In this episode of the Modern Farming Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Stella Brownlee, soil scientist and founder of RootLogic Ag Consulting. With more than a decade of hands-on research and field experience in soil fertility, plant nutrition, plant physiology, microbiology, and water management, Dr. Brownlee brings both science and strategy to the conversation. This is not theory. This is practical application farmers can take back to their fields. Dr. Brownlee shares how growers can move beyond guesswork and reactive decision-making and instead implement structured, strategic soil health and nutrient management systems that increase both yield and quality. She explains why thriving farms are built from the soil up and how regenerative principles can strengthen profitability, resilience, and long-term sustainability. A key focus of the episode is the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship: • Right Source • Right Rate • Right Time • Right Place She breaks down how these four principles, when applied correctly, reduce waste, improve nutrient efficiency, and ultimately support healthier crops and stronger returns. We also discuss: • The connection between soil microbiology and plant performance • Why water management is inseparable from nutrient strategy • How soil testing should guide decisions, not confirm them • What regenerative really means in practical, measurable terms • The mindset shift required for farmers to truly thrive Dr. Brownlee’s approach is rooted in data, discipline, and long-term thinking. Her work through RootLogic Ag Consulting helps producers build systems that are proactive instead of reactive, profitable instead of patchwork. If you care about soil health, crop performance, and building a farm that lasts for generations, this conversation will challenge and equip you. Follow Dr. Stella Brownlee: Instagram: @stella_brownlee_ Facebook: Stella Brownlee

🎙️ Episode 209 In this episode of the Modern Farming Podcast, Kris and Tara sit down with Maralee Thompson, Forever Miss Winter Haven and founder of the community service initiative Grow Together, to talk about how agriculture can be a powerful solution in the fight against food insecurity. Maralee is a Public Relations major at the University of Florida who is using her platform in both pageantry and student government to advocate for agriculture education and sustainable food systems. Through her initiative, Grow Together, Maralee is working to empower communities with the tools and knowledge needed to grow their own food through hands-on gardening education. Her work focuses on increasing access to fresh produce while teaching individuals and families how agriculture can create long term food security in their own backyards. Maralee shares how she: Turned her passion for agriculture into a service initiative focused on fighting food insecurity Uses pageantry as a platform for advocacy and education Integrates leadership opportunities at the University of Florida into real world agricultural outreach Inspires young people to see gardening and food production as both empowerment and community service Builds partnerships that make agriculture education more accessible to underserved communities The conversation highlights the growing role of youth leadership in agriculture and how initiatives like Grow Together are helping bridge the gap between education and action when it comes to community based food systems. From the stage to the garden, Maralee is proving that advocacy rooted in agriculture can make a meaningful impact at the local level. Learn More & Connect: Grow Together https://www.instagram.com/grow.together.fl Maralee Thompson https://www.instagram.com/maraleethompsonofficial

Modern Farming Podcast – Episode 208 Raising the Next Generation: Youth Voices from the Florida State Fair In this special episode, we traveled to the Florida State Fair to spotlight the next generation of agricultural leaders. We sat down with dedicated 4H and FFA youth livestock exhibitors who are learning responsibility, leadership, and lifelong skills through hands-on experience in agriculture. This episode is a powerful reminder that the future of farming is in capable hands. Episode Highlights Jacob Zinkhan Jacob shares how he was introduced to livestock through his school’s FFA program and how that experience opened the door to working with animals. He introduces us to Feta, the heifer he is proudly showing this season, and explains the daily commitment required to properly care for and prepare a show animal. Morgan Houston Morgan reflects on her years in 4H, where she has shown rabbits, steers, and heifers. She discusses the responsibility, discipline, and confidence she has developed through her projects and how 4H has helped shape both her character and future aspirations. Tyler Pace – Hardee County Cattlemen’s Sweetheart Tyler talks about her steer Bruiser, a 1,200+ pound Angus cross she is exhibiting at her local fair. She shares how participating in pageants has strengthened her public speaking skills and confidence, and why educating the public about agriculture is a responsibility she takes seriously as an ambassador for the industry. Teagan Teagan joins us to talk about her two breeding does, Messy and Nelly. Now in her fourth year of showing, she shares what she has learned through consistency and dedication to her project animals. Reagan also speaks passionately about advocating for agriculture and why it is important for young people to tell the true story of farming and livestock production. Jacob Gable Jacob introduces his Brangus-Simmental cross he is exhibiting and shares how FFA has impacted his life beyond the show ring. He speaks about community service through FFA and how the organization builds leadership, service-mindedness, and a strong work ethic. Why This Episode Matters These young exhibitors represent more than ribbons and trophies. They represent discipline, stewardship, and a deep respect for agriculture. Through 4H and FFA, they are developing the skills and character needed to lead in their communities and carry agriculture forward. Tune in to hear directly from these impressive young agriculturalists and be encouraged by their dedication to preserving and promoting the agricultural way of life.