Whole Grain
Hosted by Jim Lenz, GEAPS’ Director of Global Education and Training, The Whole Grain Podcast shares expert insights, real-world stories, and innovative ideas shaping the future of grain handling and processing. Each episode features voices from across the industry, including GEAPS members, educators and special guests. With a growing audience spanning 94 countries, the podcasts fuels growth, innovation and connection in the grain and grain processing industries—one conversation at a time.-Subscribe on your favorite podcast app or listen at www.geaps.com/wholegrain -Learn how GEAPS can help you grow your career at www.GEAPS.com -Explore exclusive GEAPS memb...
Mission Continues: Veterans Building Careers in the Grain Industry
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Hosted by Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast explores how military experience translates into meaningful careers in the grain handling and processing industry.
A lot of veterans don’t struggle with work ethic—they struggle with direction. When the uniform comes off, the mission and the built-in team can disappear overnight. That’s why this conversation resonates so strongly.
Jim...
Designing Grain Facilities That Last: Lessons from the Field
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Designing a grain facility is one of the most critical—and infrequent—decisions in grain handling and processing operations. The choices made during planning, layout, and construction can impact efficiency, safety, and long-term performance for decades.
In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, is joined by Chris Schaudt, Vice President of Sales at Mid-States Companies, to explore what it takes to d...
The Modern Grain Facility: Markets, Risk, and the Systems That Make It Work
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Across the grain industry, facility leaders are navigating a level of uncertainty we haven’t seen in years. Volatile commodity markets. Weather extremes. Labor shortages. Tighter margins. Rising expectations around safety, uptime, and quality.
In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz sits down with Matt Koch, Chief Marketing Officer at Sukup Manufacturing Co., to explore what it really takes to operate a modern grain facility in today’s un...
GEAPS Exchange 2026: More Than a Trade Show — Education, Innovation, and Connections That Move Our Industry Forward
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GEAPS Exchange 2026: What to Expect — and How to Get the Most Value
Every year, there’s one time when the global grain community gathers in one place to learn, connect, and solve real-world challenges together. In this special episode, Jim Lenz is joined by Bob Horvat, current GEAPS Board President, to spotlight GEAPS Exchange 2026—the premier event in the grain and grain processing industries.
Helping Grain Customers Do More with Less: Real Value in Real Time
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In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, talks with Kyle Dixon, Vice President of Sales at IBT Industrial Solutions, about how grain facilities can do more with less—while improving reliability, uptime, and long-term value.
Kyle brings a rare perspective, having served as an IBT sales rep, regional manager, and now VP of Sales. He shares practical in...
What Does a Test Tell You? How Sampling and Testing Protect Grain Safety and Quality
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In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, sits down with Dr. Gretchen Mosher, Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Iowa State University. Dr. Mosher is a nationally recognized expert on grain quality, measurement systems, and safety management — and her research reveals why testing is one of the most powerful tools grain handlers have for protecting quality, re...
Temporary Storage – Is Your System Ready?
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Temporary Storage – Is Your System Ready?
Temporary storage plays a critical role in grain operations—but it comes with unique challenges, risks, and costs that must be carefully managed. In this episode, 40-year industry veteran Bob Marlow shares hard-earned lessons, success strategies, technologies improving temporary storage, and a practical framework for evaluating whether this year's plan is truly ready.
From grain quality protection and site design to cost...
Lower Costs, Cleaner Air, Bigger Demand: Geoff Cooper on California’s E15 Breakthrough
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California is on the verge of legalizing E15 fuel for the first time after the legislature unanimously passed Assembly Bill 30. In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, talks with Geoff Cooper, President & CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), about how persistence, coalition-building, and strategy led to this milestone — and what it means for consumers, retailers, policymakers, and grain professionals. From lower co...
Right-Sizing, Reliability, and ROI — Smarter Equipment Choices for Grain Facilities
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What does 50 years in the grain industry teach you about smarter equipment decisions? Today’s guest, Jeff Schwab, knows the answer firsthand.
Jeff began his career at just 15 years old, working night shifts at a local mill while finishing high school. After completing a Vo-Tech program in drafting and design, he spent decades shaping the grain industry—first as a draftsman, then in sales, troubleshooting, and ultimately as a trainer and Prod...
Connecting People, Building Leaders- How Scott Brittingham Champions Growth in the Grain Industry
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Scott Brittingham doesn't just recruit members to GEAPS—he builds community by forging meaningful connections that last a lifetime. As the organization's top recruiter for six of the last seven years, his approach reveals profound insights about leadership, mentorship, and the future of the grain industry.
Starting his journey at just 14 years old sweeping floors at his father's grain facility, Scott has accumulated over five decades of experience that he's passionate ab...
Plug In and Grow: GEAPS’ No-Cost Internship Companion Program
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Internships are more than just short-term work experiences—they’re the first step in building a future-ready workforce.
In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz and Betsy Polis, Sr. Director of Projects and Events, introduces GEAPS' NextGen Path—a free, flexible internship companion program designed to enrich intern experiences at grain facilities and supplier companies.
Learn how this plug-and-play toolki...
Port Pressures: Navigating Grain Facility Challenges with Smart Equipment Solutions
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Port Pressures: Navigating Grain Facility Challenges with Smart Equipment Solutions
Sponsored by AGI – Ag Growth International
In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz, Director of Global Training and Education at GEAPS, is joined by Justin Paterson of AGI (Ag Growth International) to dive into the modern-day challenges faced by grain port facilities — and how inno...
Grain for the Glass: What Bourbon Distillers Expect from Grain Handlers
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In this episode of the Whole Grain podcast, we’re heading deep into bourbon country—to the rolling hills of Loretto, Kentucky — where time meets tradition, and grain quality isn’t just important... it’s everything. Today, we’re pouring a glass of something a little different.
We bring in two outstanding guests inn to today’s show, both of Peterson Farms in Kentucky. We have Bernard Peterson, a partner at Peterson Farms...
E15, Ethanol, and the Future of Agriculture: What’s Next, Why It Matters, and How Congress Can Help
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Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, joins Jim Lenz, Director of Education and Training at GEAPS, to share a powerful vision for expanding ethanol markets through permanent E15 access — and the tremendous impact it would have on the grain industry.
The recent EPA summer waiver for E15 marks a significant victory, but Emily explains why congressional action is essential to make year-round E15 sales permanent. Fu...
Sukup Manufacturing and the Future of Grain Storage: A Conversation with Brent Hansen
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Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz welcomes Brent Hansen, Commercial Accounts Manager for Sukup Manufacturing Co., for a fascinating discussion on the evolution and future of grain storage. From the humble beginnings of smaller grain bins to today’s towering structures designed for massive operations, Brent shares expert insights on how innovation, efficiency, safety, and sustainability are driving the future of storage solutions.
The Role of Cooperatives in Global Food and Fuel Systems
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How do cooperatives enhance stability, resilience, and profitability in the grain industry? In this insightful episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz sits down with Dr. Keri L. Jacobs, Associate Professor of Agricultural and Applied Economics at the University of Missouri and Executive Director of the Graduate Institute of Cooperative Leadership (GICL).
Dr. Jacobs offers a deep dive into the pivotal role that cooperatives play in supporting grain producers...
GEAPS: Transformational Shifts in Agriculture, Brings New Opportunities for GEAPS Members
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In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz welcomes John Caupert, Executive Director of GEAPS, to discuss the transformational shifts happening in agriculture and what they mean for GEAPS members. Fresh off the success of GEAPS Exchange 2025, John reflects on key takeaways from the event, including the launch of groundbreaking educational initiatives like the Grain Processing Track, the Welcome to the...
Driving Change: The 45Z Tax Credit's Impact on Biofuels and Beyond with Eric McAfee
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What if the future of renewable energy could lie in the hands of agriculture? In this captivating conversation, host Jim Lenz, sits down with Eric McAfee, the visionary CEO of Aemetis.
McAfee shares groundbreaking insights into sustainable and innovative renewable fuel solutions that benefit communities and restore our environment. You'll learn how Aemetis is pioneering carbon-negative biofuel solutions and harnessing the power of agricultural resources, emphasizing the dual use of corn f...
Keeping Grain Moving: Preventative Maintenance and Supplier Tips
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Discover the keys to mastering conveyor system maintenance in grain operations with our special guest, Jake Crockford from IBT Industrial Solutions. Jake shares with the Whole Grain podcast host and GEAPS’ Director of Education and Training, Jim Lenz, his profound expertise on overcoming obstacles in grain facilities, from aging equipment to workforce shortages, and offers vital insights into optimizing efficiency. Learn how a problem-solving mindset and a broad understanding can make a significant di...
Fueling the Future: The Role of Renewable Fuels in the Grain Industry
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In this insightful episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz sits down with Robert White, Vice President of Industry Relations and Market Development at the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA). With decades of experience in ethanol market development and a deep connection to the grain industry, Robert brings a wealth of knowledge about the transformative role of renewable fuels.
Together, Jim and Robert explore the evolving landscape of biofuels, focusing...
All About GEAPS Exchange 2025!
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Unlock the secrets to staying ahead in the grain industry as we gear up for the GEAPS Exchange 2025, the ultimate event for grain professionals. With GEAPS Executive Director John Caupert joining us, learn how this year’s conference is set to break new ground with over 400 exhibitors and the debut of a cutting-edge grain processing track. Get insider knowledge on the event’s structure and the pivotal role GEAPS members play in feeding, fuel...
Continuous Improvement with April-Hope Wareham
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In her job at Cargill, GEAPS Member April-Hope Wareham serves as continuous improvement lead for more than 30 grain terminals along and east of the Mississippi River. In the latest episode of Whole Grain Podcast, GEAPS’s Director of Education and Training Jim Lenz talks to Wareham about her wealth of experience in barge, bluewater shipping, rail operations and food safety. Wareham shares her insights on how continuous improvement is transforming the grain industry.
Optimizing Grain Inventory Management
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Have you ever wondered how to transform your grain inventory management for peak efficiency and profitability? In this episode of Whole Grain, we're joined by Jim Voigt, a long-time veteran of the grain industry with extensive experience in inventory management.
Voigt's career spans several decades, during which he has significantly contributed to the growth and efficiency of major companies like ADM. He has sourced and trained more than 5,000 employees to supervise a...
Unpacking the Boom: What’s Driving Growth in the Soy Crush Industry
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Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn soybeans into the versatile products we use daily? You might know Danny Lein as one of the newest additions to GEAPS International Board of Directors. He's also a skilled plant manager at Oxbow Crush in Greenwood, Mississippi. In this episode, Lein takes us step-by-step through the soy crush process.
From the moment soybeans arrive by truck or rail, to the detailed tempering an...
Why Internships Matter: Planting the Seeds
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What if the key to building a successful agricultural career lies in a well-structured internship? Join us as we discuss the transformative potential of internships in the agriculture industry. Our guest, Dustin Toberman, president and founder of OMNI Ag, shares his vast experience and insights on how internships have evolved from informal roles to structured, skill-enhancing opportunities. Discover how involving interns in real-world tasks like customer interactions and grain trading can sharpen their...
Unveiling the Present: Autonomous Tech Transforms Agricultural Rail Loadouts with RAYHAWK Technologies
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Learn about autonomous railcar loading solutions in this special promotional episode of Whole Grain podcast brought to us by RAYHAWK Technologies.
The RAYHAWK autonomous railcar loading solutions bring the latest in technology and digitization to reality; seamlessly integrating computer vision, machine learning and autonomous operations to ensure safe and efficient rail loading operations.
This episode features Tom Boehm, president of RAYHAWK Technologies, and his father, Ray Boehm, the inspiration be...
Fueling Progress: The Evolution of the Ethanol Industry with Dr. Kurt Rosentrater
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Dr. Kurt Rosentrater, an expert in grain handling and processing from Iowa State University, sits down with Jim Lenz for "Fueling Progress: The Evolution of the Ethanol Industry. "
This episode of Whole Grain Podcast discusses the ever-changing landscape of the ethanol industry and its determined march toward sustainable practices.
Learn how the industry is being reshaped by initiatives such as carbon capture to the creation of eco-friendly aviation fuels. We’l...
Optimizing Spring Grain Drying and Storage: Insights from Ken Hellevang
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In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, Ken Hellevang, an expert in grain drying and storage from North Dakota State University Extension, sits down with Jim Lenz for "Optimizing Spring Grain Drying and Storage: Insights from Ken Hellevang."
The episode considers critical aspects of managing grain during the spring season. Hellevang discusses challenges posed by warmer temperatures, solar heat gain, and moisture content fluctuations while offering practical recommendations for maintaining g...
Canola Chronicles: Unveiling the Remarkable Evolution with Dr. Michael Eskin
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Join us on the Whole Grain Podcast episode as we explore the remarkable evolution of canola as a commodity with insights from Dr. Michael Eskin, a Distinguished Professor at the University of Manitoba, renowned for his expertise in edible oils. Dr. Eskin's groundbreaking research has significantly contributed to our understanding of canola and its transformative journey in the agricultural landscape.
We begin by examining the origins of canola and i...
GEAPS Exchange 2024: Setting Records, Shaping Futures with John Caupert
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Listen in to hear about the monumental GEAPS Exchange event with John Caupert, the visionary executive director of GEAPS (Grain Elevator and Processing Society). Fresh from the excitement of Exchange 2024 in Kansas City, MO, Caupert shares his reflections, highlights and insider insights on the event that celebrated the grain handling and processing industry.
From record-breaking attendance to standout moments like the Get Acquainted Party with a mechanical bull and k...
Innovations in Grain Silo Maintenance: Drone Inspection Services
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Join Jim Lenz, host of the Whole Grain Podcast and GEAPS’ director of training and education, as he delves into the world of grain silo maintenance innovations with Cheyenne Wohlford, CEO and president of Custom Concrete Specialists (CCS Group). In this episode, Jim and Cheyenne explore the groundbreaking use of drone inspection services in the grain industry.
Discover the breadth and depth of CCS Group’s services as Cheyenne provides insights into...
Getting Ready for GEAPS Exchange 2024!
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Welcome to the latest episode of Whole Grain. In the show, we focus on GEAPS Exchange. We will dive deep into what you can expect at the upcoming GEAPS Exchange event taking place in Kansas City, MO, from February 24-27, 2024. We’ll explore the key aspects of the event, from registration to networking, education, and the bustling trade show floor.
Join us as GEAPS staff and other special guests wil...
Meet John Caupert, GEAPS’ New Executive Director
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Get ready to be inspired as we sit down with John Caupert, the visionary new Executive Director of the Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS). John brings to the table a lifetime of agricultural wisdom, from his early days on the farm to his transformative work at the National Corn to Ethanol Research Center. In this riveting discussion, he shares the convictions that steer his helm at GEAPS: respect, volunteering, and the power of...Everything from Conveyor Belting to Buckets with a 30-Year Grain Pro
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Unlock the hidden potential of your grain handling operations with insights from Joe Altenhofen, a conveyor belt virtuoso from IBT Industrial Solutions. In our latest conversation, Joe doesn't just spotlight the nuances of conveyor belt selection for grain efficiency; he digs deep into the very fabric that keeps the grain industry's heart beating. With a blend of technical wisdom and a knack for OSHA compliance, he shares his perspective on how tailored conveyor...
2023 GEAPS/KSU Conveyor Training Recap
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GEAPS teamed up with Kansas State University and the IGP Institute to offer Hands-On Training for the Operation and Maintenance of Conveying Equipment.
This episode takes listeners behind the scenes of the grain industry, exploring the nuances of Hands-On Training for the Operation and Maintenance of Conveying Equipment. This is an exclusive look into a two-and-a-half-day GEAPS program hosted by the IGP Institute at Kansas State University, where industry experts, instructors a...
Safety First: Unmasking Grain Dust Management with Dr. Carol Jones
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In this compelling episode, our director of education and host of Whole Grain, Jim Lenz welcomes Dr. Carol Jones, a distinguished figure in production agriculture and materials handling design.
Dr. Jones shares her professional journey, including her role at GEAPS Exchange and the Fire Service Training Grain Entrapment Rescue program prior to the discussion on grain dust management.
Overview of Grain Dust Management:
Dr. Jones provides...
A Lifetime of Shepherding Safety with Wayne Bauer
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Navigating the intricacies of the grain industry requires dedication, expertise, and a passion for safety. Our latest podcast guest, Wayne Bauer, embodies all these traits and more. Bauer, a seasoned industry veteran, shares his journey from leadership roles to his enduring commitment post-retirement.
Wayne's entry into the grain handling and processing industry was marked by his roles in various companies. His diverse career saw him transitioning from an agronomist to managing...
Recognizing Employee Behavior for Sustainable Engagement
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Ever pondered the power of genuine recognition in your workplace? Tune in as we dig into a riveting dialogue with Erin Mies, co-founder of People Spark Consulting, who casts a brilliant light on the pivotal role intentional recognition plays in boosting employee engagement. Erin's mantra, "having light, we pass it on to others," beautifully encapsulates her approach as she shares her rich experience from the agriculture industry. We navigate the terrain of employee...
Victam LatAm Exclusive: Grain Quality in Tropical Environments
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With a focus on serving our members and partnering with our network of global grain professionals, GEAPS partnered with Victam International to host our first ever event in South America! The event took place October 3-5, 2023, in São Paulo, Brazil.
Victam LatAm offered top tier networking and conferencing held by GEAPS and other relevant partners in feed and grain processing/handling industries. This was the very first Victam eve...
On-the-Ground Report from Victam LatAm
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GEAPS took a step toward fulfilling our mission to champion, connect and serve the global grain industry and our members recently with VICTAM/LatAm. We partnered with VICTAM International to host our first ever event in South America! The event took place October 3-5, 2023, in São Paulo, Brazil.
VICTAM hosts conferences and expos in Europe, Asia and the Middle East with a large network of companies in the fee...
