Best Illinois Soybean Association Podcasts (2025)

1
Crop Talk with The Short Bald Agronomist 52:15

3d ago52:15

52:15

In this episode, Kelsey Litchfield talks with Matt Montgomery, also known as The Short Bald Agronomist and Agronomy Education Lead at Beck’s Hybrids, about agronomy education, soybean management strategies, and navigating information overload. Topics include disease education (e.g., red crown rot), the role of mentorship, personal branding, people …

1
Pesticide Policy Update: The Latest from D.C. and Springfield 37:48

11d ago37:48

37:48

In this episode of the Field Advisor Podcast, Kelsey Litchfield chats with Kevin Johnson from the Illinois Fertilizer & Chemical Association and Corey Lacey from the Illinois Soybean Association. They break down what farmers need to know about the latest fertilizer and chemical trends, the EPA’s final herbicide and insecticide strategies, Illinois …

1
IL Planting Progress: Smooth Sailing or Still Waiting… 34:23

17d ago34:23

34:23

In this episode of the Field Advisor podcast, host Kelsey Litchfield checks in with Illinois Soy Envoys Seth Wiley in northern Illinois, Matt Montgomery in central and west-central Illinois, and Mike Wilson in southeastern Illinois. They provide updates on soybean and corn planting progress, which varies widely across the state — with some farmers …

1
Mike Wilson on Biologicals, Sulfur, and Smarter Soybean Management 57:02

24d ago57:02

57:02

In this episode of the Field Advisor Podcast, host Kelsey Litchfield chats with Mike Wilson, CCA and Specialty Products Marketing Manager at Wabash Valley Service Company, who brings years of experience in soybean production. They explore the evolving role of biologicals, why sulfur matters in soybean management, and lessons learned from decades of…

1
IL Soy Envoy Spotlight: Haley Brokate 37:50

1M ago37:50

37:50

Tune in to this episode of the Field Advisor Podcast as Kelsey Litchfield chats with 2025 IL Soy Envoy Haley Brokate, CCA, from Illini FS to talk agronomy and what’s really happening in the field. From tackling herbicide resistance and staying ahead on weed control to navigating labor shortages, Haley shares her perspective on these issues. They al…

1
Your Agronomy Questions, Answered 1:09:53

1M ago1:09:53

1:09:53

The Illinois Soybean Association Agronomy Team hosted a live Q&A session to discuss the 2025 growing season. Abigail Peterson, CCA, Stacy Zuber, PhD, and Stephanie Porter, CCA, discussed what to watch for this season in terms of nutrient management, weed control, cover crops, and much more.By Illinois Soybean Association

1
7 Rainy Sundays? A Look at the Spring Forecast and Summer Outlook 19:12

1M ago19:12

19:12

In this episode of the Field Advisor podcast, Kelsey Litchfield gets a weather update from Matt Reardon, senior atmospheric scientist at Nutrien Ag Solutions. They discuss how this year’s weather patterns are impacting planting season, along with the latest spring forecast, including rainfall, severe weather, and drought risks for the upcoming summ…

1
IL Soy Envoy Spotlight: Byron Hendrix 44:13

2M ago44:13

44:13

In this episode of the Field Advisor Podcast, host Kelsey Litchfield talks with Byron Hendrix, CCA, owner of Agronomy 1st LLC and 2025 Illinois Soy Envoy. Byron brings his boots-on-the-ground perspective on weed control, herbicide resistance, and soybean management. He also shares why working with a Certified Crop Adviser could be helpful on your f…

1
Tissue Testing: Is It Worth the Effort? 42:20

2M ago42:20

42:20

On this episode of the Field Advisor podcast, Kelsey Litchfield chats with Connor Sible, PhD, research assistant professor at the University of Illinois, about what tissue testing in soybeans can tell us—and whether it's worth the time and money, especially with today’s tighter margins. Connor shares what he’s learned so far from the first year of …

1
This Week on Field Advisor: Spring Storms, Soybean Planting, Cover Crop Termination and More 5:20

2M ago5:20

5:20

This week on Field Advisor, Kelsey Litchfield shares the latest blog updates, including the spring weather outlook, soybean planting recommendations, 2024 soybean disease loss data from the Crop Protection Network, and timely cover crop termination tips.By Illinois Soybean Association

1
Soybean Planting Playbook 26:02

2M ago26:02

26:02

In this episode of Field Advisor, Kelsey Litchfield and Stephanie Porter, CCA, discuss soybean planting season. They cover the risks associated with early planting, the considerations for no-till planting, adjustments in seeding rates, weed control challenges, seed quality concerns, and crop scouting.…

1
Midwest Weather Trends: What’s in Store for Spring? 35:04

2M ago35:04

35:04

In this episode of the Field Advisor podcast, Kelsey Litchfield speaks with Matt Reardon, a Senior Atmospheric Scientist at Nutrient Ag Solutions, about the current weather patterns affecting the Midwest, particularly Illinois. They discuss the recent severe storms, the implications for the upcoming growing season and the importance of being prepar…

1
Weeding Out The Bias in Ag Retail & Crop Consulting 40:00

3M ago40:00

40:00

In this episode of Field Advisor, host Kelsey Litchfield discusses the upcoming 2025 growing season with agronomists Eric Beckett and Karen Corrigan. They explore the critical role of agronomists in providing unbiased information to farmers, the biases that exist within agricultural recommendations, and the importance of data-driven decisions in cr…

1
Did Spring's Mistakes Come Back to Haunt Yields? 36:45

7M ago36:45

36:45

In this final growing season update, the IL Soy Envoys recap the top agronomic challenges of 2024 and share primary concerns for farmers heading into 2025. They discuss how early-season stressors influenced harvest yields, weed control issues, the yield hit of late spot spraying, and the challenges of fall soil testing. The Envoys also address risi…

1
Harvest Highlights & Concerns 35:50

8M ago35:50

35:50

In this episode, the IL Soy Envoys share yield reports from their regions, highlighting a wide range of results in both soybeans and corn, with many areas seeing strong yields overall. They also cover important fall topics, including soybean header loss, soil pH and lime application, the impact of planting dates on yield, soil moisture and dryness …

1
How are Yields Shaping Up? 20:12

8M ago20:12

20:12

In this episode, the IL Soy Envoys examine the current conditions of soybean and corn crops, highlighting how recent rains have enhanced moisture levels in soybeans. They review yield reports, noting variability in both corn and soybeans, with some areas experiencing lower yields due to seasonal stresses, along with reports of cercospora leaf bligh…

1
Winning with Wheat and Double-Crop Soybeans 36:03

9M ago36:03

36:03

In this episode, Kelsey Litchfield is joined by John Howell, a farmer from Monroe and Randolph counties in Illinois and president of the Illinois Wheat Association. They start by examining the 2024 winter wheat crop and the challenges it presented this year. Despite strong yields, they were slightly lower than those in 2023. John also shares his pe…

1
Will It Be a Long Harvest? 23:21

9M ago23:21

23:21

In this episode, the IL Soy Envoys discuss early harvest reports and plans for the next growing season. Soybeans are maturing quickly, and while some harvests have started with strong early yields, concerns about dry beans and a long season persist. There are reports of white mold, stalk rot, and anthracnose, but tar spot isn’t a major issue. The I…

1
Must-See Crop Moments from the 2024 Growing Season 30:21

9M ago30:21

30:21

They say a picture is worth a thousand words—so let’s dive in! The IL Soy Envoys share their most intriguing photos from the 2024 growing season, discussing what’s happening in each shot and the lessons learned. Plus, they bring you the latest weekly crop report straight from the field. If you'd like to see the photos from today's episode, click he…

1
A Record Crop During a Wet Year? 18:03

10M ago18:03

18:03

USDA-NASS forecasts yields of 225 for corn and 66 for soybeans in Illinois, but are the IL Soy Envoys seeing this potential in their fields? Listen as they share crop conditions, discussing the possible need for a second fungicide pass, and addressing reports of tar spot, SDS, white mold, and more. The guests in today’s podcast include Craig Grafto…

1
Are We Getting Too Much Rain? 17:16

10M ago17:16

17:16

Rainfall continues across Illinois, with some areas welcoming the moisture while others face potential excess. The IL Soy Envoys discuss this issue, along with disease pressure and the looming threat of tar spot. They urge farmers to continue scouting their fields and to assess corn pollination progress to avoid surprises during harvest. Additional…

1
Corn Leaf Aphids Attack! 22:01

10M ago22:01

22:01

Corn leaf aphids are invading corn fields, and wet conditions are leading to an increase in disease. The IL Soy Envoys discuss these challenges, sharing insights on disease and insect pressure, along with other field reports. The guests in today’s podcast include Shelby Weckel, Ehler Bros Seed; Eric Beckett, Illini FS; Craig Grafton, Bayer Crop Sci…

1
More Rain…Now What? 27:30

11M ago27:30

27:30

Illinois experienced significant rainfall this week, including a derecho that brought substantial precipitation to several areas. How will this impact the crops? Our Soy Envoys share their insights on the situation, along with updates on fungicide applications, pollination challenges, corn leaf aphids, soybean diseases, and more. *Editor’s note – W…

1
Should You Apply a Fungicide? 26:58

11M ago26:58

26:58

We're halfway through the growing season, and many farmers are considering whether to apply fungicide despite low commodity prices. What do our IL Soy Envoys and Certified Crop Advisers have to say on the matter? Tune in to this episode as they share their latest crop updates, rainfall reports from Hurricane Beryl, predictions for a record crop in …

1
And the Bad News Is? 30:10

11M ago30:10

30:10

After a week's break, the IL Soy Envoys have returned to provide their latest field reports. They cover precipitation levels—or the lack thereof in some regions—and discuss the emergence of tar spot and other potential diseases. Additionally, they provide updates on corn rootworm, Japanese beetles, and other significant field developments. The gues…

1
IL Crop Conditions Getting Worse? 28:16

12M ago28:16

28:16

In the USDA’s latest report of Illinois crop conditions, both soybeans and corn showed a decline in the excellent and good categories, with an increase in the poor and very poor ratings over the week. The Soy Envoys provide their crop updates, discussing emergence issues and "floppy corn," along with continued scouting for weeds after post-applicat…

1
Monitoring Root Development & Planning for Fungicide 29:29

12M ago29:29

29:29

Crop conditions remain highly variable across the state, and the IL Soy Envoys provide analysis into what's happening in their respective regions. In this episode, they also cover topics including wheat harvest, monitoring root establishment, notable slug damage in fields, crops in the "ugly duckling" phase, herbicide misapplications, and their not…

1
"Way Too Early" Soybean Yield Predictions 32:27

12M ago32:27

32:27

On this episode of ILSoyAdvisor, the Soy Envoys give their updates on field and crop conditions across Illinois. In some areas of the state, persistent rain delays and recurring ponding and flooding have left many fields unplanted, prompting decisions about prevent planting. They also address the challenges posed by the high variability in crop con…

1
Rain Makes Grain?? 30:34

1y ago30:34

30:34

Corn and soybean planting is ongoing, with some areas finished and others delayed due to field location and rainfall. Storms have caused hail damage, leading to possible soybean replanting, and crusting may also require replanting. Flash floods and ponding are creating nitrogen concerns and yellowing. Wind has also caused sandblasting in central Il…

1
Wet Conditions Delay Planting as Other Regions Race to the Finish 30:56

1y ago30:56

30:56

In the latest ILSoyAdvisor podcast, Abigail Peterson, CCA, and Stephanie Porter, CCA, from the Illinois Soybean Association discuss the current state of planting and crop conditions in Illinois. While some areas have finished planting or are working on their last fields, southern Illinois farmers face delays due to wet conditions. They share their …

1
How Will Planting Delays Impact Yield? 32:08

1y ago32:08

32:08

In this episode, the Soy Envoys discuss recent field activity, highlighting variability in conditions with some regions dry and suitable for planting while others remain wet. They report cold injury in corn, significant weed pressure, and black cutworm feeding in both corn and soybeans. The Soy Envoys also address concerns about how planting delays…

1
Switching Gears: Time to Focus on Planting Corn 26:49

1y ago26:49

26:49

Amidst planting delays, farmers are questioning whether to prioritize planting soybeans or corn. As mid-May approaches, agronomists and university researchers are advising farmers to place their focus on planting corn before soybeans. Dr. Connor Sible of the Crop Sciences Department at the University of Illinois advises patience, suggesting farmers…

1
Planting Progress: Don’t Hit the Panic Button Yet! 31:08

1y ago31:08

31:08

Planting progress in Illinois is sporadic, with some areas experiencing delays with wet spots and ponding in fields, while other areas have already planted their corn and soybean crops. Concerns arise regarding prevent planting in some areas if wet weather persists, alongside reports of emerging pests like bean leaf beetles and slugs in soybeans. A…

1
Rainfall...And Replant? 25:42

1y ago25:42

25:42

In this episode, the Soy Envoys provide an overview of recent rainfall across various regions of Illinois with reports ranging from ½ inch to 5 inches. They discuss emerging concerns such as replant considerations for soybeans, disease in wheat fields, and seedling diseases. Looking ahead, they advise on replanting decisions and caution against mak…

1
Planting Marches On: Addressing Concerns with Herbicide Applications, Weather Forecasts, Cover Crop Termination, and More 28:20

1y ago28:20

28:20

The latest episode from the Soy Envoys brings a brief update on planting and field conditions across Illinois, with both corn and soybeans planting progress at 11 percent as of April 21st. While some areas have finished planting and others haven't even begun, some farmers are halfway done! The Envoys note a slowdown in planting in some regions due …

1
Planting Progress: A Marathon, Not a Sprint! 25:44

1y ago25:44

25:44

The Soy Envoys provide a short update on planting progress and field conditions across different regions of Illinois. They discuss weed control strategies and herbicide applications as well as the connection of winter annual weeds being a host for soybean cyst nematode. Click here for more information from Purdue University. With planting season un…

1
Planting Progress Report: Addressing Henbit Concerns, Cover Crop Termination, Pest Alerts, and More. 26:13

1y ago26:13

26:13

In this episode, the ILSoyAdvisor Soy Envoys launch a new series, offering updates on statewide field conditions. They focus on concerns such as henbit control, cover crop termination, and reports of black cutworms and armyworms. Additionally, they discuss planting progress, currently at 2% for corn and soybeans (as of 4/7), attributing the delay t…

1
Integrated Weed Management Maybe the Answer to Herbicide Resistance 22:36

1y ago22:36

22:36

Herbicide resistance among weeds has become a significant challenge, so farmers must explore diverse strategies for weed management. GROW (Getting Rid of Weeds) is a scientist-led network coordinating research to help farmers across the U.S. fight herbicide resistance. Their focus extends beyond chemical solutions to encompass non-chemical techniqu…

1
Radicle Agronomics with Eli Sloneker 15:11

1y ago15:11

15:11

Join Kelsey Litchfield and Kelly Robertson, ILSoyAdvisor Soy Envoy and soil fertility agronomist, as they talk with Eli Sloneker from Precision Planting about Radicle Agronomics and their mission to transform soil nutrient management in farming. In this episode, Eli offers an overview into Radicle Agronomics, and how it got started seven years ago …

1
Ready, Set, Go: Planter Prep Checklist 12:37

1y ago12:37

12:37

As February brought warmer temperatures, Illinois soybean producers are gearing up for spring. From field preparations to reports of planters in action, signs of early soybean planting are emerging across the state. During a recent visit to Commodity Classic in Houston, Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) Outreach Agronomist and CCA, Stephanie Porte…

1
No More Secrets: Maintain A Season-Long Approach for High Yielding Soybeans 46:50

1+ y ago46:50

46:50

In this podcast, Dr. Connor Sible shares the 2024 update of Dr. Fred Below's Six Secrets to Soybean Success. He talks about weather and planting date and how the earliest planting date may not always win in terms of yield, but explains the potential it can bring with little relative risk and why planting soybeans before corn is worth a try. The pod…

1
Illnois Soybean Association on KICD Radio 7:23

1+ y ago7:23

7:23

Stephanie Porter speaks about Better Beans and Soybean Summit with KICD Radio in Spencer, Iowa.By ISA

1
Year in Review (Part 2): Unpacking Agronomy Highlights of 2023 37:58

1+ y ago37:58

37:58

In today's installment, host Kelsey Litchfield continues a deep dive into the 2023 growing season with part 2 of the recap, featuring insights from Stephanie Porter, Outreach Agronomist and Certified Crop Adviser with the Illinois Soybean Association. They discuss "root rot mania" plus the big topic of red crown crown. Stephanie also shares observa…

1
Year in Review (Part 1): Unpacking Agronomy Highlights of 2023 30:41

1+ y ago30:41

30:41

Join us for the latest episode of the ILSoyAdvisor podcast with your host Kelsey Litchfield, from the Illinois Soybean Association. In this episode, we sit down with Stephanie Porter, an outreach agronomist and certified crop adviser, to dive into the challenges and highlights of the 2023 growing season. From the drought to the unexpected derecho i…

1
Should I Rely on Residuals? Plus White Mold Concerns, Soil Fertility Recommendations, Harvest and Yield Reports, and More 31:28

1+ y ago31:28

31:28

In this podcast episode, we hear from three agronomists with updates on soybean and corn harvest and their concerns for the upcoming season. Bayer Agronomist, Jim Donnelly, shares recent rains have delayed harvest, but soybean yields are generally in the 70s with some reports in the 60s and 80s. Crystal Williams, Illinois Soy Envoy and Pioneer Agro…

1
Weekly Headlines: Harvest Highlights, Weather Outlook, and Opposing EPA's Herbicide Strategy 4:48

1+ y ago4:48

4:48

Kelsey Litchfield discusses the agronomy headlines of the week from ILSoyAdvisor.com. In this episode, she shares a harvest update from the Illinois Soy Envoys, explore the weather outlook for the remainder of harvest, examine the impact of cover crops on soybean growth during the 2023 season, discuss the effort to oppose the EPA Herbicide Strategy…

1
A Harvest Roller Coaster: Illinois Soy Envoys Share Crop Updates 38:58

1+ y ago38:58

38:58

This year's harvest has brought a wide range of yields so far, from disappointing to outstanding, in both soybeans and corn. The Illinois Soy Envoys offer a wide-ranging harvest report, covering yield assessments from various regions across the state. In addition, they provide insights into the growing season, addressing challenges such as insects,…

1
ByAssociation Fueling Progress with IL Corn and ISA EP13 10:37

2y ago10:37

10:37

In the latest episode of the By Association Podcast, ISA communicators Claire Weinzierl and Betsy Osman are checking in with Lindsay Mitchell, Director of Marketing and Communications for IL Corn, about the partnering organizations’ shared booth at this year’s Farm Progress Show. They’ll talk about the many ways Illinois farmers’ checkoff dollars a…

1
ByAssociation With Gracie Pierson EP 12 18:36

2y ago18:36

18:36

In the latest episode of the By Association Podcast, Claire and Betsy are checking in with Gracie Pierson, Consumer Engagement Manager for the Illinois Farm Bureau to learn more about the Farm Bureau’s role in consumer-facing initiatives, including the most recent “We Are the 96%” campaign, and the ways ISA and Illinois Farm Bureau are working toge…

1
ByAssociation With Jack Marck EP. 11 23:01

2y ago23:01

23:01

In the latest episode of the By Association Podcast, Rachel and Betsy are checking in with Jack Marck, Managing Director of the Illinois AgTech Accelerator. Recently, Jack has been working to create new systems for establishing ag data standards, and sharing that information across industry stakeholders, in an effort to increase collaboration aroun…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Illinois Soybean Association Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen