We are serving up a full plate of ag news featuring updates on U.S. cattle herds, NOAA budget cuts and food eating contests. Braeden and Savannah are feasting on ag headlines!

In the headlines this week:

- U.S. Cattle herds rebuilding may be underway as feedlots report a drop in heifer placements. Learn more here: https://www.farmprogress.com/livestock/cattle-markets-poised-for-further-gains-as-heifer-retention-signals-tighter-supplies

- Del Monte Foods, a large supplier of canned fruits and veggies, just filed for bankruptcy. Learn more here: https://www.fooddive.com/news/canned-fruit-and-vegetable-maker-del-monte-foods-declares-bankruptcy-seeks/752181/

- The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration budget aims to downsize climate research funding, impacting farmers' long-term planning abilities.

- Update: Tyson Foods' Amarillo beef plant and union workers reached a new contract delivering improved working conditions and wages for workers. Learn more here: https://www.agdaily.com/news/tyson-workers-in-texas-approve-deal-after-strike-threat/

- July 4th welcomed eating contests and record wins.

Cattle Herds, Climate Research and Food Festivities

Courtney White, Head of HR for BASF Agricultural Solutions North America and Global Inclusion Officer, joins The Cultivating Leaders Podcast to dive into the power of inclusion and the value of Human Resources. Courtney shares how today’s most effective HR strategies go beyond hiring—they curate culture. He unpacks what it means to put people first, why timing matters just as much as talent, and how psychological safety drives retention and innovation. Plus, Courtney brings a powerful perspective on inclusion, showing that true belonging is built on mutual respect, everyday courage, and intentional leadership.

Courtney dives into:

- Inclusion is Rooted in Respect: it is a daily practice grounded in mutual respect and is upheld by everyday choices and courage

- The Value of People-centric HR: modern HR must go beyond filling roles to curating culture

- Leading with Courage and Curiosity: leaders must embrace inclusion, ask more than they tell and model respectful behavior

Whether you’re building a team or leading one, this episode offers fresh insights on growing people and purpose in tandem.



Connect with Courtney

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

- Follow BASF on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/basf/]

- Visit the BASF Website [https://www.basf.com/us/en]



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!

Curating a Curious and Courageous Culture with Courtney White

Hemp in dairy diets, Roundup in court, and beef processing workers on strike—agriculture’s not just growing crops, it's breaking headlines. Braeden and Savannah are here to keep you in the know.



In the headlines this week:

- New research reveals that feeding dairy cows spent hemp biomass could be a viable option, if fed correctly. Learn more here: https://www.morningagclips.com/thc-undetectable-after-withdrawal-period-in-cows-fed-hemp-byproduct/

- The Supreme Court asked the U.S. Solicitor General to weigh in on a legal dispute between Bayer and the courts regarding Roundup. Learn more here: https://www.dtnpf.com/agriculture/web/ag/crops/article/2025/06/30/supreme-court-requests-solicitor-12

- Changes are coming to the USDA, including staff cuts, food safety frameworks,  and avian influenza protocol. Learn more here: https://www.meatpoultry.com/articles/32082-following-food-safety-reforms

- Workers at Tyson's Amarillo beef plant have authorized a strike. What does that mean for the beef supply chain? Learn more here: https://www.meatpoultry.com/articles/32104-workers-at-tyson-amarillo-plant-authorize-strike

- The 2025 College National Finals Rodeo crowned champions in Casper, Wyoming. Check out the winners: https://www.yardbarker.com/rodeo/articles/college_national_finals_rodeo_results_2025_champions/s1_17312_42362438



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/.

Bayer's Roundup, USDA Update and Tyson Worker Strike

A fifth-generation meat purveyor has grown her business built on tradition by leading with innovation and grit.

Suzanne Strassburger, fifth-generation meat purveyor and president of Strassburger Meats, joins The Cultivating Leaders Podcast. She opens up about the reality of being a woman leader in the meat industry and evolving her family’s business. Suzanne’s leadership mindset led her back to business school at age 50, built a culture of women employees, and enabled her to thrive through decades of industry change.

Suzanne opens up about:

 * Continuing a Family Legacy: five-generations deep, Suzanne juggles honoring her family’s heritage while embracing new technologies
 * Leading through Industry Diversity: for many years, she was one of the few women leading in the meat industry, but now 40% of her employees are women
 * Investing in Continuing Education: she is a testament that great leaders never stop learning by going back to business school, taking AI classes and offering a long list of leadership books

This episode is packed with raw stories and hard-won wisdom, packed into great stories from Suzanne’s lifetime in the business.

Connect with Suzanne

 * Connect on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzannestrassburger/]
 * Visit the Strassburger Steaks website - Here [https://www.strassburgersteaks.com/]
 * Strassburger Steaks on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/strassburgersteaks/]
 * Strassburger Steaks on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/strassburgersteaks]
 * Visit the Suzy Sirloin website - Here [https://www.suzysirloin.com/]
 * Suzy Sirloin on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/suzysirloin/]
 * Suzy Sirloin on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/SuzySirloinInc]

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!

Breaking Barriers and Building Business with Suzanne Strassburger

This week's episode bites, brews and breaks down the biggest headlines in food and agriculture. Braeden and Savannah are back with another episode, and they get real excited about coffee and sweet treats.

In the headlines this week:

- The Asian Longhorned Tick has been confirmed in more than 20 states and is spreading rapidly to humans and livestock. Learn more here: https://www.agweb.com/news/livestock/beef-producers-be-aware-dangerous-asian-longhorned-tick-continues-migrating-west

- A new study confirms that corn after soy boosts corn yield, but it may not be the perfect production practice for everyone. Learn more here: https://www.morningagclips.com/corn-after-soy-new-study-quantifies-rotation-benefits-trade-offs/

- The Senate GOP tax package extends critical deductions, plus benefits renewable and traditional fuels. Learn more here: https://www.agri-pulse.com/articles/23063-senate-gop-tax-package-extends-business-income-deduction-expands-expensing-allowance?utm_source=Instant+Update&utm_campaign=6354796a4e-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_02_23_COPY_6150&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_288ff2b53a-6354796a4e-50535777

- Nescafe has already beaten its 2025 climate-smart goal of sourcing 32% of its coffee from farms using regenerative ag practices. Learn more here: https://www.fooddive.com/news/nestle-coffee-brand-nescafe-surpasses-2025-regenerative-agriculture-goal-ESG-farming/750908/

- David Beckham just launched Beeup, a honey-based fruit snack, tapping into the "healthier treat" space. Learn more here: https://www.fooddive.com/news/david-beckham-launches-beeup-kids-snack-brand/750591/



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/.

Dangerous Ticks, Tax Packages and Sweet Treats

What would be your strategy if you only had one shot to negotiate a billion-dollar trade deal?

Gregg Doud, President and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation, joins this episode of The Cultivating Leaders Podcast. From his roots on a Kansas farm to the global stage of international trade, Gregg shares his career journey marked by dedication, conviction and service to U.S. agriculture. He shares a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to negotiate billion-dollar trade deals, and why technical knowledge, cultural awareness and clear communication are vital skills.

Gregg dives into:

- The Complexity of Negotiations: it requires technical, cultural, and strategic awareness

- Principles of Effective Leadership: the importance of knowing what you want before entering a room

- The Importance of Relationships: strong mentors have guided his career and prepared him for hard conversations

Gregg’s stories and advice give great insight into a career in agriculture, policy and business.



Connect with Gregg

- Connect on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregg-doud-72178a/]



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!

Negotiating for U.S. Agriculture with Gregg Doud

Summer is here, which means good vibes and the summer grind are hot topics. The duo is tuning in with updates on corn markets, deportation, and fun food finds.



In the headlines this week:

- Research confirms California dairy digesters are cutting back emissions. Learn more here: https://www.morningagclips.com/a-california-dairy-tried-to-capture-its-methane-it-worked/

- Corn prices are down and contracts are short, leaving farmers confused on sales strategies heading into the summer run. Learn more here: https://www.farmprogress.com/commentary/corn-market-volatility-challenges-farmers-is-a-june-rally-possible

- Secretary Rollins stands in support of deportation as the Department of Homeland Security tries to ease disruptions along the food supply. Learn more here: https://www.agri-pulse.com/articles/23058-rollins-insists-shes-aligned-on-immigration-agenda-as-trump-protects-farmworkers?utm_term=0_-f97ddbfdf1-48951597

- FDA-approved Lab-grown salmon, the first of its kind, is hitting markets in the Northwest. Learn more here: https://www.fooddive.com/news/wildtype-lab-grown-salmon-fda-clearance/750518/

- Nissin Foods Cup Noodles is releasing a limited-edition Dill Pickle flavor. Learn more here: https://www.foodandwine.com/cup-noodles-dill-pickle-flavor-11754031



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 newsletter: https://magnetic-ag.com/subscribe/.

Corn Markets, Dairy Digesters, and New Foods

What if one rancher’s vision could shape the future of the agriculture job market and create a movement of connecting leaders?

In this episode of The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, Nicole is joined by Jessie Jarvis, a third-generation rancher, entrepreneur, and the visionary behind Of The West. Raised on her family’s cattle ranch in Southern Idaho, Jessie shares how her entrepreneurship journey shaped her unique perspective on serving the industry, helping others build a career in agriculture, and the power of connection.

Jessie shares about:

 * Recognizing an Industry-wide Issue:  personal experiences opened her eyes to a successful business opportunity
 * Building a Successful Startup: spoke candidly about launching the platform, stressing the sacrifices and risks of entrepreneurship
 * Navigating the Evolving Ag Labor Market: addressed the challenges in agriculture’s current job market

Full of honest stories, bold insights, and deep passion, Jessie reminds listeners that the best leaders don’t just build businesses—they build communities.



Connect with Jessie

 * Connect on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessiethompsonjarvis/]
 * Follow Of The West on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/ofthewest/about/]
 * Visit the Of The West website - Here [https://ofthewest.co/]

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!

A Vision of Connecting Talent with Jessie Jarvis

This week on the podcast, we are covering everything from policy and pollinators to bees and biofuels. Braeden and Savannah are ready to chat about what is happening in the world of food and agriculture this week.

In the headlines this week:

- A Salmonella outbreak has pulled 1.7 million eggs off the shelves across nine states. Learn more here: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/us/egg-recall-expands-to-9-states-after-salmonella-outbreak-leaves-dozens-ill-officials-urge-caution-check-map/articleshow/121696646.cms?from=mdr

- Beekeepers across the country have lost between 70 to 100 percent of their hives- It’s one of the worst hive collapses in U.S. history. Learn more here: https://www.agrimarketing.com/s/153765

- Biofuel industry groups are cautiously optimistic about the EPA's new Renewable Fuel Standard proposal, which suggests increasing blending mandates. Learn more here: https://www.agweb.com/news/policy/biofuels-groups-optimistic-about-epas-rfs-proposal-refute-talk-lower-volumes

- California avocado producers credit Mexican avocado imports for a constant demand and increased market for their product. Learn more here: https://apnews.com/article/california-avocado-mexico-imports-hass-trees-wildfire-1489ff4288e78d02734dcbbe4defa51b

- John Deere is shutting down claims that they are closing down U.S. manufacturing, following a false article release. Learn more here: https://www.agweb.com/news/machinery/no-john-deere-not-freezing-production-or-stepping-away-its-u-s-factories

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/.

John Deere Myths, Egg Recall, and Avocado Markets

What if the reason you're struggling as a leader isn’t your fault?

Dr. Katie Ervin—author, founder, and creator of the Catalyst Workplace Model—joins The Cultivating Leaders Podcast for an honest conversation about what it really takes to lead without preparation, “being kind,” and bad managers. Through her career, Katie has learned the importance of vulnerability, feedback, and honesty.

Katie gets real about:

- Leaders are Often Set Up to Fail: People are often promoted into leadership roles without the proper tools, support, or training

- Culture is Changed Through People-centered Solutions: advocating for directly addressing interpersonal or cultural issues rather than making vague company-wide announcements

- Feedback and Accountability are Kind: don’t avoid the truth to spare feelings when the truth can lead to development

Katie offers grounded, practical advice on becoming a leader, not just a manager.



Connect with Katie

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

- Visit her website - Here [https://katieervin.com/]

- Check out here book - Here [https://katieervin.com/ymbaa/]



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!

You Might Be A Bad Manager

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