Podcasts

Rob-See-Co Field Ready

Episode Archive

Episode 68

Christmas and Silage from Dairy Dive

December 15, 2022

This week we are releasing an episode of the Masters Choice podcast, Dairy Dive. Listen in as members of the Masters Choice team do a deep dive on Christmas and Silage. Guest host Andrew Crabtree, Masters Choice Marketing Manager, Scott Harris, Masters Choice Brand Manager and Jimmy Parmley, Masters Choice Account Manager, discuss their Christmas traditions as well as an overview of silage in 2022. Masters Choice expanded their sales force to 115 dealers and added new hybrids that are performing well. They also talk about some interesting data from a 2022 recap report from Rock River Lab, and the upward trend on the undigestible portion (the UNDF240) of the plant.

Episode 67

Managing The Current Financial Climate

December 1, 2022

Interest rates are going up and farmers may be feeling the pressure of inflation. Listen in asguest host Andrew Crabtree, Marketing Manager at Masters Choice, interviews Ryan Halls, Rob-See-Co CFO, about what is unique in the current financial climate. The discussion centers around interest rates: how does the cost of money effect farmers immediately and in the long term, what are the main drivers of the increased rates, what are the global impacts that effect farmers, what are some ways to navigate these higher costs, and what might look different in the future in agriculture or the seed industry as a whole.

Episode 66

What Is Exciting in the Pipeline Right Now?

November 1, 2022

The objective of every product management team is to improve the product portfolio. On this episode guest host Andrew Crabtree, Marketing Manager at Masters Choice, interviews Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Chief Technology Officer, about his recent pilgrimage through corn fields to see, touch, feel, and measure the Rob-See-Co product trials as well as the licensors trials. Listen in as they discuss what Jim discovered, the opportunities available now, and what’s exciting for growers looking forward.

Episode 65

In the Field with Rob Robinson

October 15, 2022

This time of year, Rob Robinson, CEO of Rob-See-Co, takes his annual field tour to look at the corn hybrids. Listen in as guest host Andrew Crabtree, Marketing Manager at Masters Choice, talks to Rob about the importance of walking the fields, the states that he visited, how the corn looks, how the new products are performing, and what he’s most excited about for the coming season. They also discuss the new Rob-See-Co footprint and the opportunities the new acquisitions bring to the company. Listen in to get ready for the upcoming season.

Episode 64

What To Do About The Dreaded Fall Slump in Silage?

October 1, 2022

It’s Harvest time in this part of the country which means dairy farmers are trying to figure out how to avoid the dreaded Fall Slump. On today’s episode we have guest hosts from Rob-See-Co’s specialty silage brand, Masters Choice. Andrew Crabtree, Marketing Manager, and Scott Hall, Brand Lead, discuss extending the harvest window, reasons for staggering maturity rates when planting, how the starch availability in Hybrids can help with the Fall Slump, if processing is essential, and how reaching 75% starch availability early can save the farmer money. Listen in to learn how you can minimize this impact.

Episode 63

Harvest Considerations – What’s Your Plan?

September 1, 2022

On today’s episode we have guest host, Nate Meyer, Product Evaluation Lead at Rob-See-Co. Nate talks to Kris Laub, one of the District Sales Managers at Rob-See-Co about the weather challenges that can affect how harvesting will take place this Fall. The episode covers what they are seeing in different areas of the country, things that should be considered at the crop or field level, how harvest will be affected by the challenging weather and the importance of gathering information during harvest to plan for next year. Tune in and get tips to make your harvest successful.

Episode 62

Drying Corn Isn't Only Important for the Elevator

August 15, 2022

Drying seed corn can have an immense impact on your farm. Listen in to this episode of Rob-See-Co’s Field Ready podcast when host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Chief Technology Officer and Aaron Sinclair, Chief Operating Officer at Rob-See-Co with over 20 years of experience in seed production, discuss why the proper drying of seed corn is so important, the appropriate approach to drying seed, what happens if you dry it too fast or too slow, and how production research helps to inform the process on a per hybrid basis.

Episode 61

Jeff Rens: Seedsman Extraordinaire

July 1, 2022

The seed business is based on relationships and trust. On this episode of Rob-See-Co’s Field Ready podcast host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Chief Technology Officer talks to Jeff Rens, a Rob-See-Co District Sales Manager and recently recognized Best of Northwest Seed Dealer by The Northwest Iowa Review about his history in the seed business, how he builds trust and relationships with this customers, being “All In” with your brand, balancing service, product and technology, and what customers value most in their seed dealer. Listen in and learn how Jeff goes the extra mile.

Episode 60

Making The Most Of Your Seed Investment with Streamline Ag

June 15, 2022

Growers are experiencing sky-high fertilizer prices as well as increased costs for many other things so it’s important to get the highest yield possible from their fields. Listen in to this episode of Rob-See-Co’s Field Ready podcast when host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Chief Technology Officer talks to Jeff Dilbeck, Rob-See-Co Chief Commercial Officer and Streamline Ag Sales Manager about Streamline Ag products and how they can improve the performance of your seed. Learn which products are most relevant for today, about full year nutrition products, which products help relieve stress in fields and designing a program for higher yield across a grower’s field.

Episode 59

2 Family-Owned “Seed” Companies Their History, Challenges, and Opportunities

June 1, 2022

Family-owned agriculture companies are growing fewer and farther between these days and they have their own set of challenges and opportunities. Listen in to this episode of Rob-See-Co’s Field Ready podcast when host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Chief Technology Officer and Les Vogler, co-owners of Vogler Semen Centre and host of the podcast The Bull Pen, talk about their businesses, the growth patterns of the companies, how times are changing, technology’s role in the industry, and what gets them fired up to do this work every day. Tune in and learn how these 2 growing companies are planning for the future in the current environment.

Episode 58

Planter Adjustments with the Planter Doctor - Every Seed Counts

April 15, 2022

This week on Rob-See-Co’s Field Ready podcast our guest host Kip Rowe, Regional Sales Manager at Rob-See-Co and the “Planter Doctor,” Kevin Kimberley from Kimberley Ag Consulting discuss the importance of setting up your planter. Tune in to hear real examples from the field and learn why it’s important to clean and calibrate your equipment, how your plates should change based on the seed, when down pressure comes into play, how to set your trash cleaners and more. According to the Planter Doctor “everything is taught through the sidewall” so listen in to make sure your planter is set right for optimal yield.

Episode 57

Top 5 Ways to Plan for Spring Planting

April 1, 2022

There is a lot to consider when planning your spring field work. This week we are replaying a previous episode that is very relevant to this time of year. Host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager, sits down with Rob-See-Co’s Product Evaluation Leads Nate Meyer and Jacob Foley to break down the top 5 considerations when preparing your farm for spring planting, and how to adjust when Mother Nature doesn’t provide ideal conditions. What date should you plant by? What changes should you make if we have a late spring? Listen in to find out what has the biggest effect on profitability, how to approach tillage in respect to planting date, and much more.

Episode 56

Streamline Ag: Little Things Make a Big Difference

March 15, 2022

American Agriculture has seen ever-increasing yields and, therefore, higher demands on seed to deliver those higher yields. That’s why it is critical to give every seed and every plant all the advantages they need to deliver on their full potential. This week on Rob-See-Co’s Field Ready podcast our host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Chief Technology Officer, and his guest Nick Maple, a representative of Streamline Ag, talk about 3 products that can help growers improve the factors that increase yield. What are these products, how do they work and when should they be applied to have the most impact? Listen in and learn how these products can improve the performance of your seed.

Episode 55

The Future of the Farm Equipment Industry

March 1, 2022

Equipment is vital yet one of the most expensive things about running your farm. On today’s episode of Rob-See-Co’s Field Ready podcast, we are sharing a recent episode of the Masters Choice MC podcast about the status of the farm equipment industry. MC Podcast Host Scott Harris and Tractor Zoom CEO Kyle McMahon discuss the biggest challenges farmers are facing right now when it comes to equipment needs. How long can we expect the equipment shortage to last? How will it continue to impact pricing? Tune in to hear how inventory and availability have changed and where the industry is headed.

Episode 54

New Enlist Herbicide Labels? We’ve Got You Covered.

February 15, 2022

This week on Rob-See-Co’s Field Ready podcast our host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Chief Technology Officer, breaks down the Enlist One and Enlist Duo herbicide label changes. Listen in as Jim summarizes the EPA’s renewed registration of these products that resulted in additional controls and restrictions. Tune in to learn why Enlist One and Enlist Duo herbicides were re-registered, what the label changes are, who it impacts, and how you can plan ahead.

In addition to the podcast, click the button below (right) to access a useful sheet on Herbicide Management.

Episode 53

Will the New Corn Hybrids Please Stand Up

February 1, 2022

This week on Rob-See-Co’s Field Ready Podcast our host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Chief Technology Officer and Rob-See-Co Product Evaluation Leads Jacob Foley and Nate Meyer discuss 2021-22 Corn Advancements. Every corn product manager is trying to increase yield, producibility, agronomic characteristics or just fill gaps in a product lineup. Listen in to the discussion on some of the challenges this year, which products were able to be advanced, new additions to the hybrid portfolio, how these new additions stack up for yield and drought tolerance and the favorite new advancements and why. Tune in to learn which products may be right for your field.

Episode 52

Hybrid Selection: Maximizing Feed Value for Your Animal

January 15, 2022

In this episode of Field Ready, we’re sharing an interview from the Masters Choice podcast. Field Ready host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Chief Technology Officer, is interviewed by Scott Harris, Brand Lead at Masters Choice and host of MC Podcast. Jim and Scott discuss corn genetics, the direction that the grain industry is going, and why it matters on the farm. Tune in to hear why yield isn’t the only important factor, why not all starch is created equal, and why it’s important for independent companies like Rob-See-Co to have a diverse portfolio.

Episode 51

A Behind the Scenes Look at Corn Seed Preparation

January 1, 2021

This time of year, we typically have our harvest results in front of us to begin making sense of yields by field and by product. This information is very important for making product selections for 2022. But as you’ll often see quoted throughout the industry: “Individual results may vary.” What does this mean? How should we approach interpreting our results in 2021 to plan for 2022? Host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Chief Technology Officer, visits with Brad Schindler, a Direct Sales Representative at Rob-See-Co, to break down the disclaimer. Jim and Brad discuss factors that impact a hybrid or variety’s performance, why you should analyze data from surrounding regional areas as well as from year to year, and how a farmer can utilize this information to make planting decisions in 2022.

Episode 50

Understanding Your Harvest Results

December 15, 2021

Tune in to this episode of the Field Ready Podcast as host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and his guest Aaron Wulf, Rob-See-Co Production Manager discuss the steps involved in corn seed production. When is the 2021 seed crop harvested? What are the key factors when starting the process so early and how do the high moisture levels impact the process? Jim and Aaron cover everything from how to dry the seed and how to maintain and predict seed quality to determining final bag weights. Listen in and learn all this behind the scenes information before you plant your corn next year.

Episode 49

2021 - A Year in Review

December 1, 2021

The 2021 harvest season is in the books so it’s time to look back at the dominant factors affecting this year’s yield. In today’s episode Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Chief Technology Officer, reviews the past year with Rob-See-Co Product Evaluation Leads Nate Meyer and Jacob Foley. Listen in as they discuss the dry conditions in the Fall of 2020 and how that impacted planting in 2021. Most areas had favorable conditions in April and May of this year but what were the challenges in June and July and were they the same across all geographies? Finally, how was harvest across the Rob-See-Co footprint and what should growers be considering when purchasing seed for Spring of 2022.

Episode 48

It’s Time to Focus on the Long-term Profitability of Your Farm

November 1, 2021

2021 is the first year in quite some time that farmers in many areas were able to forecast significant profitability. Low commodity prices and high costs in previous years made profit margins thin or even negative. With many farmers finding relief this year, it’s time to get serious about long-term profitability. In today’s episode Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Chief Technology Officer, welcomes guest Jason Saalfeld, Rob-See-Co Accounting Manager, to discuss how farmers can turn this year’s profit into improving the long-term financial health of their farms. Tune in to find out what factors drove improved profitability in 2021, what profitability obstacles farmers face in a typical year, and how farmers can prioritize investment while minimizing tax burden.

Episode 47: High Yielding Enlist E3 Soybeans. Surprised? We aren’t.

October 1, 2021

Soybean yields are coming in higher than expected. It’s hard to imagine that last summer we were hearing lots of concern across the country about how bad Soybeans looked due to dicamba damage. What changed? In today’s episode Jim Robinson, Rob See Co Corn and Soybean Manager and his guest, Kip Rowe, Rob See Co Regional Sales Manager, discuss why growers were concerned, the levels of dicamba exposure and the effect on plants, the results of 3rd party research trials, and why the soybeans are outperforming expectations. Listen in to get recommendations on how to determine which platforms you should use in 2022.

Episode 46: Harvest Progress, Safety, and Know-how

October 1, 2021

Harvest is moving along rapidly but there is still much to be done. Host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager sits down with Kris Laub, Rob-See-Co Direct Sales Representative, and Nate Meyer, Rob-See-Co Product Evaluation Lead to get an update on harvest progress in different regions and discuss harvest safety tips. Our guests also give insight on how to make the best harvesting decisions. How should you prioritize your remaining crops and fields? What can you do during harvest to set yourself up for a successful planting season next year? Tune in to this episode to hear the answers and learn about some important safety protocols to protect yourself and others on your farm.

Rob-See-Co 45: Dead Corn - What Happened?

September 15, 2021

As we evaluate fields and plots in mid-September, farmers and seedsmen alike notice things in the field that cause us to pause. One question we generally hear in mid-September is, “Why are some plants dying early? Is it the refuge component? Will these dying plants hurt yield?” Listen in as host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager, answers these questions and more. Jim explains what causes early death in corn and how to identify it, how early death impacts yield, and walks through how it can be managed in the future.

Rob-See-Co 44: Introducing Masters Choice – The Quality Silage Difference

September 1, 2021

It’s September which means it’s silage chopping time. Listen in as host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and Scott Harris, Brand Manager at Masters Choice discuss what makes quality silage and how the Masters Choice selection process differs from the industry as a whole. How do genetics play into the strategy? How does quality affect digestibility for the animals? What can a grower do to maximize silage quality? Is there an appropriate stage and moisture for chopping? Get the answers to these questions and more by tuning in to this Field Ready podcast.

Rob-See-Co 43: White Mold - Revisited

August 15, 2021

In this episode of the Rob-See-Co Field Ready Podcast we’d like to bring back a previous episode that is very appropriate for this time of year. This podcast covers the impact white mold can have on your soybeans.

Rob-See-Co 42: Seed Pollination and Why Sterile Plants are a Good Thing

August 1, 2021

The birds and the bees of row cropping is a critically important topic at this time of year. In many geographies, corn pollination is underway or already complete. In this episode, host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and Aaron Wulf, Production Manager at Rob-See-Co discuss why seed pollination is so important, yet tricky, and why sterile plants are good for your seed. Get a high-level overview of pollination during seed production, learn why it’s so important to remove female tassels, why male sterility is beneficial to seed production and why farmers might benefit. Tune in for this important and timely episode.

Rob-See-Co 41: Corn Rootworm - Beetles are in the Air!

July 15, 2021

It’s mid-July and you may be noticing parchment-like lesions on the leaves of the corn in your corn-on-corn fields indicating peak beetle emergence. In this episode, Host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager talks to his guest, Wayne Fithian, Agronomy Manager at Rob-See-Co about peak corn rootworm beetle flight. How does 2021 timing compare to the average? Why do beetles feed on the leaves when they first emerge? What is the action threshold for beetles per trap per day when using sticky traps? What type of control measures can you take this season and what are the options for next season if you aren’t able to control it this year? Tune in to this episode and get control of beetles in your field.

Rob-See-Co 40: Salt Your Food, Not Your Soybeans - Salt Exclusion in Soybeans

July 1, 2021

As tasty and simple as table salt is for our food, it can wreak havoc on the yields of our row crops. Host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager, discusses the problem of having excess salt in the soil and the effects it can have on yield. Learn what makes a soybean variety susceptible, what happens to impacted plants, whether salt tolerance and IDC tolerance are the same thing and why we should care that the major, dominant allele is on the 3rd chromosome. Listen in to find out why it’s important to choose the right variety to plant on your farm so you don’t experience the effects of too much salt.

Rob-See-Co 39: Here Come the Weeds - Managing In-Crop Herbicide Application

June 15, 2021

A lot is going on underneath the soil this time of year, some of it good and some of it not so good. The root system is rapidly expanding and preparing to feed the above ground plant, but what else is going on beneath the surface that you need to watch for? Host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and Wayne Fithian, Rob-See-Co Agronomy Manager, discuss what’s happening beneath the soil surface as your crops progress out of the seedling stage and into the vegetative growth period. Tune into this episode to learn what to look for above ground in order to identify possible issues beneath the surface including soil compaction, insect pests, and more.

Rob-See-Co Field Ready 38: Beneath the Soil – Out of Sight but Not Out of Mind

June 1, 2021

A lot is going on underneath the soil this time of year, some of it good and some of it not so good. The root system is rapidly expanding and preparing to feed the above ground plant, but what else is going on beneath the surface that you need to watch for? Host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and Wayne Fithian, Rob-See-Co Agronomy Manager, discuss what’s happening beneath the soil surface as your crops progress out of the seedling stage and into the vegetative growth period. Tune into this episode to learn what to look for above ground in order to identify possible issues beneath the surface including soil compaction, insect pests, and more.

Rob-See-Co Field Ready 37: So You Got Hail, Now What?

May 14, 2021

You’ve done all of your preparation since last fall’s harvest to maximize your yield potential and profitability in 2021. But low and behold, a hailstorm bellows through leaving you with tattered plants. What now? Host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and Kip Rowe, Rob-See-Co Regional Sales Manager, walk through the steps growers can take after a hailstorm. Tune into this episode of Field Ready to learn why you shouldn’t panic, how to evaluate your losses, and in what circumstances you can even get away with doing nothing all.

Rob-See-Co Field Ready 36: 3 Things You Need to Know About Pythium

April 30, 2021

You’ve probably heard of Pythium, and maybe you’ve even seen it on your corn field. But do you know how it impacts your crop? Host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and Nate Meyer, Rob-See-Co Product Evaluation Lead, answer three key questions about Pythium: What is Pythium? How does it impact your crop? How can it best be managed? Tune in to this episode to find out the answers - they might not be what you think. You’ll also learn why Pythium needs cold, wet, and cloudy weather to thrive and why it’s so difficult to identify.

Rob-See-Co Field Ready 35: Corn-isms Part II: Rain Makes Grain

April 15, 2021

Where does the term “Rain Makes Grain” come from? A popular country music artist might be to blame, but is it true that if you don’t get rain, you don’t get as much corn? Host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and Wayne Fithian, Rob-See-Co Agronomy Manager discuss why the timing of rain is more important than other factors like total rainfall. Tune in to this episode to learn when crops really need water to produce optimum yields, why growers can remain optimistic during a slightly dry spring, and more.

Rob-See-Co Field Ready 34: How Current and Guarantee Prices Impact Your Dryland Corn Acres

April 1, 2021

In this week’s episode of the Field Ready Podcast, host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and his guest, Paul Mussman of AgWest Commodities, discuss the corn price volatility between Spring 2021 and the Fall of 2021, and how that could impact growers decisions on production and the sale of grain.  What have higher commodity prices done to guarantees?  What should growers expect on volatility between now and Fall?  What does the ability to lock in spring prices with crop insurance guarantees mean for farmers? Are there other considerations for managing costs and maximizing revenue?  Tune in to today’s podcast for answers to these questions and more.

Rob-See-Co Field Ready 33: Cover Crop Series - Terminating Cover Crops This Spring

March 15, 2021

As you consider planting this spring, how and when should you terminate your cover crop? Host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager, sits down with Meaghan Anderson, Iowa State University Extension Field Specialist to discuss the current state of cover crops across Iowa, why farmers use cover crops, and best termination practices. Listen in to learn how early or late to terminate your cover crop and the best way to do so. Jim and Meaghan also discuss what to do if broadleaf species are present.

Rob-See-Co Field Ready 32: and the Top 5 Ways to Plan for Spring Planting

March 1, 2021

There is a lot to consider when planning your spring field work. Host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager, sits down with Rob-See-Co’s Product Evaluation Leads Nate Meyer and Jacob Foley to break down the top 5 considerations when preparing your farm for spring planting, and how to adjust when Mother Nature doesn’t provide ideal conditions. What date should you plant by? What changes should you make if we have a late spring? Listen in to find out what has the biggest effect on profitability, how to approach tillage in respect to planting date, and much more.

Episode 31: Dispelling Common Myths about Traits

February 15, 2021

Over the last 20+ years GMO traits have made things easier for farmers but there are a lot of myths about what is really happening with these traits.  Listen in to this week’s Field Ready Podcast as host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager breaks down 4 of these myths:  breeding stacks vs. molecular stacks, conventional hybrids are more digestible than traited products, traits increase yield, and finally, modern traits have yield drag.  Jim covers whether these myths are true or false, the background behind them, and how the reality can affect farmers.  Tune in and learn how to determine the best product or hybrid for your farm.

Episode 30: Corn Rootworm Beetle Trap Project and How It Affects Growers

February 1, 2021

Over the past 3 years and across 8 states Rob-See-Co has been conducting a Corn Rootworm Trap study.  Listen in to this week’s Field Ready Podcast as host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and Wayne Fithian, Agronomy Manager at Rob-See-Co, discuss the motivation for measuring the efficacies of Corn Rootworm control strategies. How was the study conducted?  What was measured?  Was there a difference in corn on corn fields vs. corn on soybean fields and did results differ by geography?  With the CRW population trending upwards, it’s important for growers to know which control strategy may be right for them.  Tune in to learn more.

Episode 29: What is Rob Robinson Excited About?

January 15, 2021

A lot is changing in the world of agriculture, especially in the seed business. Host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager, sits down with Rob Robinson, Rob-See-Co CEO, to find out what Rob is looking forward to in 2021. Rob discusses the high performance of Enlist E3 products and why so many acres are shifting to Enlist. Rob also touches on some new product offerings and discusses why farmers should be excited about commodity prices in 2021. Tune in to this episode to find out why Rob-See-Co has such an extensive testing process and how that benefits the grower when combined with the company’s high-quality standards.

Episode 28: January Grain Stocks Report

January 1, 2021

The Final Crop Production Report will be released on January 12, 2021.  Listen in to this week’s Field Ready Podcast as host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and his guest Bob Linneman, a Broker with Kluis Commodity Advisors, discuss how this year’s report may impact growers decisions in the coming weeks.  How would a South American decline in production affect American markets?  Is the report expected to show an increase or decrease in U.S. carryout?  What should growers do to protect their current position?  How soon do growers need to be making moves and what can we expect in 2021?  All this and more is covered in this latest episode so tune in.  If you have questions for Bob, you can reach him at 888-282-6141.

Episode 27: A Behind the Scenes Look at Corn Seed Preparation

December 1, 2020

Tune in to this episode of the Field Ready Podcast as host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and his guest Aaron Wulf, Rob-See-Co Production Manager discuss the steps involved in corn seed production. When is the 2021 seed crop harvested? What are the key factors when starting the process so early and how do the high moisture levels impact the process? Jim and Aaron cover everything from how to dry the seed and how to maintain and predict seed quality to determining final bag weights. Listen in and learn all this behind the scenes information before you plant your corn next year.

Episode 26: Grain Markets

December 1, 2020

This week on the Field Ready Podcast host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and his guest Bob Linneman, a Broker with Kluis Commodity Advisors, discuss what’s happened in the grain markets in 2020.  With the big spike in demand and the supply trend declining, how can growers take advantage of this situation?  This type of demand, especially for Soybeans, has never been seen before.  How will it play out?  What is recommended if growers have unsold grain?  Will spreads keep moving?  Finally, what does this mean for 2021 crops?  Listen to this information packed episode to learn more about the corn and soybean markets.

Episode 25: 2020 - A Year in Review

November 15, 2020

2020 was an interesting year for corn and soybeans, with a variety of differing factors affecting crops across the growing region. Listen to Field Ready Podcast host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and his guest Wayne Fithian, Agronomy Manager at Rob-See-Co discuss these factors in this 2020 - A Year in Review. From ideal moisture to drought, and low winds to devastating wind events like the derecho in Iowa, growers across the region faced wide spread of conditions throughout the season. Wayne also shares considerations for growers looking ahead to 2021.

Episode 24: Honoring Ed Robinson

November 2, 2020

Tune in to this special episode of the Rob-See-Co Field Ready Podcast as our host, Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager, pays tribute to his grandfather Ed Robinson.  Ed was President of the JC Robinson Seed Company for 55 years and was one of the founders of the Golden Harvest Seed company.  He had a big impact on the seed industry and in 2016, Dan Charles from NPR did an interview with Ed about the consolidation of the seed industry.  The interview is included in this episode.  We thank NPR for allowing us to replay this interview in tribute to Ed.

Episode 23: What is Test Weight in Corn?

October 15, 2020

What is test weight in corn, and does it directly correlate with yield? Hear from host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager, and Jacob Foley, Rob-See-Co Product Evaluation Lead, as they dive into what really affects corn test weight. Jacob talks through the history of test weight and different types of bushels. Listen in for a discussion on how management practices impact test weight, what environmental factors will influence it, how growers are compensated, and ultimately if test weight does correlate with yield.

Episode 22: Developing New Corn Hybrids

October 1, 2020

Tune in to this episode of the Rob-See-Co Field Ready Podcast as host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager talks with Ben Ford, Manager of the North American Corn Breeding Team for Syngenta about changes in the breeding process and the technology of developing new corn products.  The discussion centers around developing new parental lines, what they look for when developing hybrids from the new lines, how selections are handled, what growers should be excited about and what new technogies growers might see.  With all the data that is now available, there’s a lot to look forward to in the breeding space.

Episode 21:  Seed Industry Consolidation – What Happened and Why 

September 15, 2020

Listen to this episode of the Rob-See-Co Field Ready Podcast as host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager talks with Professor Philip Howard from the Dept. of Community Sustainability at Michigan State University about consolidation of the seed industry. Learn about the history of the industry from the role intellectual property rights have played in consolidation, to the increased control of seed genetics and how stricter protections on transgenic intellectual property affected the independent seed companies. Why did consolidation accelerate in the 1990’s? What does consolidation mean for farmers? Are there any silver linings? Tune in and hear how the beer industry gives us a positive example for the future.

Episode 20: Cover Crop Series - Weed Suppression

September 1, 2020

Can cover crops effectively suppress weeds? In part one of our Cover Crop Series, learn about integrated weed management strategies from host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and Chris Proctor, Weed Management Extension Educator at University of Nebraska. What types of weed species can be most effectively targeted with these strategies? Chris tells us how the relationship between cover crop biomass and weed biomass plays a big part in weed suppression, and the importance of understanding weed biology. Listen in to hear how farmers can use cover crops to improve their weed control by implementing cover crops into their crop strategy. Find out more information from Chris by visiting his Nebraska Extension CropWatch website here.

Episode 19:  White Mold

August 15, 2020

This week on the Field Ready podcast host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager, and Jacob Foley, Rob-See-Co Product Evaluation Lead discuss white mold in soybeans.  A clean, beautiful soybean field in late June can change to a patchy wilting field with a white mold in August.  What are the causes of white mold in soybeans and are there ways to manage it?  Are certain geographic regions more susceptible?  Are there soybean varieties that are resistant?  What causes the yield loss?  Listen to Jim and Jacob share expert advice on ways to manage white mold including planting tips, weed control, crop rotation and harvest.

Episode 18: Maximizing ROI Using Hybrid Response to Population

August 1, 2020

Pollination is well underway so it’s time to start looking at ear development and different hybrid’s response to population.  In this episode of the Rob-See-Co Field Ready podcast, host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager, delves into different ways these hybrids respond to population and how you can use this information in the future.  What is hybrid flex and how does it impact yield?  Does it make a difference if a hybrid is prolific vs. non-prolific?  Rating the hybrid based on a normal yield environment is important because it gives a better picture of how the hybrid responds – so how do growers analyze this?  Learning these tips will help growers understand what hybrids may be best for their farm based on population.

Episode 17: Western Bean Cutworm Scouting and Management

July 15, 2020

In this episode of the Rob-See-Co Field Ready podcast, host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager, sits down with Nate Meyer, Rob-See-Co Product Evaluation Lead, to discuss Western bean cutworm scouting and management. As we approach peak moth flight, Nate explains why we should care about Western bean cutworm and how it can affect corn yield. Nate shares what to look for in the field to identify it, and the damage the species can have if left untreated. Finally, Nate gives solutions and products to control the species.

Episode 16: Knee-high by the Fourth of July, and other “corn-isms”

July 1, 2020

Many of us have heard the phrase “Knee-high by the 4th of July” but how did it start and is it still relevant?  Tune in to this episode and learn all about “corn-isms” from host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager, Wayne Fithian, Agronomy Manager at Rob-See-Co and Brenda Christensen, Marketing Manager at Rob-See-Co.  Brenda talks about her Dad using the phrase while driving by corn fields during family road trips but it actually dates back to 1874.  Why was it important and what did it mean?  Did you know there was a connection to baseball?  Listen in to the discussion and learn the meaning of this “corn-ism” and some others that you may not know.

Episode 15:  Corn Growth and Development/Nitrogen Uptake

June 15, 2020

Tune in to this episode of the Rob-See-Co Field Ready podcast when host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and his guest Wayne Fithian, Agronomy Manager at Rob-See-Co discuss the latest information on corn growth and development as well as nitrogen uptake.  Wayne gives an overview of corn’s rapid growth period and its needs during this period.   Wayne explains how you can observe plant growth, what happens during reproductive states in terms of nitrogen uptake and how can growers make nitrogen last longer.  Finally, Jim and Wayne give tips on what farmers can do right now to put themselves in the best position for later in the season.

Episode 14: Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) 

June 1, 2020

In this episode Rob-See-Co Field Ready podcast host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and his guest Matthew Farrell, Director of Farm Program Services at K·Coe Isom discuss the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) Relief Package – what it is and why it came about.  The USDA created this program with money from the CARES act to give producers who were directly impacted by price reductions some relief from the impact of COVID-19.  Farrell, a resident expert on CFAP, shares the details about who is eligible, what constitutes a loss and how the livestock programs work, as well as how to apply and where to find more information.

Episode 13: Making Replant Decisions in Corn

May 15, 2020

Tune in to hear Rob-See-Co Field Ready podcast host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and guest Jacob Foley, Rob-See-Co Product Evaluation Lead talk about the factors that play the largest role in corn replant decisions.  What are common emergence problems growers may run into?  How do soil conditions impact the decision?  Are there ways to reduce costs when replanting?  What can hurt your stand count, affect stand establishment and how to evaluate a stand field-wide?  What is a grower’s yield potential based on planting dates?  Get the answers to these questions and more in today’s podcast and make the best replant decision for your farm.

Episode 12: Innovations in Corn  & Soybeans with Guest Harry Stine

May 1, 2020

In this episode Rob-See-Co Field Ready Podcast host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and guest Harry Stine, CEO Stine Seed Company, discuss the history of corn & soybean innovations and what we can expect in the future.  In the past there were few soybeans grown in the U.S. and soybeans yielded 32 bushels per acre.  Now we have 70 million acres per year in the U.S. and the yield is up to 80 or 90 bushels per acre.  Times have changed.  Listen as Harry and Jim discuss maximizing return on investment, the next generation of innovations, and developments in herbicides, pesticides and the traits that have made it possible to get higher yields, healthier crops and plant large acreages while managing pest/weed risks.

Special Episode: COVID-19’s Affect on Growers and the 2020 Planting Season

April 17, 2020

In this special episode, host Jim Robinson, Corn & Soybean Product Manager at Rob-See-Co, and guest Craig Frenzen, a grower in Fullerton, NE and also a Business Associate for Rob-See-Co, discuss how COVID-19 has impacted families, the ag market, and farming operations.  Listen in as they cover the consequences of lower commodity and cattle prices, possible effects on supply chain, changes in working with vendors, and how plans for the future may be impacted. Jim also shares information gathered from national supply chain sources on how they’re adapting their services for the local ag communities.

Episode 11: Independent Seed Companies - Speed Boats Among Battleships

April 15, 2020

Tune in to this episode when Rob-See-Co Field Ready Podcast host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager talks to Todd Martin, CEO of the Independent Professional Seed Association (IPSA) about the history of independent seed companies, the current state of the industry, and how he sees the business changing in the future.  Farmers appreciate the relationships and simplicity of an independent seed company, as well as their focus and expertise in finding the best products for specific geographies. These companies are nimble and with the market always changing, this is an important benefit for growers.

Episode 10: Sudden Death Syndrome in Soybeans

April 1, 2020

In this episode host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and guest Lance Goettsch, Product Evaluation Lead at Rob-See-Co, discuss Sudden Death Syndrome in soybeans - the cause, disease cycle, risk factors and ways to manage the disease.  This disease can impact soybean yield by 50% or more, so it is vital to understand how to identify SDS and manage risk through practices such as field selection and seed selection, especially in states with a higher predominance of corn and soybean rotation.  Tune in to learn how to reduce your risk for Sudden Death Syndrome before planting season begins.

Episode 09: Soybean Planting Dates for Higher Yields

March 15, 2020

Tune in to this episode as host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and guest Nate Meyer, Product Evaluation Lead at Rob-See-Co discuss how yield is impacted by soybean planting dates.  These experts discuss the benefits of planting early such as gaining 3-5 bushels per acre, gaining more stems per node, and being quicker to canopy. They also discussed some risks and how to minimize them based on frost date, seed treatment, and starting with a clean field that’s ready to be planted.  Learn the facts about early soybean planting and how to best maximize profitability and yield.

Episode 08: Corn Planting Dates for Higher Yields

March 1, 2020

What are the benefits and risks of planting corn early? How is yield impacted based on your planting date? In this episode host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn &Soybean Product Manager and guest Jacob Foley, Product Evaluation Lead at Rob-See-Co answer these questions and discuss topics such as finding the sweet spot of relative maturity,understanding how soil temperatures and moisture levels affect planting time, as well as why pollination weather is so important. Tune in to this episode to learn the factors that should be considered when planting corn so you are ready for the upcoming corn planting season.

Episode 07: Learning from Your Farm

Feb 15, 2020

On this episode host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and guest Wayne Fithian, Agronomy Manager at Rob-See-Co, give an overview of the different practices’ growers can implement to learn more about their farm.  It’s important to do multiple comparisons to get the most thorough and reliable information. Jim and Wayne discuss best practices for tests such as Genetic Strip Trials, Split Planters, Trait Package Comparisons, Soybean Seed Treatments and Seeding Rates.  What to measure, how to measure, what are real statistical differences and how to determine ROI are all covered in this enlightening episode.

Episode 06: Corn Rootworm Beetle Monitoring Project Results

February 1, 2020

On this week’s podcast host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager and guest Wayne Fithian, Agronomy Manager at Rob-See-Co, discuss and analyze the results of Rob-See-Co’s Corn Rootworm Beetle Project that was conducted in 2019.  The goals of the project were to help customers understand the number of Beetles in their fields, predict CRW pressure for 2020 and to measure the advantage of Agrisure Duracade.  Trap project observations provided cooperators with documentation of corn rootworm beetles flight during pollination, which coincided with timing of trap deployment. Listen in to learn the results of the study as well as where you can go to get a more detailed look at the study.

Episode 05: The Challenges and Opportunities for Young Farmers in 2020

January 15, 2020

These days most farmers are older and nearing retirement age but there are some younger people who are choosing to carry on their family legacy.  This week on the Rob-See-Co Field Ready Podcast host Jim Robinson, Rob-See-Co Corn & Soybean Product Manager talks to one of those younger farmers.  Andrew Neujahr farms out of Waverly, NE and has his own operation, but still works closely with his Dad and Uncle who are farming land his grandfather began farming in 1956.

Listen as Andrew discusses his biggest challenges in starting his own operation, the additional revenue sources that are available to him, the digital tools that he uses to run efficiently, and his advice to students and younger farmers just starting out.

2019 Episode Archive