Leaders in agriculture were in action this week across the globe. Braeden and Savannah are back with trending headlines impacting your operation.

On the docket today:

- Brazil poultry faces highly pathogenic avian influenza, which could impact US corn and soybean exports.

- U.S. Soybean farmers can expect more supply chain challenges this year as input costs continue to rise and trade with China is turbulent.

- Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has been visiting the country and the UK, talking border biosecurity, global trade, and health policy.

Clemens Food Group has agreed to a $13.5 million settlement in a multidistrict antitrust lawsuit alleging price-fixing in the pork industry.

- Coca-Cola just announced Sprite + Tea, a new limited-time flavor inspired by a viral TikTok trend.



About Magnetic Ag - Ears Edition

Your ag news just got an upgrade. Magnetic Ag - Ears Edition isn’t your grandpa’s farm report — it’s fast, unfiltered and actually fun. It’s your quick weekly update on what’s happening in the world of food and ag.

Subscribe to the Magnetic Ag twice-weekly news letter: https://magnetic-ag.com/subscribe/

Brazilian Poultry HPAI Outbreak, U.S. Soybean Industry and Sprite

Technology in agriculture isn't about the most expensive tractors — it's about solving real problems.

In this episode of the Cultivating Leaders Podcast, Teddy Bekele, Chief Technology Officer at Land O’Lakes, explores the powerful intersection of agriculture, technology, and leadership. Teddy offers insight on what it takes to lead meaningful change in a tradition-rich industry.

He opens up about:

 * Changing Team Organizations Structure: restructuring teams for better business integration
 * Adopting Digital Change in Ag: farmers, the original entrepreneurs, adopt innovations when there's clear, demonstrable value
 * Transformative Ideas for the Future of Ag: his bold vision for the future includes circularity and personalized nutrition

Teddy challenges leaders to rethink risk, embrace innovation, and lead with purpose.



Connect with Teddy

 * Connect on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/teddy-bekele-b48219/]
 * Visit Land O’Lakes’ website - Here [https://www.landolakesinc.com/]



Connect with AFA

 * Follow us on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/agriculture-future-of-america/?viewAsMember=true]
 * Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/agfutureamerica/]
 * Like us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/agriculturefutureofamerica/]
 * Follow us on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@agfutureamerica?_t=8itRyZdNDP5&_r=1]
 * Visit our Website [https://www.agfuture.org/?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIy-mznZSbiAMVem8PAh0IFRDIEAAYASAAEgKpc_D_BwE]



About The Cultivating Leaders Podcast

Real stories. Practical advice. Tangible growth. Join The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, brought to you by Agriculture Future of America, as we explore what it takes to lead in food, agriculture, and beyond.  Whether you’re just starting out or leading at the highest level, this podcast is your go-to resource for leadership that matters. Listen now and start cultivating your leadership journey.

Don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss another episode!

Leading Digital Transformation in Agriculture with Teddy Bekele

Another big week in food and agriculture. Braeden and Savannah are here to break down some top headlines impacting your bottom line.

On the docket today:

- The FDA just approved the first ever gene-edited pig resistant to PRRS, potentially saving the pork industry billions. Learn more here: https://www.prrsresistantpig.com/2025/04/30/pic-receives-fda-approval-for-technology-used-to-breed-prrs-resistant-pigs/?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=Facebook+Post&utm_campaign=FDA+Approves+PRP&fbclid=IwY2xjawKCD49leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFHdTVMdHVxUGtMa2JFUlh2AR67s59ObpLfYs1HSTUj7_-0RvzLc1rmUZq4QAt0zdV5Gos8beS9wC0TvAn7dw_aem_vXDCc3b-SQYUD-vUC1pOhw

- Bayer is continuing is push to limit legal liabilities on glyphosate by urging the U.S. Supreme Court to step in. Learn more here: https://www.agweb.com/news/key-updates-how-two-legal-developments-could-impact-glyphosate-cases

- A new website just dropped and is part of a national push to get congress involved in the California Prop 12 law. Learn more here: https://www.swineweb.com/latest-swine-news/opponents-of-prop-12-launch-website-to-pressure-congress-on-food-prices/

- The FDA has approved three new natural food color additives, reflecting consumers growing demand for cleaner labels and natural ingredients. Learn more here: https://www.food-safety.com/articles/10380-fda-approves-three-food-colors-from-natural-sources

- Sprite surpasses Pepsi to become America's third favorite soft drink. Learn more here: https://www.fooddive.com/news/how-sprite-surpassed-pepsi-living-breathing-pop-culture/747381/



About Magnetic Ag - Ears Edition

Your ag news just got an upgrade. Magnetic Ag - Ears Edition isn’t your grandpa’s farm report — it’s fast, unfiltered and actually fun. It’s your quick weekly update on what’s happening in the world of food and ag.

Subscribe to the Magnetic Ag twice-weekly news letter: https://magnetic-ag.com/subscribe/

Gene-edited Pigs, Prop 12 and Food Dyes

In a culture that says, “tough it out”, perhaps the most strength comes from vulnerability and courage. In this episode of the Cultivating Leaders Podcast, John Sachse – cattleman, Army National Guard officer, and AFA alum – explores what it really takes to build a resilient mindset. John shares how military training and returning to the family ranch shaped his approach to leadership, service, and mental toughness.



John breaks down:

- What it Means to be Resilient: it is about developing a mindset that allows you to bounce back from adversity

- Strengthening Mental Resilience: there is power of setting meaningful goals and connecting them to your “why”

- Leaning into Vulnerability: challenging the traditional agricultural norm that discourage emotional openness



John gets real about the hard stuff and how to push through it. This episode will challenge you to show up differently, embrace discomfort, and lean into growth.



Connect with John

- Connect on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-sachse-bb619157/]

- Follow him on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/coachjohnsachse/]

- Visit his website - Here [https://ranchfitcoaching.com/]



Connect with AFA

- Follow us on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/agriculture-future-of-america/?viewAsMember=true]

- Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/agfutureamerica/]

- Like us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/agriculturefutureofamerica/]

- Follow us on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@agfutureamerica?_t=8itRyZdNDP5&_r=1]

- Visit our Website [https://www.agfuture.org/?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIy-mznZSbiAMVem8PAh0IFRDIEAAYASAAEgKpc_D_BwE]



About The Cultivating Leaders Podcast

Real stories. Practical advice. Tangible growth. Join The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, brought to you by Agriculture Future of America, as we explore what it takes to lead in food, agriculture, and beyond. Whether you’re just starting out or leading at the highest level, this podcast is your go-to resource for leadership that matters. Listen now and start cultivating your leadership journey.

Don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss another episode!

Building a Resilient Mindset with John Sachse

Level-up your career by investing in the relationships that really matter. David Nothmann — a seasoned strategic growth leader with 25+ years of experience in agriculture, technology, and food innovation—joins the Cultivating Leaders Podcast for a discussion around building relationships. He shares practical insights on how leaders can build trust intentionally, approach networking as a learned skill, and play the long game when it comes to cultivating influence.

David dives into:

 1. Relationships as an Asset: Real success is built through authentic, long-term relationships
 2. Networking How-To’s: It takes an intentional mindset, preparation, and follow up.
 3. Building Trust in Professional Relationships: Investing in people early builds the trust needed when stakes are high.

Whether you're navigating career growth or leading change, David's mindset of "relationships first" offers a blueprint for a lasting leadership impact.

The Art of Networking with David Nothmann

Have you ever felt like an outsider in the industry you were raised in? In this episode of the Cultivating Leaders Podcast, we welcome Courtenay DeHoff—television host, fifth-generation rancher, and founder of the Fancy Lady Cowgirl movement—for a bold conversation about pursuing a fulfilling career, challenging exclusion in agriculture, and empowering bold ideas.

Courtenay shares great advice around:

- Encouraging bold change: How exclusion in ag holds the industry back—and what to do about it

- Authenticity as a superpower: Identity and individuality fuel impact

- Finding your place in ag: Pursuing purpose despite pushback

This episode will challenge you to show up fully, lead unapologetically, and create space for others to do the same.



Connect with Courtenay

- Connect on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtenaydehoff/]

- Follow her on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/courtdehoff/]

- Like her on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/courtenaydehoffTV]

- Follow her on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@courtdehoff]

- Visit her Website [https://www.courtenaydehoff.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawJzTCJleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHmbBP6OahYQJ7e-m8uTVU-uzxjSMBJ-5vWKjgFXMoCHnb9QRfUKw782ZMVpt_aem_zl40bf9YrnozBloAltrXFg]



Connect with AFA

- Follow us on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/agriculture-future-of-america/?viewAsMember=true]

- Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/agfutureamerica/]

- Like us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/agriculturefutureofamerica/]

- Follow us on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@agfutureamerica?_t=8itRyZdNDP5&_r=1]

- Visit our Website [https://www.agfuture.org/?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIy-mznZSbiAMVem8PAh0IFRDIEAAYASAAEgKpc_D_BwE]



About The Cultivating Leaders Podcast

Real stories. Practical advice. Tangible growth. Join The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, brought to you by Agriculture Future of America, as we explore what it takes to lead in food, agriculture, and beyond. Whether you’re just starting out or leading at the highest level, this podcast is your go-to resource for leadership that matters. Listen now and start cultivating your leadership journey.

Don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss another episode!

Finding Your Voice to Inspire Change with Courtenay DeHoff

Growing season is quickly approaching and researchers recently discovered a new Bt protein that is more powerful. In the weeds - this new protein relies on two receptor pathways, so for a pest to survive, it needs to mutate twice to overcome the Bt protein.

- Headline Story: https://www.morningagclips.com/natures-plan-for-delaying-pest-resistance-deciphered/

As always, the pair covered some fun and real stories through quick hits and live reactions. You can expect to learn more about the impact of the pet food industry, cotton seed in dairy cattle's diet and newly proposed climate change initiatives.

Other resources mentioned in the episode:

- Advancing Markets for Producers Act: https://www.agri-pulse.com/articles/22738-rollins-overhauls-renames-climate-smart-commodities-initiative?utm_term=0_-a348fcf9f9-48951597

- Cotton Seed in Dairy's Diet: https://www.morningagclips.com/feeding-dairy-cows-whole-cottonseed-byproduct-boosts-milk-fat-researchers-find/

- Meat and Poultry Special Investigator Act of 2025: https://www.drovers.com/news/ag-policy/meat-and-poultry-special-investigator-act-introduced-promote-fair-play

- Pet Food: https://www.meatpoultry.com/articles/31726-ifeeder-estimates-132-billion-worth-of-ingredients-used-in-us-pet-food-industry

- Easter Butter Lambs: https://www.foodandwine.com/news/easter-butter-lamb-meaning

About Magnetic Ag - Ears Edition

Your ag news just got an upgrade. Magnetic Ag - Ears Edition isn’t your grandpa’s farm report — it’s fast, unfiltered and actually fun. It’s your quick weekly update on what’s happening in the world of food and ag.

Subscribe to the Magnetic Ag twice-weekly news letter: https://magnetic-ag.com/subscribe/

Pest Resistance, Pet Food and Easter Butter Lambs

What does it take to build a lasting, meaningful career in agriculture? In this episode, Matt Plitt, President and CEO of Valent USA, shares his insights on leading with intention, creating a strong workplace culture and navigating a rapidly changing industry. From personal growth to sustainable leadership strategies, this conversation is a masterclass in what it means to lead with purpose.

Matt dives into:

- Creating an Effective Workplace Culture: How he empowers his team

- Embracing a Changing Industry: Practicing innovation and an open mindset

- The Power of Personal Investment: Leading yourself well to inspire others

Matt drops some great advice for leading through people, purpose and growth to make the most out of your career.

Connect with Matt

- Connect on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-plitt-44869b25/]

About Valent U.S.A

- Visit their Website [https://www.valent.com/]

- Connect on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/valent-usa/]

Connect with AFA

- Follow us on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/agriculture-future-of-america/?viewAsMember=true]

- Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/agfutureamerica/]

- Like us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/agriculturefutureofamerica/]

- Follow us on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@agfutureamerica?_t=8itRyZdNDP5&_r=1]

- Visit our Website [https://www.agfuture.org/?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIy-mznZSbiAMVem8PAh0IFRDIEAAYASAAEgKpc_D_BwE]

About The Cultivating Leaders Podcast

Real stories. Practical advice. Tangible growth. Join The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, brought to you by Agriculture Future of America, as we explore what it takes to lead in food, agriculture, and beyond. Whether you’re just starting out or leading at the highest level, this podcast is your go-to resource for leadership that matters. Listen now and start cultivating your leadership journey.

Don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss another episode!

Sustaining a Purpose-Driven Career in Ag with Matt Plitt

Farmers market season is quickly approaching! A new report shares farmers markets are a seasonal destination for a majority of Americans because of their health benefits, community connections and economic value.

- Headline Story: https://www.morningagclips.com/national-survey-reveals-diverse-benefits-of-farmers-market-attendance/

As always, the pair covered some fun and real stories through quick hits and live reactions. You can expect to learn more about changing milk regulations, growing scallops and food trends for 2025.

Other resources mentioned in the episode:

- Vogue's food & fashion trends: https://www.voguebusiness.com/story/fashion/6-food-trends-fashion-needs-to-know-about-in-2025?utm_source=chatgpt.com  [https://www.voguebusiness.com/story/fashion/6-food-trends-fashion-needs-to-know-about-in-2025?utm_source=chatgpt.com]

- Whole milk in schools: https://www.foodandwine.com/whole-milk-for-healthy-kids-act-11709889 [https://statics.teams.cdn.office.net/evergreen-assets/safelinks/1/atp-safelinks.html]

- Growing Scallops: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250404201325.htm



About Magnetic Ag - Ears Edition

Your ag news just got an upgrade. Magnetic Ag - Ears Edition isn’t your grandpa’s farm report — it’s fast, unfiltered and actually fun. It’s your quick weekly update on what’s happening in the world of food and ag.

Subscribe to the Magnetic Ag twice-weekly news letter: https://magnetic-ag.com/subscribe/

Farmers Markets, Bee Colonies and Fashion Trends

Great leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about trust, humility, and impact. In this episode, Scott Stump, CEO of the National FFA Organization, shares his experience on what it means to lead with integrity, empower teams, and stay open to growth. He shares a wealth of knowledge around the future leaders of the agriculture industry and how seasoned professionals can accelerate their potential.



Scott shares more on:

- The Current State of Ag Education: Where he sees gems and gaps

- Trends for the Future of Agriculture: His thoughts on new technologies and innovations

- Practicing Humility: The importance of learning from past mistakes



With Scott’s personal experience as a leader and educator, this conversation will challenge you to connect with future agriculture leaders and embrace your unique leadership skills.



Connect with Scott

- Connect on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-stump-b1195529/]



About the National FFA Organization

- Visit their Website [https://www.ffa.org/]

- Connect on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/national-ffa-organization/]



Connect with AFA

- Follow us on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/agriculture-future-of-america/?viewAsMember=true]

- Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/agfutureamerica/]

- Like us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/agriculturefutureofamerica/]

- Follow us on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@agfutureamerica?_t=8itRyZdNDP5&_r=1]

- Visit our Website [https://www.agfuture.org/?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIy-mznZSbiAMVem8PAh0IFRDIEAAYASAAEgKpc_D_BwE]



About The Cultivating Leaders Podcast

Real stories. Practical advice. Tangible growth. Join The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, brought to you by Agriculture Future of America, as we explore what it takes to lead in food, agriculture, and beyond. Whether you’re just starting out or leading at the highest level, this podcast is your go-to resource for leadership that matters. Listen now and start cultivating your leadership journey.

Don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss another episode!

Leading and Learning from the Future of Agriculture with Scott Stump

Where leadership grows.

Welcome to The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, where we dig into the minds of today’s most inspiring leaders to uncover the insights, habits, and strategies that help them thrive. Brought to you by Agriculture Future of America (AFA), this podcast delivers actionable leadership lessons tailored for professionals in food and agriculture—and beyond.

Each episode features candid conversations with industry changemakers, thought leaders, and innovators like New York Times bestselling author Diana Kander, National 4-H Council VP Jake Worcester, and TEDx speaker Adam Carroll. Whether you're an emerging leader or a seasoned professional, we’ll provide tangible tips to help you grow and lead with confidence.

Tune in for practical advice, personal stories and fresh perspectives to help you cultivate your own career and leadership journey.

Cultivating Leaders

Your ag news just got an upgrade. Magnetic Ag - Ears Edition isn’t your grandpa’s farm report — it’s fast, unfiltered and actually fun. It’s your 10 minute a week update on what’s happening in the world of food and ag.

Braeden & Savannah break down the biggest headlines, industry buzz, pop culture and wild trends shaking up the industry. Whether you’re running the farm, grinding through college, or just here for the drama, we’ve got you.

If you don’t walk away with a sharper ag IQ, at least you’ll have killer small talk for your next industry happy hour.

Listen now & subscribe to the newsletter for twice-weekly ag tea. 👉 Subscribe here [https://magnetic-ag.com/]

Savannah Peterson

Shows