Episode Description: Agriculture leaders cannot afford to think only about this quarter. Steve Olson, co-founder of the Next Five Years Executive Conference, explains why the smartest organizations are already planning for the next five years - and why that shift could determine who stays relevant and who falls behind.
Ag Innovation News Presented by AURI
Episode Description: Unlock the future of plant-based proteins with PURIS VP of R&D, Kushal Shandak. In this episode, discover how a 40-year journey from soy to peas is reshaping the alternative protein industry—and learn the secret to overcoming technical challenges like solubility, allergen safety, and acidic stability. Shandak shares how Purist’s innovative, vertically integrated model is making pea protein more accessible, sustainable, and tastier than ever, paving the way for the next wave of consumer-loved plant-based foods. Explore the podcast
Episode Description: In this episode of AURI Ag Innovation News, discover how a Minnesota-based collaboration between industry leaders ignited a new pathway for food entrepreneurs to scale nationally. Lauren Pradhan, CEO of Tesor Advisory, and Jason Robinson, Food Business Development at AURI, walk us through the strategic magic of blending community, storytelling, and retail expertise to unlock new markets. From behind-the-scenes event design to the power of authentic connection, this is about turning dreams into shelf-ready reality. Click here to watch the interview.
Episode Description: In this episode, Jamie Dickerman interviews Gail Dennison from the Hormel Institute to explore how research at the intersection of food, agriculture, and health can shape the future of nutrition and disease prevention. They discuss the Institute's history, ongoing projects, and the importance of making healthy eating accessible and convenient.
Episode Description: In this episode, Alex Frescoln, an Avisen attorney with a background in ag and food markets, discusses the evolving landscape of value-added agriculture, startup challenges, and the future of bioenergy and manufacturing in the Midwest.
Episode Description: Unlock the future of sustainable food with a deep dive into Minnesota’s pioneering plant protein innovation. Discover how the University of Minnesota’s Plant Protein Innovation Center (PPIC) is transforming local crops like dry beans and kidney beans into game-changing protein sources — crucial for feeding a global population projected to reach 10 billion. This episode reveals the secret sauce behind PPIC’s global leadership in plant-based research, industry collaboration, and workforce development, all from right here in Minnesota.
Episode Description: The future of agriculture in the Midwest hinges on more than just farming — it’s about resilience, innovation, and smart policy. Holly Callaghan from GreenSeam reveals how a groundbreaking industry report uncovers critical trends affecting rural prosperity, from shifting business sentiments to the vital role of sustainability and policy adjustments. If you’re passionate about food, ag tech, or rural development, this episode will show you how regional insights can inspire smarter investments and legislative action to keep agriculture thriving for another 150 years. Discover how GreenSeam’s annual State of the Agricultural Ecosystem report paints a nuanced picture: despite ongoing challenges like rising input costs and a faint decline in optimism, the sector remains remarkably resilient. Holly shares specific trends, including a surprising stabilization in business growth, the importance of collaboration with organizations like AURI, and the urgent need for targeted policy reforms. The report highlights that agriculture accounts for 15 percent of Minnesota’s economy and nearly 10 percent of jobs — making its health essential for broader economic stability.
Episode Description: In this episode of the Ag Innovation News podcast, host Jamie Dickerman speaks with Devin Hoffarth from the Minnesota Corn Growers Association about the current priorities and developments in the corn industry. They discuss the importance of market development, new uses for corn, and the collaboration with AURI to support innovation. The conversation highlights the versatility of corn as a feedstock and the exciting future opportunities in bio-based chemicals and ethanol markets.
Episode Description: Unlock the transformative power of the Future Farmers of America — the organization shaping tomorrow’s leaders (not just farmers!) in agriculture today. Whether you're a parent, educator, or community supporter, discover how just one opportunity can ignite confidence, leadership, and innovation in youth. If you’ve ever wondered how agricultural education develops problem solvers and future-ready workers, this episode reveals exactly how FFA’s unique classroom and hands-on experiences plant seeds for lifelong success. Val Arsvold, the visionary behind Minnesota’s FFA Foundation, shares her inspiring journey from shy farm kid to champion of youth empowerment. She unveils the core of what makes FFA more than just an organization — a movement that fosters leadership, community service, and career readiness across rural and urban communities alike.
Episode Description: In this episode of the Ag Innovation News podcast, host Jamie Dickerman speaks with Shannon Schlecht, the executive director of AURI, about the organization's impactful year in agriculture. They discuss AURI's structure, strategic initiatives, and the successes achieved in various projects, including biogas, industrial hemp, and protein sustainability. Shannon highlights the importance of collaboration and the new resources AURI is introducing to support food businesses, especially in navigating the challenges faced by the agricultural community.
