The Cereal Grain Café

Season 4, Episode 9 - Breeding Oats and Other Small Grains – with Dr. Juan Arbelaez

This is Part 2 of a two-part series.  In this insightful conversation, I meet with Juan Arbelaez from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to explore the evolving science of oat breeding. From unlocking the genetic potential of oats to improving yield, nutrition, and resilience, Dr. Arbelaez shares how modern breeding tools are helping elevate this often-overlooked crop. We dive into the challenges and opportunities facing oat production, and how innovation is positioning oats for a stronger role in sustainable agriculture and healthy food systems. Whether you’re a producer, researcher, or simply an oat enthusiast, this conversation offers a fresh look at the future of this versatile grain. More information about his work can be found at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s Small Grains Improvement team [https://smallgrains.web.illinois.edu/wp/]. Our music is Inspiring Cinematic Asia [https://pixabay.com/it/music/search/inspiration%20asian/?manual_search=1&order=None] by Lexin Music, which is available at Pixabay [https://pixabay.com/].

Season 4, Episode 8 - Breeding Wheat and Other Small Grains – with Dr. Jessica Rutkoski

This is Part 1 of a two-part series.  In this engaging conversation, I sit down with Jessica Rutkoski from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to dig into the science and strategy behind modern wheat breeding. From harnessing genetics to accelerate selection, to developing resilient varieties that can withstand disease and shifting climates, Dr. Rutkoski shares how cutting-edge breeding approaches are reshaping one of the world’s most essential crops. We explore the balance between yield, quality, and sustainability—and how today’s innovations are helping secure the future of wheat production. Whether you’re in the field or the lab, this conversation offers a compelling look at how plant breeding continues to evolve to meet global challenges. More information about her work can be found at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s Small Grains Improvement team [https://smallgrains.web.illinois.edu/wp/]. Our music is Inspiring Cinematic Asia [https://pixabay.com/it/music/search/inspiration%20asian/?manual_search=1&order=None] by Lexin Music, which is available at Pixabay [https://pixabay.com/].

Season 4, Episode 7 - Plants, Genes, and Agriculture – with Dr. Paul Gepts

In this fascinating conversation, I sit down with Paul Gepts of University of California, Davis to explore the powerful intersection of plants, genes, and biotechnology. From decoding the genetic stories hidden within crops to advancing tools that are reshaping modern agriculture, Dr. Gepts shares insights from a career at the forefront of plant science. We dive into how genetics is unlocking new possibilities for crop improvement, food security, and sustainability—and what it all means for the future of farming. Whether you’re rooted in agriculture or simply curious about the science behind the food we eat, this conversation reveals how cutting-edge biology is transforming the field from the ground up. More information about his work can be found at his UC Davis webpage [https://www.plantsciences.ucdavis.edu/people/paul-gepts]. Our music is Inspiring Cinematic Asia [https://pixabay.com/it/music/search/inspiration%20asian/?manual_search=1&order=None] by Lexin Music, which is available at Pixabay [https://pixabay.com/].

Season 4, Episode 6 - What's Up with Wheat - with Claudia Carter

From sunlit fields to global markets, wheat sits at the heart of the grain economy.  Few understand its journey better than Claudia Carter of the California Wheat Commission. In this insightful conversation, we dive into the unique dynamics of wheat production, quality, and trade, exploring how California’s distinct growing conditions shape both functionality and value. Dr. Carter shares her perspective on connecting farmers to end users, advancing wheat research, and navigating the challenges and opportunities facing the grain industry today, offering listeners a compelling look at where wheat is heading next. More information about her work at the commission can be found at their website [https://www.californiawheat.org/]. Our music is Inspiring Cinematic Asia [https://pixabay.com/it/music/search/inspiration%20asian/?manual_search=1&order=None] by Lexin Music, which is available at Pixabay [https://pixabay.com/].

Season 4, Episode 5 - Words of Wisdom - with Charlie Hurburgh

Few people have shaped modern grain handling and quality management as profoundly as Charlie Hurburgh. In this engaging conversation, we explore his decades of work at Iowa State University, where science meets the real-world challenges of storing, measuring, and preserving grain. From the evolution of grain grading and moisture measurement to the future of data-driven decision-making in the industry, Dr. Hurburgh offers sharp insights, practical wisdom, and a behind-the-scenes look at how research and Extension have transformed the way grain moves from field to market. More information about his work and his publications can be found at his Iowa Grain Quality Initiative website at Iowa State University [https://www.extension.iastate.edu/grain/]. Our music is Inspiring Cinematic Asia [https://pixabay.com/it/music/search/inspiration%20asian/?manual_search=1&order=None] by Lexin Music, which is available at Pixabay [https://pixabay.com/].