ZimmCast
Chuck Zimmerman
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Each week Chuck or Cindy interviews leaders in the agrimarketing world and talk with them about what they're doing that's new and different.
Available episodes
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Jan 4, 2021
ZimmCast 663 - AWIS Helping Farmers Grow for 25 Years
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast, a podcast started in 2004 to focus on agricultural marketing and what is new in the world of agribusiness. I’m Chuck Zimmerman saying Happy New Year to y’all.
Here at ZimmComm we’ve been living in the virtual world of communications for almost 17 years. We started out distributing news releases with pre-recorded sound bites and interviews before jumping into blogging and podcasting and then starting social media channels in YouTube, Flickr, Twitter, Facebook and so many more. We’ve seen many of these platforms come and go too.
It looks like we’ll continuing using these and other new apps like Zoom, Meetings and Skype as travel bans and the inability for large gathering to happen, continue into the foreseeable future.
But that’s where our virtual newsroom and virtual coverage of various events comes into play and we’ve already got quite a few on our calendar. Please give me a call or send an email if you would like to discuss how we can do this for you to enhance your communications efforts, especially reaching out to the media.
So, let’s move on in this first ZimmCast episode of 2021 with a conversation with AWIS Weather Services and one of the founders, Karl Harker. IDK about you but I definitely open my mobile weather apps more often than any other. But I’ve always been fascinated by the weather and when it comes to farming, getting reliable forecasting is critical in decision making. AWIS specializes in custom forecasting and consultation. Let’s learn about what they’re doing.
I want to thank AWIS for letting us help promote their services to the agribusiness sector.
That’s the ZimmCast for this week. Thank you for listening.
Dec 15, 2020
ZimmCast 662 - ASTA CSS & Seed Expo Recap
Interviews with Dan Basse, AgResource; John Latham, ASTA Chair; Pam Johnson, Iowa farmer, Andy LaVigne, ASTA CEO
Dec 4, 2020
ZimmCast 661 - Going Virtual with ARA in 2020
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast.
The Agricultural Retailers Association annual 2020 ARA Conference & Expo went virtual this year Dec. 1-2. Ag professionals from across the country went “All In For Ag Retail” with interactive workshops, engaging networking opportunities, and a 3D Expo Hall. During the event the ZimmComm Team collected relevant screenshots, conducted interviews with speakers, award winners and staff.
Providing us with a wrap-up of the conference is ARA Chairman, Rod Well, GROWMARK. He summarizes the activities and talks about future priorities for the organization.
So, that's the ZimmCast for this week. I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Nov 24, 2020
ZimmCast 660 - Virtual NAFB Convention
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast.
In this week's program Cindy and I share excerpts from interviews we recorded for the NAFB Trade Talk session. Some of these were before the convention or during the session. Included are now past-President, Rita Frazer, RFD Radio; Liz Hunt, Syngenta; Andy Lavigne, ASTA; Geoff Cooper, RFA and Norm Davy, Heliae.
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Nov 5, 2020
ZimmCast 659 - Communications and Research Innovations
Cindy talked with Frances Hayes, Communications Specialist for the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute at the University of Nebraska, about how they have adapted their communications strategy this year to reach a diverse group of stakeholders around the world in the middle of a pandemic.
We also have an interview about a company called C-Lock, which developed technology to help improve animal management, profits, and sustainability in their livestock systems and awarded Research Equipment Grants to find new ways to use their tools.
The founder of C-Lock is Dr. Patrick Zimmerman – so since we shared a surname I thought I would give him a call and find out
Oct 27, 2020
ZimmCast 658 - Agricultural Economic Impact on St. Louis Region
So, what’s this week’s episode about? It’s about agriculture’s economic impact on a very urban region, specifically St. Louis. The St. Louis Agribusiness Club just announced the results of their Agricultural Economic Impact Study on the St. Louis Region. This study has been conducted every five years since the first one was conducted in 2004. And guess what. ZimmComm produced that first study and you can still see those results on the organization’s website.
To talk about the study I’m going to share conversations with Matt Amick, Missouri Soybean Association and President of the St. Louis Agribusiness Club. Then you’ll hear Alan Spell, University of Missouri Extension, who actually researched and prepared this year’s study.
Oct 6, 2020
ZimmCast 657 - 2020 Hunting John Deere Style
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast.
This is an exciting time for deer hunters. The season is about to get started for those of us who hunt in Georgia. So, preparations are being made for a great opening day at the Crystal Pig Hunt Club.
My preparation includes getting to test drive a new John Deere Gator XUV855M S4. This crossover utility vehicle will take us out into the woods over some tough terrain and hopefully to include transporting some of our harvest. I'll be documenting our experience but thought I'd kick start things with an interview with Mark Davey, John Deere Marketing Manager.
There are many features on these new Gators that make them ideal for hunting. Some of those include easier shifting and instant engagement of 4-wheel drive, better power steering and a digital display panel to see important indicators. In this week's program Mark and I talk about the new Gator models and what the key updates are.
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Sep 22, 2020
ZimmCast 656 ASTA CSS and Seed Expo
Sep 8, 2020
ZimmCast 655 - Agri-Pulse Virtual September
Aug 28, 2020
ZimmCast 654 - Farm Owner & New Podcast
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast.
This week I had the opportunity to fly for the first time in over 5 1/2 months to put the Golden ZimmComm Microphone to work at a farm event. Thank you Farm Journal for having me help with your Farm Journal Field Days event which included on-farm activities as well as a significant virtual experience.
In this program I’m going to share an interview with the Iowa farm owner and field day host, Ben Riensche, Blue Diamond Farming Company.
After my conversation with Ben I’m going to include the newest podcast we’re producing with the first episode that just published. It is the Daugherty Water for Food Podcast.
In the first session, you’ll hear from award-winning chef, entrepreneur, and agriculture advocate, Louise Mabulo, as she discusses youth and sustainable solutions to food security.
Looking ahead I don’t know when I’ll need to get back on the agriblogging highway. That doesn’t mean the ZimmComm Team isn’t still working on various projects which include assisting companies and organizations with virtual events and content. Let us know if we can help you out too.
That’s the ZimmCast for this week. I hope you enjoyed it and thank you for listening.
Aug 17, 2020
ZimmCast 653 - Wrapping Up #NAMA20
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast, featuring weekly interviews with agribusiness industry leaders and all about what’s new, with a focus on agricultural marketing.
The #NAMA20 is a wrap and it was a great show. If you are registered you can still go back and watch presentations. You can also still visit the Connection Point and say hi to those of us with a booth. You can also visit our virtual newsroom on AgNewsWire to see some images from the conference and hear from NAMA Sustaining Sponsors.
In this week’s program we’re feature some more of the sustaining partners of the National Agri-Marketing Association. You’ll hear from David Lazarenko, Think Shift; Dustin Johansen, OBP and Marty Wolske, Meredith Agrimedia. They will talk about their organizations and why they support the work of NAMA.
So, that’s the ZimmCast for this week. I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Aug 10, 2020
ZimmCast 652 - NAMA Virtual Agri-Marketing Conference Week
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast, featuring weekly interviews with agribusiness industry leaders and all about what’s new, with a focus on agricultural marketing.
It is 2020 Virtual Agri-Marketing Conference week and this week's program will feature some more of the sustaining partners of the National Agri-Marketing Association. You'll hear from Scott McClure, Brighton; Matt Herman, DTN/The Progress Farmer and Tom Brand, NAFB. They will talk about their organizations and why they support the work of NAMA. I'll have a virtual newsroom available on AgNewsWire.com with all the interviews and more starting tomorrow morning.
Stop and see ZimmComm in the Connection Point in the virtual conference. We'd love to see you.
This week also includes some virtual work we're doing for the Renewable Fuels Association for their annual educational/promotional sponsorship at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and the Buffalo Chip Campground. Bikers will have Free Fuel Happy Hours once again. Keep an eye…
Jul 31, 2020
ZimmCast 651 - NCBA Virtual Newsroom and More
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast.
In this week's program you'll hear from Marvin Kokes, Senior VP of Corporate Relations, NCBA. We talk about this week's Cattle Industry Summer Business Meeting and the virtual ag newsroom we created on AgNewsWire.
From there I share a few more of my conversations with sustaining partners of the National Agri-Marketing Association. You'll hear from Curt Blades, Senior VP, Agricultural Services, Association of Equipment Manufacturers; Laurie Fleck, President/CEO, FLM/Harvest and Laurel Caes, Public Relations Manager, North America, John Deere. I'll have more to come in future episodes.
BTW. If you haven't registered for the Virtual Agri-Marketing Conference you can still do so at NAMA.org.
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Jul 23, 2020
ZimmCast 650 - NAMA & Virtual Agri-Marketing Conference
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast.
This week's program provides a preview of the Virtual Agri-Marketing Conference which will be held August 11-13. Conference Chair Rebecca Ivey, Case IH, gives us a preview of the program.
Following that I'm sharing conversations with several of the NAMA Sustaining Partners starting with Susan Rhode, Farm Journal, followed by Doug Reynolds, Corteva Agriscience and then Amy Bradford, GROWMARK. They talk about their companies, how they've dealt with the effects of the pandemic and why they support NAMA. I will be featuring more of these in future episodes of the ZimmCast.
So, that's the ZimmCast for this week. I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Jul 16, 2020
ZimmCast 649 - Looking Ahead to Ag Media Summit
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast.
In this week's episode I talk with Chris Clayton, Ag Policy Editor, DTN/The Progressive Farmer, who is the Steering Committee Chair for Ag Media Summit. The event was postponed to November 14-18 in Kansas City. The conference hotel is the Loews Kansas City Hotel which is brand new and looks fabulous.
Chris says the program is coming together and companies that would like to be a sponsor and have a booth in the InfoExpo trade show can find more details on that on the website. He's encouraging people to register. In fact, here's an excerpt from a column he just wrote about that.
"On Friday, though, I placed a bet for four months out. I registered for the Ag Media Summit, now slated for Nov. 14-18 in Kansas City. I'm making a bet that we're going to get this thing figured out, much like the businesses that have reopened, the colleges bringing in students, like my son, and the schools that are reopening, like the one my daughter attends and the one whe…
Jun 25, 2020
ZimmCast 648 - Conversation with Trent Loos
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast, featuring weekly interviews with agribusiness industry leaders and all about what's new, with a focus on agricultural marketing.
This week we’re going to hear from someone whose goal is to bridge rural and urban America. You probably have heard of him. Maybe you haven’t. But in this week's program I'm sharing a conversation with Trent Loos, Loos Tales, Rural Route and more.
We also ramble around on some other topics like Impossible Foods and virtual events. So, that's the ZimmCast for this week. I hope you enjoyed it and thank you for listening.
Jun 8, 2020
ZimmCast 647 - Celebrating AAEA at 100 Years
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast.
In this week's program I'm sharing a conversation with Gil Gullickson, Crops Technology Editor for Successful Farming magazine/Agriculture.com. We talk about the 100 year celebration of the AAEA, The Agricultural Communicators Network. We also talk about this year's Ag Media Summit which has been moved to November.
Let's all hope that we're closer to "normal" by that time. If not, I hope to help create virtual content for AAEA to help with our milestone celebration.
That's the ZimmCast for this week. I hope you enjoyed it and thank you for listening.
May 26, 2020
ZimmCast 646 - Alltech ONE Virtual Experience
This week's program provides a wrap-up of the Alltech ONE Virtual Experience. This virtual experience took place throughout the week with daily keynote speakers and focus sessions and more. All of this was available on-demand and still is. In fact, you can still register and new content will be made available each month until the 2021 event.
In the program I talk with Dr. Mark Lyons, Alltech President/CEO, who provides a summary of how the event unfolded and some key takeaways. I also share my interview with event keynoter, Dr. Frank Mitloehner, UC-Davis, who spoke on Clearing the Air: Debunking the Myths of Agriculture.
The Alltech ONE Virtual Experience provides a template for how engaging and entertaining a virtual conference can be. Please feel free to check it out.
May 14, 2020
ZimmCast 645 - AgCareers in a COVID-19 World
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast.
This week I’m sharing a conversation with Erika Osmundson, Director of Marketing and Communications, AgCareers.com. Erika and I talk about how the pandemic situation has affected job seekers and ag companies looking for employees. I really appreciate her time and outlook for people who would like to work in the ag industry and the companies looking for people right now.
Here’s to a near term future when things do get back to normal!
That’s the ZimmCast for this week. I hope you’ve enjoyed it and thank you for listening.
May 7, 2020
ZimmCast 644 - COVID-19 Impact on Ag Communications Groups
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast.
This week’s program is part two of a series featuring conversations with the leadership of agricultural media and marketing associations. This week I’m sharing conversations with Samantha Kilgore, AAEA, The Agricultural Communicators Network, Lindsay Graber Runft, Livestock Publications Council and Kristy Mach/John Blue, Agricultural Relations Council.
Each of these organizations has had to cancel or postpone important annual events and the staff has had to deal with that as well as looking at alternative communications methods and what plans look like going forward. Learn how they've handles things and hear some good ideas and suggestions as well.
How has your company or organization has been affected and what are you learning during this trying time? Let me know.
Apr 30, 2020
ZimmCast 643 - COVID-19 Impacts on Ag Communications
This week's program is part one of at least two that feature conversations with the leadership of agricultural media and marketing associations. This week I'm sharing conversations with the National Agri-Marketing Association and Jenny Pickett, the National Association of Farm Broadcasting and Tom Brand and the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists/Canadian Farm Writers with Hugh Maynard.
Each of these organizations has had to cancel or postpone important annual events and the staff has had to deal with that as well as looking at alternative communications methods and what plans look like going forward.
Feel free to let me know how your company or organization has been affected and what you're learning during this trying time.
That's the ZimmCast for this week. I hope you enjoy it and thanks for listening.
Apr 23, 2020
ZimmCast 642 - Conversation with Calyxt
In this week's program we're going to learn about Calyxt, a plant science company, doing some very interesting work with new technology. I spoke with Calyxt CEO, Jim Blome, about the work they are doing. He focuses on the future of food and how the types of technology being developed at the company is creating new products to give farmers more options to meet today's consumer demands.
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Apr 17, 2020
ZimmCast 641 - CommoditAg App & COVID-19 Messages
In this week's program I'm featuring a conversation with John Demerly, CEO, CommoditAg, about the new app they launched during Commodity Classic. That was the last on location meeting either of us attended and it seems like a lot longer ago than it really is!
John says the app provides the opportunity for agricultural producers and farmers to research and order products anytime, anywhere with their mobile devices. He says they have a growing line-up of products available and just announced a "free shipping" program for the first time for customers.
To download the app, go to the Apple App Store for iOS devices and the Google Play Store for Android devices. To learn more about CommoditAg, visit commoditag.com.
Mar 27, 2020
ZimmCast 640 -A Conversation with Cainthus & A New Podcast
In this week's program I'm sharing a conversation with Aidan Connelly, CEO, Cainthus. It has been quite some time since we've had this opportunity. We set a convenient time for each of us since he was in Ireland and I am here in the U.S.
During my conversation with Aidan we talk about the work Cainthus does and he provides his thoughts on the current COVID-19 problem. We also talk about the value of podcasts, especially in light of the difficulty for travel right now.
I'm also going to share the first episode of a new podcast series we're producing - Field Notes from Koch Agronomic Services. It debuted Wednesday and will be produced monthly moving ahead. The topic of the first show is Understanding Nitrogen and includes experts, Tim Laatsch, technical agronomy manager, and Michael Berry, director of brand expansion.
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Mar 17, 2020
ZimmCast 639 - BigIron Realty
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast.
In this crazy pandemic panicked world I think we need a dose of normalcy. Don't you? Well, listening to a good podcast fits the bill IMO.
First though, I just want to say that ZimmComm is committed to be ready, willing and able to find creative solutions for your agricultural marketing and communications needs.
It’s a challenging time to make marketing decisions due to the uncertainties with the global virus situation. Cindy and I are working with clients on "virtual" content projects like podcasts, releases and more. These are channels that don’t require travel! And these are services and skills we’ve honed since starting this company 16 years ago and an additional over 20 years of experience working in agricultural communications, mostly farm radio.
We know how tight budgets are, so these services are priced to work within yours. I’m available at your convenience to discuss how we can help you maximize your marketing dollars. Feel free t…
Mar 2, 2020
ZimmCast 638 - Commodity Classic Roundtable with Farm Credit
This week's program features a roundtable discussion I had during Commodity Classic in San Antonio, TX. I sat down with the CEO's of several Farm Credit associations: Aaron Johnson, Farm Credit Illinois, Bill Johnson, Farm Credit Mid America and Mark Jensen, Farm Credit Services of America (FCSAmerica) and Frontier Farm Credit.
Our topic was Volatility and how it is reshaping risk and financial management. We talked about how farmers are doing now in light of the volatility of the last year which includes weather extremes, disease and political uncertainty.
You'll hear these leaders talk about the short-term outlook and then looking ahead long-term with ideas about critical strategies for the future and what services Farm Credit can offer.
That's the ZimmCast for this week. I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Feb 20, 2020
ZimmCast 637 - Reflections on the National Ethanol Conference & A Visit with Hauk Designs
In this week's program I'm sharing an interview Cindy did with RFA Senior Advisor, Bob Dinneen, who reflects on the 25 years of the National Ethanol Conference. I'm also sharing an interview I did at the conference with Kenny Hauk, Hauk Designs. Kenny built a custom Jeep Wrangler that runs on E85. It is a monster machine and will be touring the country with RFA. You can watch Kenny's show, Hauk Machines, on Amazon Prime to see the project in 2019 episodes.
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Feb 13, 2020
ZimmCast 636 - Influencing and Greeley Hat Works
In this week's program I talk about the whole concept of being an industry influencer on social media before sharing an interview with Trent Johnson, Owner, Greeley Hat Works. I met Trent in the NCBA Trade Show and learned a lot about hats.
There is a difference between western and cowboy hats and Trent explains why. He talks about the value of custom fitting a hat and how to take care of them. He also shares some stories of his experiences over the years making hats for movies and even for the military. He even took my measurements for a hat that might just work for this agriblogging photographer that has a big old flash on top of his camera!
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Jan 30, 2020
ZimmCast 635 - Biodiesel Blogging and Virtual Newsrooms
In this week's program you'll hear Cindy share news and information from the National Biodiesel Conference and some of the interviews and audio we produced which was used on the Biodiesel Conference Blog.
Then I provide some examples of how well content we produce for virtual newsrooms performs on our AgNewsWire website. This would include audio downloads, ad impressions, social media engagement and impressions and of course, our photos.
Please contact me if you would like to learn more or receive a custom quote for how we can work with your company or organization to create meaningful content to amplify your communications & marketing efforts.
Jan 19, 2020
ZimmCast 634 - Questions About Growing Hemp
This week's program includes several interviews I did at the inaugural Heart of American Agricultural Hemp Classic in Independence, MO. The event was organized by the Missouri Hemp Association.
Farmers have a lot of questions about hemp and in the interviews you will hear from presenters and farmers who have some answers. You can find a lot more in our virtual ag newsroom on AgNewsWire too.
So, in this episode you'll hear from: Joe Zahner, Counsel, Missouri Hemp Association; James Bennett, Yeoman; Luke Poindexter, MoCan Extracts and Bill Cook, Executive Director, Missouri Hemp Association.
At the end of the program I take a look ahead at the National Biodiesel Conference taking place this week in Tampa, FL. Cindy and will be there for the 15th year producing content for the Biodiesel Conference Blog!
Jan 5, 2020
ZimmCast 633 - Looking Back at 2019
Hello and welcome to the ZimmCast. In this week's program my poor laryngitis recovering voice takes a look back at 2019 with a list of the top posts on AgWired and some statistics about photos, audio and video.
I also share an excerpt of an interview that was produced in October of 2019 and had the highest number of downloads. It was an interview I did with Geoff Cooper, Renewable Fuels Association. Next I shared an end of the year interview Cindy did at the last event we attended, the 2019 ASTA CSS and Seed Trade Expo. Cindy interviewed ASTA President/CEO, Andy Lavigne, about the event.
If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor of the ZimmCast, want to suggest a topic, need help producing a podcast, then please let me know. I’m AgriBlogger on Twitter or just email chuck@zimmcomm.biz.
That’s the ZimmCast for this week. I hope you’ve enjoyed it and thank you for listening.
Dec 9, 2019
ZimmCast 632 - Ag Retailers Wrap-up
In this week's program I spoke with the leadership of the Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA).
In the program you'll hear from past Chair, Troy Johnson, Wilbur-Ellis, as he talks about his term leading the board. Then next up will be Rod Wells, GROWMARK, new Chair for ARA, as he talks about his outlook and plans for the coming two years. Then finally, I talked with Daren Coppock, ARA CEO, about how this year's conference went.
You can find a lot more interviews, audio and photos from the conference in our AgNewsWire virtual ag newsroom.
Dec 2, 2019
ZimmCast 631 - Hemp in the Heartland
In this week's program you can hear Cindy talk with Wayne Gale, Stokes Seeds and Chairman of the American Seed Trade Association. I then talk with Bill Cook, Executive Director of the Missouri Hemp Association about their inaugural Heart of America Agricultural Hemp Classic.
Wayne talks about hemp because it is a topic many members of ASTA have been asking about. Cindy and I will be attending the annual ASTA CSS & Seed Expo in Chicago this month.
Then I will be attending the Heart of America Agricultural Hemp Classic in January.
There is a lot of information being published suggesting that growing hemp will provide new revenue streams for farmers but at the same time I've seen stories saying we have a glut of hemp on the market and farmers need to be very careful of their decisions. So what is right? I don't know yet. This new crop, which is an old crop, has a lot of potential and the rules, regulations and infrastructure to support it is in the start up phase.
Learn some more abou…
Nov 21, 2019
ZimmCast 630 - Past & Present NAFB Presidents
In this week's program I talk with Rita Frazer, RFD Radio Network, now President of the National Association of Farm Broadcasting and Lorrie Boyer, KSIR, now past-President of NAFB.
Both farm broadcasters talk about the convention that just took place in KC, MO but also talk about their year as president, past and future.
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Nov 8, 2019
ZimmCast 629 - Hemp Farming in Florida
This week I attended the inaugural Florida Industrial Hemp Conference & Expo in Orlando. Hemp has become a hot topic in agriculture today since so many states have created legislation allowing it to be grown and more are in the process. That includes my home state of Florida.
I asked all the people I spoke with or interviewed during the Conference how USDA’s announced interim final rule on the Domestic Hemp Production Program would affect the budding industry and their company or organization. It appears that Florida and USDA are taking big steps to create some certainty frameworks for farmers to grow a product that can be made into thousands and thousands of products.
Includes in the program are: Florida Department of Agricultural and Consumer Services, Director of Cannabis, Holly Bell; Florida Agricultural Experiment Station, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Jerry Frankhauser; Geoff Whaling, Chairman of the National Hemp Association and Coordinat…
Oct 28, 2019
ZimmCast 628 - Conversation with Demeter Communications
In this week's program I have a conversation with Sharlet Teigen, CEO, Demeter Communications. Sharlet talks about the start of the company and the challenges she and the team had to overcome. For her it began with a major move from Chicago to rural Montana.
Cindy and I have known Sharlet for many years so we also do some reminiscing about how we did agricultural marketing and communications work "way back when."
Sharlet asks me questions during the conversation, one of which includes the origin of the name Demeter. I won't spoil it if you don't know it but it's toward the end of the program.
I hope you enjoy this episode of the ZimmCast and thank you for listening.
BTW. Feel free to contact me if you have ideas or suggestions for a future program. I'm always open to what would be of interest.
Oct 15, 2019
ZimmCast 627 - Commercial UAV Expo
In this week's program you will hear Jeremiah Karpowicz, Executive Editor of Commercial UAV News, talk about this year's Commercial UAV Expo Americas. This trade show and conference focuses on commercial drone integration and operation in a variety of industries, including agriculture.
Here's some more information about the conference.
In the Conference Program, UAV industry experts share key insights into the issues asset owners face when implementing unmanned aerial systems, including systems selection and integration; developing enterprise workflows, guidelines and policies; data management and integration; and legal, safety and regulatory considerations. Plenary sessions and panels cover topics of interest to all end-users regardless of industry, while breakout sessions focus on UAV technology, applications and opportunities in the vertical markets listed above.
The international Exhibition includes drone airframe manufacturers, component and sensor manufacturers, software devel…
Sep 24, 2019
ZimmCast 626 - New Executive Director for LPC
In this week's program let's meet Lindsay Graber Runft, Executive Director, Livestock Publications Council, pictured on the right with the LPC Board at the 2019 Ag Media Summit. Lindsay started with LPC in July this year and I met her at the AMS.
Lindsay has a solid background in livestock production and association management. As an example, she served as director of marketing and communications of the Livestock Marketing Association (LMA) from 2013 to 2018. She has been principal of Prairie Public Relations since 2018.
“I am incredibly excited, and honored, to accept the role of Executive Director for Livestock Publications Council,” Runft said. “It will be a privilege to further LPC’s purpose of serving the livestock communications industry through collaborative work with Board leadership and membership service.”
You can learn more about Lindsay in the program. I'm looking forward to working with her in the future as she takes over the helm from retired long time friend…
Sep 10, 2019
ZimmCast 625 - NAMA Fall Conference Preview
In this week's program we'll get a preview of the 2019 National Agri-Marketing Association Fall Conference. Conference committee chair, Brittany Phillips, Brighton Agency, talks us through the program and activities.
Registration is available on the NAMA website with the early registration deadline of September 16. The hotel is the Ritz Carlton in St. Louis.
The program starts on Monday with a tour organized by the Gateway NAMA Chapter, which I am a past-president of. I'm sure they'll do an awesome job. After a welcome reception that night the sessions get underway on Tuesday and the program ends mid day Wednesday.
I hope to see you there. Thank you for listening.
Aug 31, 2019
ZimmCast 624 - #FPS19
In this edition of the ZimmCast, you will hear from some of the many voices at #FPS19, including Show Manager Matt Jungmann, BASF External Communications Manager Casey Allen, Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, President Donald J. Trump, National Corn Growers Association 1st VP Kevin Ross, and National Hemp Association executive director Erica Stark.
Aug 2, 2019
ZimmCast 623 - 2019 IFAJ Congress/Ag Media Summit Interviews
In this week's program you will hear from the new president of the AAEA The AgComm Network, Gil Gullickson; the new president of the Livestock Publications Council, Jennifer Carrico; the new conference manger for the Ag Media Summit, Tina Bowling and the presenters of the session, "So You Have a Podcast, Now What," Sara Steever, president of Paulsen Marketing and Kelsey Litchfield, digital media consultant.
Jul 24, 2019
ZimmCast 622 - The Future for InfoAg Conference
In this week's program I speak with Quentin Rund, PAQ Interactive and Lara Moody, The Fertilizer Institute (TFI).
Quentin has been involved with organizing and running the InfoAg Conference since it started in 1995. He talks about this year's conference which is doing very well on attendance in spite of the challenging planting season the midwest has had.
Lara talks about how TFI has acquired the InfoAg Conference and what the organization is doing to expand and grow it. During this conference she says they've been conducting some focus groups to learn what they would like to see happen. A lot of the work that TFI does, like their 4R Nutrient program, fits right in with the technology represented at the InfoAg Conference.
You can learn more in the program. I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Jul 18, 2019
ZimmCast 621 - Preview of Ag Media Summit/IFAJ Congress
This program will be a preview of the 2019 Ag Media Summit and International Federation of Agricultural Journalists Congress. The two programs are being held together like they were in 2009. The IFAJ Congress moves to a different country each year.
To help me preview the events I spoke with Carey Brown, Kentucky Cattlemen's Association and co-chair of the coordinating committee for the events.
Jul 3, 2019
ZimmCast 620 - Timber Creek Distillery
For this week's program I visited Timber Creek Distillery near Crestview, FL. The owners are Camden Ford and Aaron Barnes, two exceptional entrepreneurs who are building a new distillery on some beautiful property. I had the opportunity to meet them when they did some taste testing in Pensacola and found their story to be fascinating.
The new distillery building, which is near completion, is a massive 13,000 square feet with 40 foot high ceilings and includes outdoor seating areas. They have built their own power supply using solar panels, propane, batteries and backup generators. All of this has been done by just these two guys. To see it you would assume a construction crew had been busy for months. It's really amazing how much they have done with their own skills and ingenuity.
They have been producing products like Florida whiskies, rum, vodka and gin for over three years and source as much of their ingredients like corn, rye, wheat and more from local sources including farmers.…
Jun 13, 2019
ZimmCast 619 - President Trump Visits Ethanol Plant
In this week's program you will hear from industry attendees to President Trump's visit to Southwest Iowa Renewable Energy (SIRE) in Council Bluffs, IA.
Included in the program are:
Mike Jerke, CEO, SIRE
Craig Floss, President/CEO, Iowa Corn Growers
Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture
Kevin Ross, farmer and 1st VP, NCGA
Monte Shaw, Executive Director, IRFA
Geoff Cooper, President/CEO, RFA
Geoff provides a wrap-up of the program since I was able to talk with him after the President had toured the facility and given his speech.
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Jun 5, 2019
ZimmCast 618 - Do Business Better with Damian Mason
This week we're going to learn all about a new book from Damian Mason titled "Do Business Better." Here's an excerpt from the book description to get us started.
After speaking to companies such as Merck, Land O'Lakes, and Cargill, and 2,000 audiences across the world, Damian Mason, successful businessman, agriculturalist, podcaster, and writer, wants to help you achieve your entrepreneurial goals and live a better life. While other business books claim to tell you how to reach success, they fall short because they don't address the fact that success is different for each of us. Do Business Better helps you define success on your terms, then shows you how to achieve it.
Damian and I not only talk about his new book but some other subjects like how farmers are doing on social media his thoughts on the current farm economy.
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
May 31, 2019
ZimmCast 617 - Farmer Veteran Coalition
This week we're going to learn about the Farmer Veteran Coalition with founder/director, Michael O'Gorman. The Mission of Farmer Veteran Coalition is Mobilizing Veterans to Feed America
We cultivate a new generation of farmers and food leaders, and develop viable employment and meaningful careers through the collaboration of the farming and military communities. We believe that veterans possess the unique skills and character needed to strengthen rural communities and create sustainable food systems. We believe that agriculture offers purpose, opportunity, and physical and psychological benefits.
Michael talks about what motivated him to start the organization and how it has developed. He has examples of individuals who have developed successful farming operations with support from the Coalition. Many farm organizations and agribusinesses are providing assistance and there is room for more.
I think you'll find Michael very well-spoken and you might want to consider him for your nex…
May 23, 2019
ZimmCast 616 - Voices from Alltech #ONE19
I'm going to share a few interviews from the conference that I hope you'll enjoy. First up will be Amanda Radke, BEEF daily blogger, BEEF Magazine. Amanda was an early intern for us who wrote for AgWired when she was in her final year at South Dakota State University. I'm proud of the career she is having and to have been a part of it in our little way.
Next up you'll hear Dr. Frank Mitloehner, Professor and Air Quality Extension Specialist, Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis. He spoke about "Beef's Carbon Footprint: Setting the Record Straight." And he certainly does that. I hope you'll follow him on Twitter. We need more like him.
Then you can hear my Farm Babe 2.0 interview. I spoke with Michele Miller last year at the conference and we did it again this year at the end of the conference. If you're not following The Farm Babe then get started.
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
May 6, 2019
ZimmCast 615 - Water for Food
This week's program features interviews from the 2019 Water for Food Global Conference. Here is the list of who you will hear:
Overview interview of the conference with Peter McCornick, Executive Director, Water for Food Institute
Interview with Mark Edge, Director of Collaborations for Developing Countries, Bayer
Interview with the Irrigation Association: Deborah Hamlin, CEO, Irrigation Association; Brent Mecham, Industry Development Director, Irrigation Association; Aric Olson, President, Jain Irrigation
Interview with Conference attendee Grace Mukarusagara, Rwanda
Interview with Conference attendee Elisa Zancanaro Zanella, Brazil
Apr 18, 2019
ZimmCast 614 - Golden Mic Interviews from #NAMA19
This week's program features interviews that Cindy and I did during the 2019 Agri-Marketing Conference in Kansas City. The Golden ZimmComm Microphone got a workout!
At the beginning of this episode you can hear from Sheri Seger, DTN/The Progressive Farmer, outgoing NAMA President and Scott McClure, Brighton, incoming NAMA President. After that I'm sharing the other interviews we did in our Connection Point booth.
We offered free Golden Mic Interviews to whoever stopped by and had quite a few take us up on the offer. You may know some of them and if not, you'll get to meet them now.
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Apr 1, 2019
ZimmCast 613 - Agri-Marketing Conference Preview
In this week's program I visit with Susan Hunyor, DTN/The Progressive Farmer, who is the Chair of the Agri-Marketing Conference Committee. This is the annual conference of the National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA). Susan walks us through a preview of the program for this year's conference.
ZimmComm is celebrating 15 years and will be having fun in the Connection Point, Booth 312. The Golden ZimmComm Microphones will be set up to conduct interviews with attendees. It's an opportunity to tell us about your company or organization and we'll publish them into the virtual ag newsroom for the conference on AgNewsWire.com.
When you visit us you can enter to win a flex Portable, Universal Keyboard & Detachable Stand. We have donated a special Beats Pill+ to the NAMA Foundation Silent Auction too. The winning bidder will be able to select colors for the bluetooth speaker and we'll order it to be delivered direct to them.
It's going to be a great conference and we hope to see you there.…
Mar 27, 2019
ZimmCast 612 - Agri-Pulse 15th Anniversary
Mar 19, 2019
ZimmCast 611 - National Ag Day
This week's program focuses on National Ag Day activities in our nation's Capitol.
In the program you'll hear from Senator Pat Roberts who made remarks during the Celebration of American Agriculture reception. I also interviewed Isabella Chism, American Farm Bureau Federation, who is the Chair for National Ag Day.
Next up is USDA Deputy Secretary, Steve Censky, who spoke prior to moderating a panel discussion, "Observations from the Next Generation of America's Agriculturists." After his remarks you can listen to National Ag Day Essay Contest winner Grace Brose, South Dakota.
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Mar 5, 2019
ZimmCast 610 - Bayer AgVocacy Forum
This week's program includes where in the world the ZimmComm Team has been as well as a couple of interviews.
We've been to Destin, FL for BASF Legacy Club events, then on to Orlando for the Commodity Classic and associated activities. At the same time Cindy was in Memphis for the Mid-South Farm & Gin Show.
In this week's program I'm sharing interview with Darren Wallis, Vice President, North America Communications at Bayer CropScience and Willie Vogt, Executive Director, Content and User Engagement, Penton Farm Progress Group. They talk about the Bayer AgVocacy Forum that took place prior to Commodity Classic.
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Feb 22, 2019
ZimmCast 609 - Media Rooms and National Farm Machinery Show
In this week's program I talk about the crazy agriblogging highway schedule and the value of media rooms at conferences and conventions.
In addition to the above I am sharing some audio from the 2019 National Farm Machinery Show which includes Kentucky's Commissioner of Agriculture Ryan Quarles. Next up is FMC's Rick Ekins, Application and Innovations Platform Lead. He talks about "Investing in the Furrow." After that you can hear the presentation audio from the Case IH AFS Connect Magnum Series Tractor launch.
Feb 7, 2019
ZimmCast 608 - Cattle Industry Convention
This week's program contains some audio from last week's Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Trade Show.
After looking at what's coming up on our calendar I share a couple of excerpts from the press conference with Secretary of Ag Sonny Perdue and then from Terry Bradshaw's speech. Sonny talks trade and Terry talks cows. I had no idea he had cattle and horses.
After that you can listen to my wrap up interview with Kendall Frazier, CEO, NCBA. Kendall reviews the process NCBA goes through during the year for the business of the organization and talks about priorities for the coming year as well as how this year's convention wound up.
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Jan 29, 2019
ZimmCast 607 - Developing with Deere
In this week's program things get started with more analytics from ZimmComm media content. This time it's photos and videos. Think Flickr and YouTube.
But then we go back to last week and I share some interviews from the Develop with Deere Conference. First up is Kayla Reynolds, Digital Business Development Manager, John Deere Intelligent Solutions Group.
Following Kayla is Brandon West, Evangelism Leader, Americas, AWS, who gave a keynote speech during the conference.
The last interview is with Ryan Heiniger, Pheasants Forever, who talks about working with John Deere.
Jan 21, 2019
ZimmCast 606 - Some ZimmComm Analytics
Besides some of the reach numbers from the AgWired channels and downloads of ZimmComm audio this week's program features Dr. Fred Moore, BASF, from their 2019 APT Summit and then Kevin Skunes, NCBA, talking about the 2019 Soil Health Summit.
Dec 18, 2018
ZimmCast 605 - ASTA CSS and Seed Expo
Dec 3, 2018
ZimmCast 604 - Interviews from ARA Conference & Expo
Once again ZimmComm worked with ARA to produce a virtual ag newsroom via our AgNewsWire service and you can find it on AgNewsWire.com.
So, in this week’s program I want to share a couple of interviews I hope you’ll enjoy. The first one is with Melisa Augusto, ARA’s Director of Communications and Marketing.
One of the key sponsors of the ARA conference and expo is FMC. The company sponsored the charging station for all our mobile devices with a place to sit down and relax. I met several FMC representatives which included Christina Coen, FMC’s North America Marketing Director. We talked about what she is doing and a major marketing project she oversees.
Nov 13, 2018
ZimmCast 603 - NAFB Leadership
This week’s program is dedicated to discussions with the leadership of the National Association of Farm Broadcasting. NAFB just held its 75th annual convention in Kansas City. Cindy and I attended and obtained some great content which you’ll find in our virtual ag newsroom on AgNewsWire.com as well as story posts on AgWired.
First up in the program is the just past-president of NAFB, Tom Cassidy, Ag Radio Network.
The next person I talked with about NAFB is Tom Brand, NAFB Executive Director. Tom worked with me once upon a time a long time ago in Jefferson City, Missouri with the Brownfield Network.
The new NAFB President-Elect is Rita Frazier, RFD Radio Network. One of her jobs this next year is working with the staff to coordinate the 2019 convention. She is very open to ideas and suggestions.
Finally in this week’s program let me introduce you to the new NAFB President, Lorrie Boyer, KSIR and Northeast Colorado Broadcasting.
So there you have it. An NAFB ZimmCast with old…
Nov 2, 2018
ZimmCast 602 - A Farm Broadcasting Icon, Ethanol Co-Product and Mycotoxin Myths
In this week's program I share a conversation with farm broadcasting legend Everett Griner who just announced his retirement after 70 years in the broadcast business! Ev was also a mentor for me and Gary Cooper when I worked with him many years ago. Ev continued working for Gary and Southeast AgNet until this week.
Next in the program I have an interview with Kelly Davis, Renewable Fuels Association, about their co-partnership with the Export Exchange conference that brings together international grain buyers with U.S. grain trade representatives. In RFA's case, they value the promotion of an ethanol production co-product called DDGs.
Finally, I have an interview conducted by Jamie Johansen, Honey Creek Media, with Pat Crowley, Alltech who talks about mycotoxin myths.
Oct 23, 2018
ZimmCast 601 - FMC in the Field
In this week's program you'll get to hear from these FMC representatives who did presentations in the field for agricultural retailers.
Ryan Osborn, Southeast Region Business Manager, FMC
David Wheeler, Technical Service Manager, FMC
Matthew Wiggins, Technical Services Manager, FMC
Craig Heim, Senior Technical Service Manager, FMC
Jake Franklin, FMC Research Station Manger
Del Brandenberg Retail Marketing Manager, FMC
FMC has acquired a number of products to round out their portfolio of tools for customers, including some that will be available in the near future.
Oct 15, 2018
ZimmCast 600 - John Deere at World Dairy Expo
In this week’s program we’ll hear several John Deere representatives talk about the company’s newest forage harvester, the self-propelled 9,000 Series. I spoke to these folks on the morning the product was launched at World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin.
Each of the guys I talked with provide a different perspective which I thought would be interesting.
First up is: John Thomassen, Global Director – Hay & Forage Harvest.
Next I spoke with: Dan Paschke, Director of Marketing – Hay & Forage.
Next in the program is:Jarrod McGinnis, Dairy & Livestock Production System Manager.
Finally in this week’s program I visit with: Matt Hatcher, Territory Sales Manager.
You can find more about the new John Deere 9000 Series Self-Propelled Forage Harvesters on AgWired.com. Just click on the John Deere category and you’ll see some other interviews I’ve already published from the product launch.
Oct 5, 2018
World Dairy Expo Interview with John Holevoet, Edge Dairy Cooperative
Oct 5, 2018
World Dairy Expo Interview with John Pretz, Hubbard
Oct 5, 2018
ZimmCast 599 - BASF Cotton and Soybean Business
BASF is in high cotton since the acquisition of Stoneville and Fiber Max as a result of the Bayer-Monsanto deal, as well as soybean varieties such as Credenz and Liberty Link. This is a new field for BASF but along with the brands came many specialists from Bayer who know the products well.
Over the past month, Chuck has been to several field days and events spotlighting the BASF cotton and soybean brands so we are featuring some of the interviews he has done in this ZimmCast.
The person who has been in charge of these events is Rachel Walters, Cottonseed Marketing Manager for BASF.
The first field day he attended was in Louisiana, where he talked with Jerry Ford, regional seed lead for the South Delta region.
At that same field day, regional agronomist Kyle Fontenot (fon-ten-no) talked about some of the hot cotton and soybean varieties BASF is excited about.
The annual Celebrate Cotton Texas Tech football game, which has been an annual event for years to spotlight FiberMax and St…
Sep 20, 2018
ZimmCast 598 - NAMA Fall Conference
This week's program features interviews with Melanie Rice, Brownfield Ag News, who is the Chair of the NAMA Fall Conference committee; Jerry Gennaria, Brighton Agency, recipient of the PDA for Excellence in Marketing Communications; John Robinson, NCBA, recipient of the PDA for Excellence in Public Relations and Laurie Fleck, newly appointed President/CEO of FLM Harvest.
Sep 14, 2018
Interview with ASTA CEO Andy LaVigne on treated seed harvest reminders
Sep 12, 2018
ZimmCast 597 - Next Generation on the Farm
A Bayer Grower Panel during the Farm Progress Show focused on “Preparing for the next generation of ag – on and off the farm.”
I interviewed the panelists which included Bob Arndt, Wisconsin farmer, Jill Bramble, Senior Vp & Chief Resource Development Officer, National 4-H Council, Greg Nickrent, Senior Relationship Manager with BMO Harris, Serena Woodard, 4-H and Jeff Waller, Wisconsin farmer.
Sep 6, 2018
ZimmCast 596 - GROWMARK Annual Meeting
This week the ZimmCast, sponsored by GROWMARK, will feature interviews from the GROWMARK Annual Meeting.
Carrie Muehling interviewed GROWMARK CEO Jim Spradlin about the company’s new strategy, based on the acronym ‘GROW’ which is not just focused on getting bigger. It’s focused on getting better.
She also interviewed Illinois farmer Rick Nelson who has served on the GROWMARK board for 28 years and is retiring from it.
Ann Kafer, vice president of human resources and strategy officer talked with Carrie about the GROW acronym which stands for Good Relationships, Resources of Unmatched Value, Optimized Supply Chain, and Winning Innovations.
Finally, you'll hear from Chuck Spencer, GROWMARK director of corporate and government relations on watching farm policy and regulations.
Aug 23, 2018
ZimmCast 595 - Soil Health Partnership & Can-Am
Dr. Shefali Mehta has been tapped as the new executive director of the Soil Health Partnership, a long-term data project that measures and quantifies the impact of farm management practices known to promote healthy soils. Let's meet her in this episode.
Can-Am is introducing a new Defender Series Mossy Oak Hunting Edition HD10 model with improved features that includes an optional roof rack.
Aug 13, 2018
ZimmCast 594 - Ag Media Summit 2018 recap
The 20th annual Ag Media Summit was held Aug 5-8, 2018 in Scottsdale, AZ. This year the Association for Communication Excellence (ACE) in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Life and Human Sciences joined the American Agricultural Editors’ Association, Livestock Publications Council and the Connectiv Agri-Media Committee.
In this ZimmCast, we hear from outgoing AAEA president Julie Deering, FMC product development manager Brent Jacobson, Cyndee Smiley with John Deere, AMVAC director of portfolio management and marketing communications Neil DeStefano, and Tracy Mack, GROWMARK Director of Supply Chain Optimization and Logistics
Aug 2, 2018
ZimmCast 593 - Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and Ag Media Summit
This week's program previews two events coming up starting this weekend. Cindy will be attending the Ag Media Summit while I am working at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in the Buffalo Chip Campground.
To start things off I visit with Robert White, Renewable Fuels Association, who talks about what to expect at what has become an annual educational program of activities in Sturgis, South Dakota.
Then I talk with Suzanne Steele, Assistant Director, Communications, The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences. Suzanne is currently the president of the Association of Communication Excellence. She will talk about ACE and their first time participation in the Ag Media Summit.
Jul 19, 2018
ZimmCast 592 - Tim the Dairy Farmer
Blue Collar meets Green Acres. That's how Comedian, Tim the Dairy Farmer, describes the release of his first album through a production company owned by famed comics Larry "The Cable Guy” and Jeff Foxworthy.
The 50-minute album is called 'Farm Raised' and will be released by Git-R-Done Records on July 20th. 'Farm Raised' will be available throughiTunes, Google Play, Amazon, Spotify, and Pandora. To purchase an actual hard copy CD of the album 'Farm Raised' visit www.timthedairyfarmer.com.
I talked with Tim who says the album naturally focuses a lot on farm life and his experiences as a dairy farmer. “There’s a lot of humor on the farm,” Tim said. “If you’ve ever been on a farm or even just driven by a farm, you’re gonna get it.”
Tim, who is a third-generation farmer and maintains an ownership stake in a Florida dairy, has been performing standup comedy for over 16 years, including for numerous agriculture organizations and companies.
I hope you enjoy it and thank…
Jul 12, 2018
ZimmCast 591 - From the Tailgate
I'm pretty sure that most of you have been involved with an activity centered around a tailgate. That's part of why a new tv show is named, From the Tailgate.
In this week's program you're going to learn all about it. The show is hosted by Jamie Johansen, Honey Creek Media. You know her. Our Jamie. Well, Jamie started her own company during the time she was doing work for us and with her sister, Joanna, they have acquired a growing number of projects, including this one. Cindy and I can't tell you how proud we are of them and the work they do. We're still keeping the door open to collaborate on projects when we can.
So, let's learn about Jamie's show. The program starting airing a week ago on KOLZ, Ch. 27 Springfield, MO, Nexstar Media Group.
In this week's program we talk about how the show came about, what kinds of topics Jamie is covering and some of her philosophy about the need for this kind of programming. Jamie is putting her farming background to good use in her agricultural…
Jul 5, 2018
ZimmCast 590 - Precision, Pork & Podcasts
Happy Independence Day week. This episode of the ZimmCast will introduce you to some other farm podcasters you may not be familiar with. If you are not subscribing to podcasts then get started. There are many really good programs and quite a few that have started recently.
In the program you'll hear The Raven Precision Podcast, the latest information on Raven precision technology; Pork Pod, look at the hot topics in the pork industry; The Business of Agriculture Podcast, listen to Damian Mason's take on topics surrounding the business of food, fuel, and fiber, interviews with industry professionals, and other great original content.
Jun 28, 2018
ZimmCast 589 - Incredible Eggs & New CEO for USFRA
In this week's program you'll hear mostly from Cindy and the people she interviewed recently. So, let's get started by thanking our sponsor, GROWMARK, Locally Owned, Globally Strong.
First up will be an interview Cindy did with American Egg Board Marketing Communications Manager Marc Dresner. They discuss the AEB's eggciting promotional sponsorship of Disney-Pixar’s “Incredibles 2” that has audiences scrambling for new “How Do You Like Your Eggs?” recipes reflecting each of the film’s character’s unique personality or super power. The film has made the Incredible Egg into a nutrition super hero!
Then you'll get to meet Erin Fitzgerald, the new CEO of the U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance. Fitzgerald previously served as Senior Vice President, Global Sustainability for the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy®, a part of Dairy Management Inc. (DMI).
Jun 19, 2018
ZimmCast 588 - Social Networking & Ethanol Education
In this week's program I'm going to cover a couple of different topics, although there are some common elements from an educational perspective.
First up is Joanna Guza, Digital Communications Manager, Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative and also volunteer with GMO Answers. We talk about social networking as a tool to reach people about topics like GMOs, especially during Dairy Month. Joanna has some great insight and advice for using the tools we have.
Next I talk with Paul Teutul, Jr., Paul JR Designs and Discovery's American Chopper. Paul built two motorcycles that run on E-85. One bike is for the Sturgis Buffalo Chip and the other for the Renewable Fuels Association. During the project Paul learned a lot about ethanol and shares some of what he learned. The whole project is part of an on-going educational effort by RFA and uses a lot of social networking.
This is why I love my podcast. I get to talk with some awesome people in all kinds of places and about all kinds of topics!
Jun 10, 2018
ZimmCast 587 - IFAJ Congress 2018 - Jacqueline Wijbenga
In this week's program we'll get a preview of the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists annual Congress which will take place in the Netherlands this year. I spoke via Skype with one of the organizers of the Congress, Jacqueline Wijbenga, Adjunct-uitgever, Eisma Businessmedia. We discussed the program and the theme of this year's Congress.
The International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) annually organizes a world congress. Alternately, the congress takes place in Europe and on another continent. After previous editions in Germany (2016) and South Africa (2017) the conference will take place in the Netherlands in July 2018. The congress organization is appointed by the IFAJ at the request of the NVLJ, the Dutch Association for Agricultural and Horticultural Journalism. The conference will hook on to the centenary that Wageningen University & Research (WUR) celebrates in 2018. The congress organization is controlled by the independent foundation Dutch Roo…
Jun 5, 2018
Bayer AG Chairman Werner Baumann and Crop Science president Liam Condon
Jun 4, 2018
ZimmCast 586 - CCA Institute 2018
The gavel has changed hands for the Cooperative Communicators Association. Here's a picture of the new board with new President Chellie Phillips seated in the middle.
We are at the CCA Institute 2018 in Ft. Worth, TX and today and tomorrow there will be a variety of professional improvement sessions taking place with a closing banquet and night of honors and awards.
In this week's program I'm going to share interviews with Nickie Sabo, AMPI, now past president for CCA, Chellie Phillips, Coweta-Fayette EMC, new president of CCA and Matt Wettersten, GROWMARK, meter of CCA.
They will help you understand more about the purpose of the association and what it means to them in their careers and for their cooperative employers.
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
May 25, 2018
ZimmCast 585 - ONE 18, The Alltech Ideas Conference
In this week's program I'm sharing several interviews from the ONE 18, Alltech Ideas Conference.
First up is Aidan Connolly, Alltech VP, who talks about technology and what he hopes to convey to attendees this year.
Next up is USDA Under Secretary Bill Northey. Bill talks Farm Bill, RFS and his department, Farm and Foreign Agriculture Service.
Finally, you will hear from @TheFarmBabe, Michelle Miller, who talks about how she became interested in agvocating and is now considered a top social media influencer for agriculture.
May 17, 2018
ZimmCast 584 - Kondex, Distillery Madison, Farm Bill & Precision Ag
In this week's program you will hear:
* Interview with Marina Menendez, Distillery Madison
* Interview with Diane Riley/Brenda, Kondex
* Interview with Chuck Spencer, GROWMARK
* USDA story on Precision Ag Advancement
We have new members of the #GoldenMic Club, some discussion on sustainability as it relates to the Conservation Title of the Farm Bill and comments from ag equipment companies about the advancement of precision ag.
May 9, 2018
ZimmCast 583 - RFS, Ag Media, Beef and Sheep
In this week's program Chuck is sharing some podcasts that you might find interesting. Maybe even worth subscribing to?
Thinks start out with our own The Ethanol Report, sponsored by the Renewable Fuels Association. In it Cindy talks with RFA CEO Bob Dinneen about the latest RFS news which has a big impact on rural American and agriculture in general.
Then Beltway Beef is showcased, the podcast of the National Cattlemens Beef Association. This episode, hosted by Ed Frank, features NCBA's Ashley McDonald talking about the U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef's release of its National Framework for Beef Sustainability.
Next up is Chase Adams, former farm broadcaster (you can tell from that voice!) hosting the ASI Sheepcast with Kay Johnson Smith, Executive Director of the Animal Agriculture Alliance. For over 30 years, the Alliance has been on the front lines of ensuring consumers and customers are correctly informed on how food and fiber is produced by America's sheep and livestock p…
May 2, 2018
ZimmCast 582 - More New #GoldenMic Club Members
In this week's program I'm featuring some new members of the #GoldenMic Club. These folks got their first opportunity to be interviewed with one of our Golden ZimmComm Microphones during the Agri-Marketing Conference.
Featured are Curt Dennison, Curt Dennison Photography; Daniel Lamoureux, LaTerre and Jeffrey Ross, Ross Creative Works. I visited with Curt while Jamie did with Daniel and Jeffrey.
If you would like to join the club or schedule the Golden ZimmComm Microphone at your event please contact me. I'll offer ideas for how we can amplify your marketing campaigns.
Apr 27, 2018
ZimmCast 581 - GROWMARK and Ayrstone Productivity
This week's program includes two #GoldenMic interviews from #NAMA18 (Agri-Marketing Conference). Featured are Matt Wetterson, Kayla Portwood and Melissa Williams with GROWMARK. Matt talks about his responsibilities with GROWMARK and challenges and opportunities. Kayla and Melissa talk about Ag Careers and how important reaching out to young people who want to work in the industry is to GROWMARK.
You'll also hear a conversation I had with Bill Moffit, Ayrstone Productivity. The company has announced a new product for rural and farm wifi connectivity that has been designed to meet growing needs for being able to stream higher bandwidth digital content over a wide area. We use an Ayrstone Ayrmesh wifi network system here at ZimmComm World Headquarters and I can testify to how solid and simple this product is.
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Apr 19, 2018
ZimmCast 580 - Agri-Marketing Conference
During the Agri-Marketing Conference the ZimmComm Team welcomed new people to the #GoldenMic Club. In our Connection Point booth we were set up to record interviews with attendees and I'm featuring a few of them in this week's program and in weeks to come.
This week you'll hear Jamie Johansen interview:
Stephanie Stalans, Helena Agri-Enterprises
University of Wisconsin, Madison NAMA Chapter - Student Marketing Competition winner
Andy Atzenweiler, Missour Beef Cattleman
Jeffrey Gocel, a+e Networks
I hope you enjoy it and thank you for listening.
Apr 9, 2018
ZimmCast 579 - Ireland, Indonesia and #NAMA18
In this episode Jamie talks about her trip around the world to Ireland and to Indonesia. She also shares interviews from those trips.
Then Chuck interviews Jenna Oesch, Global Marketing Lead & Customer Experience Council Lead, Monsanto Company, Vegetable Seeds Division. Jenna is Chair of this year's Agri-Marketing Conference which is being held in KC, MO.
ZimmComm is exhibiting once again in the Connection Point.
Mar 27, 2018
ZimmCast 578 - National Ag Day
Mar 14, 2018
ZimmCast 577 - Agri-Pulse and Alltech
Next week will be a busy week in Washington, DC. Cindy and Chuck will be there for National Ag Day Activities, the Agri-Pulse Ag & Food Policy Summit and American Coalition for Ethanol annual Fly-in. So this week's program starts out with Sara Wyant, Agri-Pulse, providing a preview of this year's Summit program which features several panels and lots of well known individuals who will be speaking to the topics.
After that you'll hear Jamie Johansen talking with Maeve Desmond, Alltech, during the Alltech Great Green Getaway in Ireland. Maeve talks about Alltech's founder, Dr. Pearse Lyons, who just recently passed away, and how he founded this amazing company.
Mar 9, 2018
ZimmCast 576 - GROWMARK Podcast and Checkoff Collaboration
In this week's program you'll get to hear the lates episode of the GROWMARK Podcast. GROWMARK has been a long term sponsor of the ZimmCast and we thought we'd feature one of their own podcasts.
Additionally, Chuck talks with Rob McLelland and Heidi Nelson of FLM Harvest about their new initiative called Ultimate Collaboration. Here's more:
A new initiative aims to spark the ultimate expression of cooperation among agricultural leaders in support of producer-funded checkoffs. Ultimate Collaboration will raise awareness of the positive impact checkoffs have on food and rural communities, and serve as a resource to farmers, program stakeholders, the general public and public officials.
Mar 1, 2018
ZimmCast 575 - Commodity Classic Week
It is probably the busiest week of the year for the ZimmComm Team. From the Bayer AgVocacy Forum to Commodity Classic to Pork Industry Forum to Farm and Gin Show and to American Association of Swine Veterinarians.
Lots of interviews, photos, videos and all of it can be found in our online virtual ag newsrooms on AgNewsWire.com.
Feb 19, 2018
ZimmCast 574 - From National Farm Machinery Show
In the program Chuck shares interviews with Cyndee Smiley, Media Relations Manager for John Deere Ag & Turf. Cyndee talks about her job and passion for agriculture.
Chuck also shares an interview with Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture, Ryan Quarles. Ryan was the only agricultural representative in a meeting with President Trump on the Infrastructure Rollout earlier in the week.
Feb 8, 2018
ZimmCast 573 - Cattle and Corn
Jan 25, 2018
ZimmCast 572 - All Things Biodiesel and more
Interviews on biodiesel with Willie Nelson in 2006, USDA Deputy Secretary Steve Censky, National Biodiesel Board CEO Donnell Rehagen, and former NBB CEO Kenlon Johannes. Also, interviews from the John Deere Developers conference and 4th Soil Health summit
Jan 12, 2018
ZimmCast 571 - Trump at Farm Bureau
Jan 5, 2018
ZimmCast 570 - Tom Slunecka
In this episode Chuck sits down with Tom to talk about shared experiences working projects together for more than a decade, including having just conducted media training for the Minnesota Soybean leadership.
Dec 27, 2017
ZimmCast 569 - 2017 Year in Review