In this episode of the Feed & Grain Podcast, Steven Kilger sits down with Aimee Andres, executive director of Inland Rivers, Ports and Terminals (IRPT), to discuss a groundbreaking memorandum of understanding signed with the European Federation of Inland Ports. Together, they explore how this partnership aims to modernize inland waterway freight, expand commercial opportunities, and accelerate knowledge-sharing between the U.S. and Europe. From infrastructure innovations and marketing strategies to sustainability and cybersecurity, Aimee shares what the U.S. can learn from Europe, and vice versa, to strengthen our inland waterways and support the grain industry. Tune in to hear how these efforts could improve transportation efficiency, reduce congestion, and boost economic value for farmers, shippers and communities nationwide.

In this episode of the Feed & Grain Podcast, host Steven Kilger interviews grant specialists who’ve secured over $500 million for industry clients. VAA's Brian Hinrichs and Miranda Braatz share insider knowledge on navigating the complex world of government funding, from PIDP grants to state-level opportunities. They reveal how to leverage public-private partnerships, avoid common application pitfalls, and strategically position projects for approval. Learn why proper timing, thorough preparation, and telling your project’s story effectively can make the difference between rejection and receiving millions in funding. Essential listening for any feed or grain operation considering facility upgrades, expansions or modernization projects.

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 COFCO 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.