheat. Rod shares how sugar used to be hard to work with, but now there are easy options that mix well and don’t clog equipment. And best of all? Farmers are seeing better yields and higher profits by us...

What if simply changing when you apply potassium could lead to higher yields and profitability? In this episode, digging into K applications. With rising costs and market uncertainty, now’s the time to make sure everything we do pencils out.

You’ll learn: 

 

Doing the right thing always pays off and we’re here to help you make good choices to have the best season possible.

Are You Planting for Profit—or Just Following the Calendar?  

In this episode of the A Better Way to Farm Podcast, we’re covering 7 tips to improve profitability this season because when you plant with intention, you plant for profit. We’re sharing 7 real and actionable strategies you can use right now to improve planting outcomes and set yourself up for a better harvest.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 

What would you do if your family farm had to shut down? In this episode, we talk with Jason, a Michigan farmer. His family had been farming for over 100 years. But everything changed when they learned the soil was full of PFAS—harmful chemicals from using treated human waste as fertilizer. Jason shares how this happened, how it’s affected his family, and what he’s doing to keep going.

What You’ll Learn:

Are your soybeans stuck at a plateau? What if you could break past that and grow even more? Today Rod’s shares 3 easy, proven tips to help you get better soybean yields and boost your farm’s profits. 

Here’s What You’ll Learn: 

Don’t miss these simple, helpful tips to increase yields! 

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend and lea...