Join us as we dive deep into the current dynamics of the beef industry with Julie Ellingson, the Executive Vice President of the North Dakota Stockman's Association. With high demand for beef juxtaposed with recent drought challenges, we unravel the complexities of this sector that is more vital than ever to local economies and beyond. Julie brings her expert knowledge to discuss the impact of recent legislation, particularly concerning property taxes, and how they affect ranchers. Hear about the innovative strategies the Stockman's Association is employing in response to recent wildfires with their "Out of the Ashes" disaster relief initiative.

We also tackle broader trends influencing consumer choices between beef and its substitutes, offering a glimpse into the future of the beef market. Through enhanced promotional efforts and agricultural education, the beef industry continues to adapt and thrive. This episode is an insightful look into the trials and triumphs that characterize today’s ranching landscape, a must-listen for anyone interested in agriculture's evolving role.

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Land auctions are more than just transactions; they reflect the intricate web of technology, value, and market dynamics. This episode highlights our recent website revamp, tailored to improve the auction experience for buyers and sellers alike. We can navigate the changing market together as we probe into regional trends impacting farmland values.

Join us as we explore exciting insights into the land auction market, discussing how enhanced technology plays a significant role in educating buyers and simplifying the buying process. From understanding farmland dynamics to acknowledging the correlation between livestock prices and land values, this episode arms you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions.

We’ll guide you through recent success stories and sales trends, outlining the ongoing shifts in land pricing by region. As we look to upcoming auctions, we emphasize the importance of having a local agent on your side to help assess property values accurately. Tune in and equip yourself for the next chapter of your land investment journey, whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to land transactions. Don’t forget to check out our improved website to stay updated on everything the auction industry has to offer. Let’s embark on this journey together!

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Unlock the power of community and innovation in rural North Dakota as Cally Peterson, editor of North Dakota Living Magazine, joins me, Jim Sabby, for a riveting exploration of Rural Electric Cooperatives. Listen to compelling stories of the brave farmers and ranchers who banded together to light up rural areas, overcoming harsh winters like that of 1977-78. This episode shines a spotlight on the enduring cooperative spirit, celebrating the unsung heroes who keep North Dakota’s lights on against all odds.

Explore the dynamic landscape of electricity in rural America, where demand is soaring with the advent of smart technologies and electric vehicles. Cally and I discuss the intricate challenges posed by the shift from traditional power sources to renewables. Despite the complexities, we bring promising news of how electric cooperatives are stepping up with strategic plans to meet future energy needs, ensuring continual reliability for rural North Dakotans.

Step into the heart of rural communities, where the cooperative principle of concern for community thrives. Together with Cally, I highlight the integral role of cooperative employees and the charm of local museums that weave rich tales of North Dakota's past. We encourage active community engagement, inviting listeners to contribute to the vibrant tapestry that makes rural life unique. Join us in this celebration of community spirit and shared efforts that keep rural North Dakota flourishing.

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Unlock the secrets to safeguarding your agricultural legacy as we sit down with John Benson from Heartland Trust. With potential changes looming over estate tax laws, including the possible sunset of the Trump-era tax cuts in 2026, understanding the implications for estate exclusion amounts is crucial. Through this insightful discussion, we promise to guide you through the essentials of holistic estate planning, ensuring your assets are transferred seamlessly and your financial legacy remains intact.

John Benson shares his expert insights on effective estate planning tools specifically designed for farmland owners. We explore strategies such as the Spousal Lifetime Access Trust and the benefits of forming partnerships or limited liability partnerships. In addition, the significance of aligning with your existing team of professionals is highlighted to tailor personalized plans that reflect your family's unique needs and history. Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of farm succession planning with confidence.

Clear communication and fair inheritance are pivotal in family legacy planning, especially within agricultural families. Our conversation touches on the importance of family meetings to discuss expectations, capabilities, and succession plans, minimizing potential disputes. By examining the role of trust documents and adaptable estate plans, we emphasize the importance of preserving your family's hard work for future generations. Join us as we unravel these vital strategies with real-life examples and expert advice, ensuring your family's legacy endures.

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Join us on a journey where agricultural innovation meets fire safety, as we uncover the groundbreaking work of Dave Garley from Cross Plains Solutions. Discover how soy foam, an eco-friendly, biodegradable alternative to hazardous firefighting foams, is revolutionizing the industry. With insights from seasoned firefighter Chris Prock, we explore the transition of this innovative foam into real-world application, particularly within rural fire departments across the United States.

Uncover the rigorous development process of soy foam, a collaboration with Chippewa Valley Technical College, which ensured the foam met the highest standards and received crucial certification. Dave Garley reveals the partnership’s impact on refining the foam, leveraging feedback from frontline firefighters. This advancement not only promises enhanced fire safety in rural areas but also piques interest for applications in broader markets, such as the Department of Defense, signifying a monumental leap in firefighting technology.

Highlighting the foam's successful demonstration at the Big Iron event, we discuss how community support and strategic distribution, led by Alan Snipes and backed by the Soybean Council, are propelling soy foam into widespread use. Fire departments are eagerly testing this environmentally friendly solution, appreciating its ability to conserve water and reduce the need for hazardous material response teams. Soy foam is not just a product; it’s a movement towards safer firefighting and sustainable agricultural practices.

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Scott Bachmeier, host of Dakota Prairie Outdoors, joins us to unravel the complexities of wildlife management amidst the rugged beauty of North Dakota’s Badlands. Our conversation kicks off with a deep dive into how EHD is shaping the future of deer populations, with whitetail and mule deer navigating the slow road to recovery. Scott doesn't shy away from addressing the rise of coyotes, dissecting how market and environmental shifts are impacting hunters and investors alike. His expertise paints a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities facing wildlife enthusiasts and landowners in this ever-changing landscape.

We then steer our discussion towards the vital crossroads of wildlife management and agriculture. The cattle industry is riding a wave not seen since the early 2010s, and we're unpacking what this boom means for ranchers eager to expand their horizons. It's a balancing act between seizing growth opportunities and exercising caution in a market that demands strategic foresight. With echoes of 1962's low cattle numbers and high prices, the conversation underscores the necessity of planning for both the runaway successes and the inevitable downturns that define this cyclical field.

As our chat rounds out, we spotlight the transformative power of professional land management, particularly for baby boomers on the cusp of retirement. We draw compelling parallels between managing real estate and financial assets, emphasizing the potential to unlock greater returns through savvy management. The episode culminates in an exploration of the buoyant Angus and Red Angus bull sales, celebrating the resilience of ranchers and the ongoing surge in cattle popularity. From proven genetics to the intricacies of purebred ventures, there's plenty for budding producers to consider as they carve their path in the cattle industry.

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Growing up on a potato farm in Southeast Idaho, I never imagined my path would lead me to the bustling world of agricultural machinery auctions. Yet, those early days on the farm sowed the seeds of a passion that would guide my career, moving me from the fields of Idaho to the heart of the Midwest auction scene. This episode, join Jim Sabe and his guest, Chris Bair from our Worthing office near Sioux Falls, as we uncover the fascinating journey through the landscapes of North and South Dakota and explore the vibrant life of auctioneering.

What makes live auctions so compelling in our digital age? Chris and I delve into the resurgence of traditional auction events, especially in areas like Eastern North Dakota and South Dakota, where they thrive as lively social gatherings. We’ll reflect on the impacts of extreme weather shifts, the strategic importance of our Sioux Falls facility, and the unique stories behind each auction that bring communities together. Highlighting our dedicated team members, including the ever-energetic Jeff Polk, we discuss how their expertise continues to drive record-breaking results at Pifers, proving the unmatched energy of live auctions.

Finally, we tackle the evolving dynamics between live and online auctions, offering insights into the balance between tradition and innovation. Chris shares exciting upcoming auctions and the community spirit that makes these events truly unique. Whether it's through the personal connections or the thrill of the bidding process, this episode promises a glimpse into the dynamic and ever-evolving world of auctioneering. Join us in celebrating the rich human stories and immense dedication that fuel our passion for auctions.

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Ever wondered how journalism can bridge the gap between agriculture and the everyday world? In our latest episode, we sit down with Mikkel Pates, a seasoned journalist whose career spans over four fascinating decades. Inspired by his father’s work in agricultural communications and his upbringing on a ranch, Mikkel embarked on a journey that led him to chronicle the stories of rural America. From his first role in Worthington, Minnesota, to the playful yet impactful rivalry between SDSU and NDSU, Mikkel shares how these experiences shaped his unique perspective on agriculture journalism.

Explore the intriguing world where faith intersects with business through the story of a Jerusalem artichoke venture in Minnesota. We dive into the complexities of a business that used religious beliefs as a marketing strategy, only to spiral into controversy with its pyramid scheme-like structure. Mikkel sheds light on the motivations and vulnerabilities of those involved, revealing the untold stories behind this faith-based endeavor. His approach to gaining trust and encouraging openness from interviewees offers insights into the human side of journalism that often goes unnoticed.

The episode takes a sharp turn towards the challenges faced in the evolving landscape of agricultural reporting. Mikkel reflects on the transition from traditional media to the digital age, where sensationalism often eclipses the substantive reporting. We journey through pivotal agricultural events like the farm credit crisis of the 1980s and the rise of co-ops in the 1990s, leading to the modern cautionary tale of Hunter Hansen's grain trading fraud. As Mikkel enjoys his retirement, we celebrate his lasting impact while extracting valuable lessons from his storied career.

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