AcresUSA: Tractor Time

Latest Episodes:

Dr. Christine Jones - The Liquid Carbon Pathway and Common Mycorrhizal Networks Ep. 63 Jun 30, 2025

Show notes

Join us as we delve into the transformative insights of Dr. Christine Jones, who explores the intricate relationships between plant diversity, soil health, and sustainable agriculture. This throwback Eco-Ag Keynote begins with a heartfelt tribute to Dr. Phil Callahan, a pioneer in agricultural knowledge, and transitions into Dr. Jones's in-depth discussion on the importance of green plants, mycorrhizall networks, and the liquid carbon pathway in creating healthy, resilient soils. Learn about groundbreaking experiments and real-world applications that reveal how increasing plant diversity can lead to greater soil carbon and nitrogen levels, improved drought tolerance, and overall healthier ecosystems. Whether you're a farmer, gardener, or agricultural enthusiast, this episode provides valuable knowledge on building nutrient-dense food systems through regenerative practices.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Access Eco-Ag 2024 Recordings: https://conference.eco-ag.com/24recordings

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

Beyond the Conventional: A Deep Dive into Regenerative Farming with Will Harris and Melissa Norris Ep. 62 Jun 23, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Acres USA podcast, host Taylor Henry is joined by Author Melissa Norris to interview Will Harris of White Oak Pastures. They delve into the complexities of pesticide immunity laws, discussing how pesticide companies seek protection from liabilities despite evidence of harmful consequences. Will shares his journey from conventional to regenerative farming, the economic challenges involved, and the importance of transparency and education in sustainable agriculture. Additionally, they touch on the significant role that federal subsidies play in the farming industry, the disparity between industrial and regenerative farming, and the vital need for consumer awareness and education.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Access Eco-Ag 2024 Recordings: https://conference.eco-ag.com/24recordings

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

Melissa Norris’s Website: https://melissaknorris.com/

White Oak Pastures Website: https://whiteoakpastures.com/

Monte Bottens: Bridging Generations in Farming Innovation Ep. 61 Jun 16, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of ‘The Acres U.S.A. Podcast’ Taylor Henry sits down with Monte Bottens, a fifth-generation Illinois farmer who manages over 2000 acres and operates multiple agricultural businesses. Monty discusses his journey from conventional farming to regenerative practices, his ventures such as Ag Solutions Network and the insights he gained from his experiences in both Illinois and California. Learn about the challenges and successes in soil health improvement, integrating livestock, direct-to-consumer sales, and the potential of virtual fencing. This episode is filled with valuable tips and stories for anyone interested in sustainable and profitable farming practices.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Access Eco-Ag 2024 Recordings: https://conference.eco-ag.com/24recordings

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

Bottens Family Farms Website: https://www.bottens.com/

Ranching Reinvented: Innovations in Sustainable Agriculture with Joel Hollingsworth Ep. 60 Jun 09, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Acres U.S.A. Podcast host Taylor Henry dives deep into the world of sustainable and regenerative farming practices, with a special focus on the economic challenges and innovative solutions within the industry. Joined by Joel Hollingsworth, owner of Smoke River Ranch, the conversation explores a multitude of topics—from the intricacies of herd share programs and the macroeconomic impacts of trade policies to advanced high-density grazing techniques and the transformative potential of nutrient-dense food production. Joel shares his unique approach to transitioning traditional ranches to regenerative systems, shedding light on how economic viability can be achieved through community-supported herds and adaptive grazing practices. Learn about the importance of supporting tariffs to address trade imbalances, the role of hard money and asset diversification, and the exciting advances in nutrient testing technology that promise to revolutionize the agricultural sector. Don't miss this insightful discussion packed with practical advice, visionary perspectives, and actionable steps for both producers and consumers committed to a sustainable farming future.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Access Eco-Ag 2024 Recordings: https://conference.eco-ag.com/24recordings

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

‘Soil and Money’ Article: https://www.theamericantribune.news/p/soil-and-money

Smoke River Ranch Website: https://www.smokeriverranch.com/

Homesteading Wisdom: Sean and Beth Dougherty's Journey Ep. 59 Jun 02, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Acres U.S.A. podcast, host Taylor Henry sits down with homesteaders Sean and Beth Dougherty to discuss their journey into regenerative farming and sustainable living. Tune in as they share their experiences from starting on 'junk' land to creating a thriving farm that produces 90-95% of their food. Learn about the principles that have guided their success, the books and authors who inspired them, and the practical tips for homesteading, including livestock management and ecosystem-based farming. Whether you're an aspiring homesteader or simply curious about sustainable agriculture, this conversation offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Access Eco-Ag 2024 Recordings: https://conference.eco-ag.com/24recordings

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

‘The Independent Farmstead”: https://bookstore.acresusa.com/products/independent-farmstead?_pos=1&_sid=7b771d85a&_ss=r

Brix, Bones, and Better Beef with Dr. Will Winter and Steve Campbell Ep. 58 May 26, 2025

Show notes

Join us in this episode of The Acres U.S.A. Podcast, hosted by Taylor Henry, as we dive deep into sustainable farming and regenerative agricultural practices with renowned experts Steve Campbell and Dr. Will Winter. Steve shares his journey from ranching in Idaho to discovering the transformative effects of nutrition and grass finishing on livestock. Will recounts his evolution from conventional livestock practices in Kansas to founding a holistic veterinary practice. They cover a wide array of topics, including the importance of mineralization, the impact of diet on livestock health, grass finishing techniques, and the role of biological stimulants in improving soil fertility. Be prepared to learn invaluable insights on how to increase the productivity and sustainability of your farming practices. This episode also includes practical advice for young farmers and the significance of niche markets in modern agriculture. Don't miss out on these conversations if you are serious about taking your farming practices to the next level!

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Access Eco-Ag 2024 Recordings: https://conference.eco-ag.com/24recordings

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

Dr. Winter’s Website: https://www.willwinter.com/

Steve Campbell’s “Tailor Made Cattle”: https://www.tailormadecattle.com/

https://eco-farming.com/viroquaevent

Farm Weird: Embracing Unconventional Ag Practices with Jason Mauck Ep. 57 May 19, 2025

Show notes

Join Taylor Henry, owner and CEO of Acres U.S.A., as he interviews Jason Mauck on the latest episode of The Acres U.S.A. Podcast. This in-depth conversation covers sustainable farming, regenerative practices, and innovative agricultural techniques like relay cropping, using livestock for in-crop grazing, and adapting crop systems for economic resilience. Jason shares his unique approaches to farming, including integrating cattle grazing into crop production and maximizing crop yield with strategic soil management. The episode also previews the upcoming Acres U.S.A. “Farm Weird” Field Day at Jason's farm in Gaston, Indiana on June 21st, featuring speakers John Kemp, Gary Zimmer, and Jason Mauck himself. Don't miss this insightful episode as they explore modern eco-agricultural practices and the future of sustainable farming.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Access Eco-Ag 2024 Recordings: https://conference.eco-ag.com/24recordings

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

Cover Crops and Diversity: A Conversation with Keith Burns Ep. 56 May 12, 2025

Show notes

Join host Taylor Henry on this episode of The Acres U.S.A. Podcast, as he engages in a deep dive into cover cropping and ecological agriculture with Keith Burns, the owner and founder of Green Cover Seed. Hear about Keith's journey from conventional farming to a focus on multi-species cover crop mixes, the benefits of diverse plantings, and how innovative practices can help improve soil health and resilience. Keith also discusses practical strategies for integrating cover crops, the value of biological soil health, and the potential future of ecological agriculture.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Access Eco-Ag 2024 Recordings: https://conference.eco-ag.com/24recordings

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

Green Cover Seed Website: https://store.greencover.com/

Farm to Market: Helen Atthowe's Success in Sustainable Agriculture Ep. 55 May 05, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to the Acres U.S.A. Podcast, hosted by Taylor Henry. In this episode, Taylor is joined by Helen Atthowe, the author of 'The Ecological Farm.' Helen discusses her journey in organic farming, her inspirations, and innovative farming techniques including selective mowing and mulching with perennial species. The conversation also covers the importance of mineral balancing, pest suppression, and creating habitats for beneficial insects in an orchard setting. Helen provides insights into her transition to a semi-retired life, ongoing farm experiments, and her dedication to learning and adapting sustainable farming practices. For anyone interested in sustainable and regenerative farming, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical advice.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Access Eco-Ag 2024 Recordings: https://conference.eco-ag.com/24recordings

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

‘The Ecological Farm’ - https://bookstore.acresusa.com/products/the-ecological-farm?_pos=3&_sid=c73ee27eb&_ss=r

The Business of Beef: Flipping the Script on Cull Cows with Jordan Green Ep. 53 Apr 21, 2025

Show notes

Join Taylor Henry, owner and CEO of Acres U.S.A., in an intriguing conversation with Jordan Green, founder of Farm Builder and a leading expert in practical, scalable livestock farming. Discover the innovative approach of Jordan’s cull cow program, where undervalued cull cows are transformed into high-quality beef, even amidst rising cattle prices. Learn how Jordan applies the 'sell-buy' mindset to maximize profitability and sustainability in farming, and gain practical tips on managing cull cows, marketing ground beef, and navigating the economics of regenerative agriculture. This episode is packed with valuable insights for farmers looking to optimize their operations and embrace regenerative practices.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Access Eco-Ag 2024 Recordings: https://conference.eco-ag.com/24recordings

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

Jordan’s Farm Website: https://farmbuilder.us/

‘Farrow to Finish & Marketing School 2025’ Event (Use Code: ACRES to get $50 off) or use this link: https://farmbuild.us/discount/Acres?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Ffarrow-to-finish-marketing-school%3Fvariant%3D15997507371079