Patio Ponderings
Exploring the Expected and the Obscure in Agriculture
From a lifetime in agriculture to deep dives into leadership, rural life, and the evolving food system, Patio Pondering is a podcast where thoughtful conversations meet the open air. Hosted by Jim Smith, Ph.D., a seasoned Swine Nutritionist, agricultural thinker, and storyteller, this podcast explores the connections between our agricultural roots and the broader world.
What started as daily reflections—scribbled with a morning coffee in hand—has grown into a podcast that uncovers the insights, challenges, and sometimes-forgotten history of the industry that feeds us all. Whether solo pondering or engaging in candid discussions with guests, this show digs into everything from livestock production to food trends, rural business shifts, and the personal stories that shape agricultural life.
Now available in both audio and video formats, Patio Pondering brings these discussions to life on YouTube and podcast platforms alike. Whether you prefer to listen on the go or watch the conversation unfold, you’ll find fresh perspectives, candid storytelling, and the kind of conversations that make you think twice.
Subscribe and join the conversation—because agriculture is more than just dirt and livestock. It’s a story worth telling.
Patio Ponderings
Episode 67: Diversification & Direct-to-Consumer with Mary Marsh Heigele
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Join Jim at the Fort Wayne Farm Show for an energizing conversation with Mary Marsh Heigele from New Ag Supply in North Central Kansas. Mary brings a unique perspective on agriculture, having grown up in California's almond country and now farming wheat, corn, and cattle in Kansas with her husband Hayden.
In this episode, we explore:
- How New Ag Supply ships replacement planter parts nationwide (yes, even to Alaska and Hawaii!)
- Staying optimistic during challenging commodity prices
- Direct-to-consumer beef marketing as farm diversification
- Using your own corn to feed cattle as a value-added opportunity
- Cover crops as a gateway to thinking outside the traditional row crop box
- Off-farm income through photography and videography
- Real-world examples of farm diversification beyond the traditional corn-soy-wheat rotation
Mary shares honest insights about the current agricultural climate across the country and encourages farmers to explore diversification opportunities - whether that's different crops, livestock, or even leveraging skills like photography to support the farm operation.
Contact New Ag Supply:
- Website: newagsupply.com
- Phone: 620-938-7009
- Find them on Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok
Whether you're looking for quality replacement planter parts or inspiration to diversify your operation, this episode delivers practical ideas and genuine conversation about agriculture today.
#Agriculture #FarmDiversification #DirectToConsumer #CoverCrops #FarmBusiness #PatroPondering