#70: Why Soil Structure Might Be Your #1 Yield Driver

The Factory is Built... How Do We Maximize Production?

This episode starts by breaking down the yield equation and answering a fundamental question: how much of yield is really in Mother Nature's hands, and what can growers still influence? The answer lies in kernel weight—the one yield component that can still be impacted from R1 through R6. The key is understanding the physiology of the finish and managing crop stress during the grain-fill period. In this long-form conversation, Sean Nettleton and Mason Claude dive into the leading causes of crop stress, protein breakdown within the plant, soil test interpretation, nodule health, and practical strategies to help crops finish stronger and maximize yield potential. If your goal is to push yield this season, it's not too late. Start with this episode.

#75: Finding Trusted Voices in Modern Ag Media

In Episode 75 of Crop Cast, Sean Nettleton sits down with Dustin Hoffmann [https://x.com/Dustin_IAAgBiz], Supervising Editor and Lead Farm Broadcaster for the Iowa Agribusiness Radio Network [https://iowaagribusinessradionetwork.com/], to discuss the evolving landscape of agricultural media. The conversation explores the relationship between podcasts and local radio, the importance of journalistic integrity, the challenges facing modern agriculture, and why building trust with both farmers and consumers has never been more critical.

#74: Nitrogen Pt. 2: Timing, Sulfur, and Smarter Nitrogen Management

In this follow-up nitrogen discussion, the Crop Cast team dives into real-world observations from across the Corn Belt and Northern Plains, examining how weather, soil conditions, nitrogen forms, and application timing impact crop performance. The conversation highlights why nitrogen should be managed as a season-long strategy rather than a one-time application, with a strong focus on sulfur, carbon, calcium availability, and nutrient efficiency. Stay tuned for Part 3...

#73: Nitrogen Pt. 1: The Biggest Opportunities Farmers Are Missing

In this episode of Crop Cast, host Sean Nettleton with Mason Claude and Jaren Schley take a deep dive into nitrogen management during side-dress season and challenge some long-held agronomic assumptions. The conversation covers timing versus total nitrogen rates, why placement and weather matter more than ever, and how growers can potentially reduce nitrogen use while maintaining or improving yield. The crew also breaks down the flaws of traditional nitrate testing and explains how BW Fusion [https://bwfusion.com/]’s SET (Side-dress Efficiency Test) approach provides a more complete picture for in-season fertility decisions.

#72: Mind Your Melon: Breaking the Silence Around Mental Health in Agriculture

In this episode of Crop Cast, host Sean sits down with Florida farmer and Marshal Sewell to discuss the mental health challenges facing the agricultural community. Marshall shares the deeply personal story that inspired the creation of the Mind Your Melon Foundation [https://mindyourmelon.org?utm_source=chatgpt.com] and explains why breaking the stigma around mental health in farming is more important than ever. The conversation dives into resilience, peer support, generational pressure, and the importance of proactive mental wellness in agriculture.