Agweek Podcast

Randy Koenen of Red River Farm Network and Randy Martinson of Martinson Ag Risk Management discuss what appears to be the calm before the storm on the Agweek Market Wrap. 

This week on AgweekTV, we'll tell you about a new wheat breeding program started by a longtime North Dakota grain company. We'll take a look at how federal funding freezing are impacting farmers in our communities. Calving season can be a stressful time of year. We'll see how one company could ease that stress. And several businesses join forces to show students about the many career opportunities in ag.  

This week on AgweekTV, a group of senators looks to provide some certainty for farmers about water issues. Farmers get some advice and information about the upcoming planting season. We visit Twin Eagle Dairy, home of the Minnesota milk producers of the year. And a popular seed library opens its doors for the season.

Randy Koenen of Red River Farm Network and Randy Martinson of Martinson Ag Risk Management discuss the impact of on-again and off-again tariffs on the Agweek Market Wrap on Friday, March 7, 2025.

This week on AgweekTV, our livestock tour continues with a look at a ranch that sells beef directly to consumers. Organic farm groups wait for word about federal funding cuts. We take a look at the current state of the cattle market and if producers can expect to see those prices sticking around. And North Dakota FFA gets its biggest financial boost ever. We'll tell you how they plan to spend it.

Randy Koenen of Red River Farm Network and Randy Martinson of Martinson Ag Risk Management discuss the concern of oncoming tariffs on the markets on the Agweek Market Wrap. 

Fargo, ND based Resurgent Health is bringing a new philosophy on healthcare Contact Resurgent Health: at their website, Facebook Page or by phone (701) 599-3950 An episode summary: Introduction and Direct Primary Care Explanation (0:00 - 6:38) The Ag Week podcast host, Al Winmill, introduces Aly Dahl and Kristine Martens from Resurgent Health, a direct primary care clinic in Fargo. They begin by explaining the concept of direct primary care, emphasizing that it's a membership-based model rather than insurance-driven. Patients pay a monthly fee for unlimited access to their providers, including in-person visits, phone calls, text messages, and virtual appointments. This model aims to foster stronger patient-provider relationships and provide more personalized care. They contrast this with the traditional insurance-based system, where providers often have limited time per patient due to reimbursement rates and are incentivized to see more patients to generate revenue. They highlight that their model allows for longer, more focused visits, and they are motivated to keep patients healthy rather than just treating them when they're sick. The transparency of their pricing, with no surprise bills, is also a key benefit. They state that the system is more convenient for patients, especially those with busy lifestyles, as much of the care can be delivered remotely. Direct Primary Care and Agriculture (6:38 - 10:26) The conversation shifts to the suitability of direct primary care for those in agriculture. Dahl and Martens explain that their model is particularly beneficial for farmers and ranchers due to its convenience and accessibility. They acknowledge that farmers often work long hours, especially during planting and harvest seasons, and may not have time for traditional doctor's appointments. Direct access to providers via phone, text, and virtual visits allows farmers to receive care without leaving their work. They also emphasize that their model is more proactive, focusing on preventative care rather than a reactionary approach. They discuss the economic benefits of direct primary care for agricultural businesses, noting that it can be a more affordable alternative to traditional health insurance, especially for small businesses struggling to offer comprehensive benefits. They are now offering their services as a benefit for small businesses. They believe that offering direct primary care can help attract and retain employees by providing them with access to quality healthcare. Health Challenges Faced by Farmers (10:26 - 13:09) The guests then discuss the unique health challenges faced by farmers and ranchers. They highlight musculoskeletal injuries as a common issue due to the physically demanding nature of their work. They explain that they focus on healing the body from the inside out and that Dr. Martens offers osteopathic manipulation techniques to help with pain management. They also address the high levels of stress experienced by farmers due to market fluctuations, weather conditions, and other factors. They acknowledge that many farmers self-medicate with alcohol or ignore their health issues altogether. They emphasize their commitment to being there for their patients during challenging times and helping them maintain their health. Addressing Stress and Osteopathic Manipulation (13:09 - 14:58) The discussion returns to the stress experienced by farmers, and the doctors reiterate that seeking medical care shouldn't add to that stress. They emphasize the flexibility of their scheduling, allowing for virtual visits or rescheduling without long waits. Dr. Martens elaborates on osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), a hands-on technique she offers. She explains that it's a gentle approach, combining elements of massage and chiropractic, aimed at aligning the body and promoting natural healing. OMT can be beneficial for various pain syndromes, migraines, and even GI issues. She notes that Resurgent Health is currently the only clinic in the area offering this service. Nutrition and Individualized Care (15:16 - 18:38) The conversation shifts to nutrition, with the doctors acknowledging that farmers often have healthier eating habits than city dwellers. They stress the importance of individualized dietary advice, recognizing the unique challenges faced by farmers who work long hours and have varying schedules. They explain that they don't believe in rigid dietary restrictions or "check-box" approaches, instead focusing on making small, sustainable changes based on each patient's lifestyle and needs. They give an example of working with a farmer who drinks a lot of Mountain Dew, suggesting a gradual reduction rather than complete elimination. They emphasize that generic nutritional advice is difficult because individual circumstances vary greatly. Practical Health Tips and Prioritizing Care (18:39 - 21:22) The doctors offer practical health tips for farmers and ranchers, particularly emphasizing the importance of preventative care and addressing the reluctance of men to seek medical attention. They cite a study predicting a significant increase in men's cancer rates by 2050 and urge men to prioritize their health. They highlight the convenience and personalized care offered by Resurgent Health, encouraging listeners to consider their model as a more comfortable and accessible alternative to traditional healthcare. They reiterate that the current healthcare system, not the providers, is often the source of frustration and that their model allows them to provide the kind of patient-centered care they believe in. Learning More and Scheduling Consultations (21:22 - 22:41) Winmill about how listeners can learn more about Resurgent Health. The doctors direct them to their website, resurgenthealth.net, and highlight their offer of free "meet and greets." They emphasize that these consultations are no-obligation and provide an opportunity to meet the doctors and learn more about their services. They also mention that they offer after-hours consultations on Monday evenings and Friday mornings, in addition to regular weekday appointments, to accommodate busy schedules. Concluding Remarks and Gratitude (22:43 - 22:58) The podcast concludes with Winmill expressing gratitude to Aly Dahl and Kristine Martens for sharing their insights and the story of Resurgent Health. Winmill commends the clinic for its innovative approach to healthcare and find their work inspiring. Winmill expresses hope for future conversations with the doctors. Dahl and Martens reciprocate the thanks, expressing their appreciation for the opportunity to share their message.

This week on AgweekTV, we're talking renewable fuels at the Evolution Ag Summit in Jamestown, North Dakota. We'll see how a freeze in federal money is affecting some farm programs. The North Dakota Supreme Court makes a decision that could affect ag water projects across the state. And a Midwest author writes a series of children's books about life as a ranch dog.  

Agweek Podcast host, Al Winmill, recently had the chance to chat with Nate Schlief of the Greater Grand Forks Farm Toy Show about their upcoming 4th Annual show in Grand Forks, ND. Nate shared information about the show, located at the Alerus Center, March 28-29, along with his history in the farm toy hobby, how the show started and more.  Learn more about the 4th Annual Greater Grand Forks Farm Toy Show at Nate's preferred communication platform, their public Facebook Group: Greater Grand Forks Farm Toy Show Here's a link to the Alerus Center's write up on the show: https://www.aleruscenter.com/events/detail/3rd-annual-grand-forks-farm-toy-show-1 Here's a summary of the episode:  Show Origins and Initial Planning (0:00 - 2:14) Al Winmill welcomes Nate Schlief, organizer of the Greater Grand Forks Farm Toy Show, to the Ag Week podcast. Schlief discusses his lifelong passion for farm toys and the inspiration behind starting the show. He explains that the decline of farm toy shows in smaller North Dakota towns, combined with his son's participation in national shows, led to the idea. He partnered with a friend and his wife, choosing the Alerus Center due to its accessibility for vendors. Their initial plan was to have 50-60 vendor tables. Show Growth and Vendor Collaboration (2:15 - 4:47) Schlief  details the show's growth, noting that they aimed for a March date to avoid overlap with other shows and to accommodate their shared vendor base. The first year saw 65 tables, and the show has since grown to around 100 tables, even turning vendors away due to space limitations. He highlights the community support and nostalgia for past local toy shows, emphasizing the show's role in connecting people with a shared hobby. He also mentions the possibility of a future show in Bismarck. Vendor Diversity and Display Highlights (4:48 - 6:20) The discussion shifts to the variety of vendors at the show. Schlief describes the range of merchandise, including farm toys, clothing, literature, and steel signs, and mentions unique vendors like one selling goat milk products. He notes the trading and selling among vendors and attendees, and highlights the display of collections, such as a Big Bud tractor display and handcrafted versatile tractors. Interactive Exhibits and Community Engagement (6:21 - 10:03) Schlief describes unique exhibits, including 3D printers and NDSU's Department of Ag Engineering. He emphasizes the addition of a kids' play area with a corn-filled pool and toys, and a designated space for remote-controlled semi tractors and bulldozers. He discusses the farm toy displays, noting they are not yet judged, and shares tips on creating displays using affordable materials. He highlights the show's Facebook page and the Toy Farmer magazine as resources for hobbyists. Information Sharing and Community Impact (10:03 - 11:18) Schlief explains how information about the hobby is shared, including through their Facebook page, the Toy Farmer magazine, and word-of-mouth. He highlights the show's positive impact on the Grand Forks community, attracting visitors who stay in hotels and eat at local restaurants. He notes the significant increase in vendor bookings, from the initial 65 tables to approximately 120 currently. Future Growth and Audience Diversification (11:20 - 18:00) Looking ahead, Schlief discusses the show's potential for further growth, referencing the large regional show in Sioux Falls. He emphasizes the importance of attracting younger generations to the hobby, highlighting the educational and imaginative aspects of playing with farm toys. He acknowledges the diverse interests of attendees, from casual enthusiasts to serious collectors. He reiterates the goal of creating an entry point for younger individuals to engage with the hobby and continue its legacy. Nostalgia and the Evolving Hobby (18:00 - 20:30) Schlief emphasizes the nostalgic aspect of the farm toy hobby, sharing his own childhood memories of receiving toy combines and the joy of being able to purchase those same toys as an adult. He highlights the hobby's evolution, noting the blend of traditional craftsmanship (like brass and soldering) with modern techniques (such as 3D printing). He expresses admiration for the genuine, down-to-earth people involved in the hobby, which he considers a major draw. Vendor Information and Contact (20:30 - 22:15) Winmill inquires about vendor registration. Schlief directs potential vendors to the "Grand Forks Farm Toy Show" Facebook page and provides the contact information for his partner, Mike Ratty (218-791-5818). He clarifies that there is no charge for displaying farm toy collections, only for vendors selling merchandise. Show Dates, Times, and Attendance Information (22:15 - 23:30) Schlief provides the show's dates and times: Friday, March 28th, from noon to 7 p.m., and Saturday, March 29th, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks. He encourages attendees to check the show's Facebook page for updates and raffle information. Concluding Remarks and Well Wishes (23:30 - 23:58) Winmill thanks Schlief for sharing his passion and information about the show, wishing him a successful event and continued growth. Schlief expresses his appreciation for the opportunity to be on the podcast. <!--> --><!--> --> <!--> --><!--> --><!--> --><!--> --> <!--> --> <!--> --><!--> --> <!--> --> <!--> --><!--> --> <!--> --><!--> --><!--> --> <!--> --> <!--> -->

Randy Koenen of Red River Farm Network and Randy Martinson of Martinson Ag Risk Management discuss what's giving strength to grains this week on the Agweek Market Wrap.