In this episode of the Feed & Grain Podcast, host Steven Kilger interviews Dr. William Wilson about his paper, “Dynamic changes in the structure and concentration of the international grain and oilseed trading industry,” and challenging the narrative of ABCD dominance in grain trading. Wilson explains how digitization and facility expansion have enabled new competitors to emerge, with Chinese firm Kafka and Russian traders gaining significant market share. The conversation explores how food security concerns are driving sovereign wealth funds to invest in trading companies, creating a “competitively fierce” landscape. Wilson predicts increased mergers, greater risk from climate change and logistical bottlenecks, and more government intervention in markets.

In this episode of the Feed & Grain Podcast, host Steven Kilger interviews Jonathan Medemblik marketing manager at Walinga, on GPS location matching systems for feed delivery trailers. The technology assigns unique GPS coordinates to each bin on a farm, then uses geofencing to ensure feed compartments in the trailer only unload at their assigned destinations. The system, which can be integrated into existing trailers and mill software, maintains delivery records while still allowing manual overrides when necessary, potentially preventing costly errors such as contaminating organic flocks or delivering medicated feed to the wrong animals.

In this episode of the Feed & Grain Podcast, host Steven Kilger interviews Greg Franzen and Mark Herbert from Faithful+Gould about best practices for construction projects in the feed and grain industry. The experts emphasize the importance of risk management, advising companies to maintain a simple yet comprehensive risk log involving the entire team. They also discuss strategies for maximizing value and protecting investments throughout the construction process. This informative conversation provides valuable insights for industry professionals planning new facilities or major renovations.

In this episode of the Feed & Grain Podcast, host Steven Kilger interviews Greg Franzen and Mark Herbert from Faithful+Gould, a global consulting firm specializing in agribusiness construction projects. The experts emphasize the importance of creating a comprehensive project charter to establish clear objectives and responsibilities. They also stress the value of documenting and implementing lessons learned from previous projects to improve efficiency and mitigate risks. The discussion provides valuable insights for feed manufacturers and grain handlers embarking on construction projects, highlighting the benefits of seeking outside expertise and maintaining thorough documentation throughout the process.

In this episode of the Feed & Grain Podcast, host Steven Kilger interviews Brett Buchanan, CFO of Bulk Conveyor Inc. (BCI), about their innovative use of QR code technology on equipment. Buchanan explains how this user-friendly system provides instant access to comprehensive information, including maintenance procedures, safety guidelines, and spare parts details. The technology aims to streamline operations, minimize downtime, and improve safety in processing facilities. Buchanan highlights the system's benefits for new employees and its potential for customization, such as maintaining safety logs. This forward-thinking approach demonstrates BCI's commitment to enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency in the grain handling and processing industry.

In this episode of the Feed & Grain Podcast, host Steven Kilger interviews Joe Mlynek from Safety Made Simple about their online safety training programs. Mlynek explains how their subscription-based service offers over 150 courses tailored for various agribusinesses, from small farms to large cooperatives. The company's approach focuses on engaging, interactive content delivered in 15-20 minute sessions, available in both English and Spanish. Mlynek highlights the program's compliance with OSHA regulations, easy tracking capabilities, and continuous improvement efforts. He also shares success stories of partners who have seen significant reductions in workplace incidents after implementing Safety Made Simple's training programs.

In this episode of the Feed & Grain Podcast, host Steven Kilger speaks with Chad Johnson, CEO and co-founder of Grain Weevil Corp, about their groundbreaking grain bin robot technology. Designed to eliminate the need for people to enter filled grain bins, the Grain Weevil robot aims to address one of the most dangerous aspects of grain handling and storage. Chad shares the story of how a father-son project evolved into a cutting-edge ag-tech startup, the challenges of building a robot for such a hazardous environment, and their mission of "no boots in the grain."

The conversation covers how this innovative robot, which uses auger-based propulsion, can level grain, break up crusts, and help optimize grain quality, all while keeping farmers and workers safely outside of bins. They also discuss the regulatory hurdles, production phases, and exciting progress in on-farm trials, along with the company’s plans for future commercialization.

In this episode of the Feed & Grain Podcast, host Steven Kilger interviews ABB's Brandon Canclini and Randall Sorrells about the latest developments in motor technology for the feed manufacturing and grain handling industries. The experts discuss new efficiency standards, the benefits of upgrading to IE4 and IE5 rated motors, and the importance of predictive maintenance using smart sensors. They also explore how integrated motor drives and improved reliability are shaping the future of industrial motors. This informative conversation provides valuable insights for industry professionals looking to enhance their operations and reduce downtime.