In this episode of The Germinate Podcast, host Joe Samson sits down with Tim Burenga of WorkSaver for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, resilience, faith, and what it truly takes to build and sustain a business through uncertain times.Tim shares candid reflections on growing up in a family business, witnessing firsthand the sacrifices and pressure his parents endured during challenging economic cycles. From long hours and financial strain to the quiet strength required to keep moving forward, Tim offers a deeply personal look at the realities behind entrepreneurship that rarely get discussed.The conversation explores how strong partnerships at home shape strong leaders at work, and why surrounding yourself with the right people, personally and professionally, is essential for long-term success. Joe and Tim also dive into the importance of process, habit-building, and accountability, particularly when navigating areas outside your expertise, like finance or operations.Throughout the episode, Tim speaks openly about the role of faith, humility, and community in leadership, emphasizing that growth doesn’t happen in isolation. The discussion also touches on the evolving role of industry organizations like FEMA, the value of collective knowledge, and why staying connected to the broader agricultural and manufacturing ecosystem matters now more than ever.This episode is an honest, thoughtful conversation about perseverance, purpose, and the human side of business, a reminder that progress often comes not from having all the answers, but from showing up consistently, learning as you go, and leaning on the people who walk alongside you.

In Part 2 of this year-in-review conversation on The Germinate Podcast, host Joe Samson continues the discussion with Tim Dunn and Mike Parsh, diving deeper into generational change, youth development, education, and the long-term implications for the workforce.The episode opens with a candid discussion about teenagers growing up in a world dominated by smartphones and constant feedback loops. The group reflects on how social media has fundamentally changed adolescence—amplifying self-awareness, comparison, anxiety, and pressure in ways previous generations never experienced. While teenage behavior may be universal across cultures, the immediacy and intensity of digital feedback has reshaped how young people see themselves and the world.From there, the conversation shifts toward faith and meaning. Joe shares observations from college football interviews where young athletes openly credit their faith, sparking a broader discussion about whether younger generations are searching for something more grounded amid cultural noise and uncertainty. While overall religious participation may be declining, the group explores the possibility that some young people are seeking truth, stability, and purpose in response to chaos rather than despite it.A significant portion of the episode focuses on education and accountability. Tim, speaking from decades of experience in education, describes how expectations in schools have changed—particularly around grading, deadlines, retakes, and consequences. The group debates whether current systems truly prepare students for the realities of adult life and work, where mistakes often carry real and lasting consequences.Joe, Tim, and Mike connect these educational shifts to broader workforce concerns. With many young people uncertain about job availability, homeownership, and long-term stability, the conversation explores how a lack of clear goals and attainable milestones can impact motivation, responsibility, and confidence. They reflect on how difficult it has become to achieve what once felt like simple aspirations—owning a home, starting a family, building a stable life—and how that reality shapes generational outlook.The episode also examines the challenges employers face managing five generations in the workforce at once. Mike shares insights from working with organizations navigating generational differences in communication styles, expectations, benefits, and engagement. From preference for human interaction versus AI-driven support to differences in how information is consumed, the group highlights the complexity businesses face in connecting meaningfully across age groups.As the conversation closes, the group returns to a central theme: the importance of human connection, accountability, and presence. While technology and AI continue to advance, Joe, Tim, and Mike emphasize that relationships, responsibility, and shared experiences remain essential to personal fulfillment and societal stability. Rather than offering easy answers, the episode invites reflection on how individuals, parents, educators, and leaders can help the next generation find purpose in an increasingly digital world.

In this special, reflective episode of The Germinate Podcast, host Joe Samson is joined by close friends Tim Dunn and Mike Pash for an unscripted conversation that blends technology, faith, friendship, and the importance of presence in an increasingly chaotic world The discussion opens with a candid look at technology and AI, not as a threat, but as a tool—one that should ultimately serve people rather than replace meaning or human connection. Joe shares a story about AI’s impact on radiology, highlighting how technology has made professionals more efficient without eliminating the need for human judgment. Tim and Mike reflect on where they personally engage with technology and where they intentionally step away from it.From there, the conversation naturally shifts toward purpose. Joe references a recent discussion with a college quarterback about faith and grounding life in something bigger than productivity or achievement. The group explores the idea that efficiency alone doesn’t lead to fulfillment, and that true purpose often comes from relationships, shared experiences, and intentional time away from constant noise.As the episode winds down, Joe challenges the group to reflect on highlight moments from the year, specifically moments rooted in friendship. What follows is a heartfelt exchange of memories—from dockside evenings at the Lake of the Ozarks filled with music and unexpected community, to football weekends in Iowa City that rekindled shared history, and a golf trip that brought longtime friends back together outside the routines of daily life.The episode closes with gratitude—for friendship, for family support, and for the listeners—along with a hopeful look ahead to the coming year. Rather than offering answers or advice, this conversation serves as a reminder of the value of slowing down, staying connected, and prioritizing what truly matters.

In this episode of The Germinate Podcast, host Joe Samson welcomes Elad Segal, co-founder and CEO of DriftSense, for a wide-ranging conversation that blends agtech innovation, entrepreneurship, and real-life perspective from Israel during an ongoing conflict .

Elad joins the show from Israel and opens up about what it’s like to build a company, raise a family, and lead a team while living under rocket alarms and constant uncertainty. He shares personal stories about evacuations, parenting young children during wartime, and how his team continues to operate as both colleagues and extended family.

From there, the conversation shifts into DriftSense and the real problem the company is solving in agriculture. Elad explains that most spray decisions today rely heavily on meteorology alone—but spraying success is far more complex. DriftSense brings together chemistry, equipment setup, application method, regulations, and weather into a single algorithmic engine that helps growers and agronomists determine when and where to spray for optimal results.

Joe and Elad discuss why spraying is one of the most expensive and risk-filled operations on a farm, especially as labor costs rise, chemical resistance increases, and margins tighten. Elad explains why fungicides and insecticides can cost hundreds of dollars per acre, why “pray-and-spray” is no longer sustainable, and how inefficiencies in application timing and method can waste money, time, and chemistry.

The episode also dives into startup realities—how DriftSense pivoted from a regulatory-first approach to a grower-first solution after speaking with hundreds of stakeholders across the ag value chain. Elad shares candid lessons on customer discovery, saying “no” as a founder, avoiding over-customization, and focusing relentlessly on real problems rather than flashy features.

Joe and Elad explore the broader theme of efficiency over yield, noting that many growers are no longer interested in promises of maximum yield, but instead want tools that help them do their existing work better, faster, and with less risk. They discuss how agtech solutions work best in combination—spray optimization alongside water optimization, maintenance software, and operational tools—rather than as one-size-fits-all answers.

The conversation closes with a thoughtful reflection on technology, AI, and human connection. While automation and data continue to reshape agriculture, Joe and Elad agree that trust, relationships, and real conversations remain irreplaceable. Elad shares DriftSense’s vision of becoming the gold standard for crop protection decision-making and outlines the company’s focus on specialty crops, particularly in California.

Connect with the Guest

Elad Segal
Co-Founder & CEO, DriftSense
LinkedIn: https://il.linkedin.com/in/elad-segal-ph-d-aaa91077
Email: eladelad@drift-sense.com
Website: https://www.drift-sense.com

In this episode, Joe Samson sits down with Christopher Pudenz, Economist and Economics & Research Manager at the Iowa Farm Bureau, to unpack what’s really happening in today’s cattle and grain markets.

Chris explains why his dad’s feedlot will be empty this Christmas for the first time in 50 years, how recent policy changes and plant closures have hammered cattle futures, and why “high prices cure high prices” in a cyclical industry. They also dive into corn and soybean oversupply, Brazil’s competitive edge, emerging markets like India, and how diversification in livestock and dairy can help Iowa farmers weather the storm.

The conversation closes on faith, purpose, and a surprising source of optimism: a coming return to what’s real and authentic in rural America.

Thank you to our sponsors:

• GBGI – Planter attachment parts, manufacturing & distribution

  • Website: GBGIUSA.com

• Haven Steel – Steel products out of Haven, Kansas & McKenzie, Tennessee

  • Website: HavenSteel.com

• Farm Equipment Manufacturers Association (FEMA) – Supporting the equipment makers who support American farmers

  
  

  More informaiton on our guest

• Guest: Christopher Pudenz

• Role: Economics & Research Manager (Economist), Iowa Farm Bureau

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cpudenz

• Iowa Farm Bureau: https://www.iowafarmbureau.com

In this episode, Joe Sampson sits down with Colin Hurd, a serial entrepreneur and the founder of multiple agtech companies, including Mach, to explore the intersection of innovation, labor challenges, and automation in agriculture.

Colin shares his entrepreneurial journey, from building his first tillage product in college to scaling and selling Smart Ag to Raven Industries, and now building Mach—a company focused on providing factory-integrated autonomy solutions for off-highway OEMs. The conversation unpacks the true bottlenecks facing modern agriculture, particularly labor shortages and the slow pace of tech adoption in the shortline manufacturing space.

They also dig deep into why most autonomy solutions in agriculture haven’t yet scaled, how Mach is tackling this through modular tech stacks, and why shortliners should move fast before the majors dominate this space. Colin offers candid insights about quality, user experience, product-market fit, and how to actually build technology that solves real-world problems for farmers.

A must-listen for anyone in the ag equipment industry, startups, OEMs, and anyone curious about how real automation is evolving behind the scenes.

In this heartfelt and insightful episode of The Germinate Podcast, host Joe Sampson sits down with Ben Hellbusch, President of Duo Lift Manufacturing, to explore the rich history, values, and bold moves shaping the family-run company. Coming off the 75th Anniversary of the Farm Equipment Manufacturers Association (FEMA), Ben shares how his grandfather began building equipment in the back of a milk barn in 1943, how his father grew the business through the “Dirty 80s,” and how Ben and his brother David are now modernizing and expanding the brand while staying true to their roots.

Listeners get an inside look at the evolution of a multi-generational business — from manufacturing to vertical integration with distribution and, most recently, retail. Ben opens up about the challenges of labor shifts, the culture clash with younger generations, and the role of technology and AI in staying competitive.

Alongside personal reflections on family, hard work, and the enduring impact of sports, this episode is a powerful reminder of what makes ag manufacturing special — resilience, relationships, and relentless drive.

In this special 40th episode of The Germinate Podcast, host Joe Sampson welcomes his longtime friend and industry veteran Cor Lodder, recently retired from Walinga, a Canadian manufacturer with global impact in agricultural transport equipment.

Cor shares the incredible 70+ year story of Walinga—from his grandfather's immigration with a leather satchel full of tools to becoming a global company employing over 500 people. He reflects on 48 years of personal involvement, the importance of transitioning leadership to the next generation (G3), and how family, faith, and innovation have built Walinga's enduring foundation.

The conversation dives into the evolution of manufacturing—from arc welding to CNC to laser—and the role automation, AI, and trade shows like FABTECH have played in Walinga’s growth. They also discuss the real-world implications of tariffs, the challenges of labor, and how Canadian and US manufacturing are evolving.

Ending on a deeply personal and spiritual note, Cor and Joe connect over their shared Christian faith, reflecting on how biblical servant leadership and purpose-driven business can light the way for future generations.

In this powerful episode of The Germinate Podcast, host Joe Sampson sits down with Cory Carlson, a former corporate executive turned faith-driven leadership coach and author. Cory opens up about the imposter syndrome he faced climbing the corporate ladder, and how coaching transformed his life and career path.

Now the founder of the Rise Community, Cory helps men live intentionally, lead authentically, and win not only at work—but more importantly—at home. With deep conviction, practical frameworks, and an unshakable faith, Cory breaks down what it means to live a life of purpose in every role you hold: husband, father, leader, and friend.

Joe and Cory discuss topics ranging from personal boundaries and daily habits to family dinners, writing books, overcoming fear, and choosing courage in the face of uncertainty. Whether you’re a burnt-out executive or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is a wake-up call to reassess your values, clarify your vision, and take intentional action.

In this on-the-ground episode of The Germinate Podcast, host Joe Sampson reconnects with Illinois farmer Matt Perreault, live from his combine during harvest. Matt offers an unfiltered look at what it’s really like to farm corn and soybeans in 2025 amidst volatile markets, tightening margins, and shifting global trade dynamics.

They dive into:

• Why consistent weather hasn't necessarily equaled prosperity

• The true costs of growing corn vs. soybeans

• How China’s shifting trade with South America is hurting U.S. farmers

• Why government “aid” isn’t a long-term solution

• The ripple effects across ag-tech, equipment, and rural America

• The urgent need for biofuel policies and carbon market clarity

This is a powerful listen for anyone who wants to understand the very real pressures and decisions shaping the future of American agriculture.

In this eye-opening episode, host Joe Sampson welcomes Grant Kimberley, a leading voice in U.S. agriculture and Senior Director at the Iowa Soybean Association. Together, they break down the perfect storm facing American soybean farmers—from rising input costs and collapsing demand to the devastating impact of U.S.-China trade tensions.

Grant offers rare behind-the-scenes insight into how Brazil’s agricultural growth, retaliatory tariffs, and stalled U.S. biofuel policy have combined to threaten the livelihoods of countless U.S. producers. With potential global consequences and skyrocketing rural distress, the conversation explores what it will take to turn things around—including diplomatic meetings, biofuel policy reforms, and strategic domestic demand growth.

Whether you’re in ag, policy, or just want to understand the broader economic landscape, this episode delivers the clarity and urgency the moment demands.

In this captivating conversation, Joe Sampson and Chris Morbitzer explore the rise of AI from personal fascination to practical implementation. Joe recalls his first brush with ChatGPT in 2022, while Chris traces his journey back to the early days of natural language processing. Together, they discuss how AI has evolved, the dangers of blind reliance, and how it’s reshaping everything from manufacturing to marketing.

They also touch on the emotional and spiritual hunger in modern society, particularly among younger generations gravitating toward traditional religion and liturgy, searching for meaning in an algorithm-driven world. Chris presents AI as both a jetpack for productivity and a crutch when misused.

Toward the end, Chris previews his upcoming talk at the FEMA Convention in Las Vegas, where he'll present on the "18-Month Window" for AI-readiness in distribution. The conversation offers practical advice for businesses and reflects deeply on how AI affects not only operations but our capacity for creativity, connection, and critical thinking.

In this insightful and forward-thinking episode of The Germinate Podcast, host Joe Sampson reconnects with long-time industry leader Leah Olson, a powerhouse in Canadian agriculture, policy, and ag-tech innovation. With a career spanning the rail industry, seed innovation, autonomous equipment (DOT), and executive leadership roles like AMC and Pammi, Leah shares her journey, the reality of being a CEO, and her candid views on trade, tariffs, and what's next for North American agriculture.From her small-town farm roots to leading major organizations through transformation, Leah reflects on lessons learned, the emotional and strategic burden of leadership, and how "listening" might be the most underrated CEO skill. The episode also tackles pressing issues like the U.S. tariff implementation, the fragility of Canada-U.S. trade, and what both countries must do to ensure food security and economic viability.A must-listen for anyone navigating ag policy, equipment innovation, farm economics, or just looking to lead better.

In this episode, host Joe Sampson sits down with Steve Bruere, President of People’s Company, to explore how farmland ownership, management, and investment are transforming in today’s agricultural economy.Steve shares his personal journey from growing up on a small farm in Warren County, Iowa, to building one of the largest farmland real estate, management, and investment firms in the U.S. With operations in 35 states and 27 offices, People’s Company manages billions in agricultural transactions annually.They discuss how technology and AI are revolutionizing farmland management, debunk myths about foreign ownership (no, China isn’t buying all U.S. farmland), and explain how outside capital and family farms can coexist in the modern market.The conversation expands into entrepreneurship, Steve’s unexpected entry into the wine business with his “Capital Call” label, and the pride and passion tied to owning even a few acres of American soil.

In this episode of The Germinate Podcast, host Joe Sampson welcomes Matthew Rassi, founder of Twenty Helping Hands, a lean manufacturing consultant and operational strategist. With a background spanning 25 years in manufacturing, Matthew shares how his corporate experience evolved into launching his own consulting firm—driven by a passion for servant leadership and empowering teams.

Together, Joe and Matthew dig deep into lean principles, the importance of servant leadership, and why focusing on process—not people—is the key to sustainable growth. Matthew breaks down his step-by-step approach to transforming factories and shops, often finding 30%+ improvement without adding new people or machines.

This episode is packed with actionable advice for business owners, plant managers, and entrepreneurs looking to scale, reduce chaos, and build a thriving, empowered culture.

In this heartfelt episode of The Germinate Podcast, host Joe Sampson sits down with former University of Iowa basketball star and current faith-driven entrepreneur Al Lorenzen. Together, they explore the often-overlooked spiritual cost of worldly success and how true fulfillment only comes through a relationship with Jesus.

From NCAA tournaments to running a ranch-based equine therapy nonprofit, Al reflects on his personal journey from the “top of the mountain” to spiritual emptiness, and ultimately to a meaningful life centered around faith, family, and servant leadership.

The conversation also delves into the pressures of parenting athletes, the cultural shift toward victim mentality, the impact of Charlie Kirk’s passing, and the importance of standing firm in truth during challenging times.

Whether you're a leader, parent, entrepreneur, or just navigating life’s valleys, this episode is a reminder that you’re never truly winning until you're grounded in something greater than yourself.

In this special live episode recorded at Tech Hub Live in Des Moines, Iowa, Joe hosts a riveting panel discussion with leaders from across agriculture, technology, and law.

Panelists include:

They dive deep into how AI is impacting agriculture, society, and human relationships. From fears around data privacy and job disruption to excitement about freeing up time for family and legacy, this candid conversation explores the promise—and responsibility—of leveraging AI the right way.

This isn’t your typical panel. Expect honesty, laughter, moments of vulnerability, and a powerful reminder that while AI may change how we work, it can’t replace what makes us human.

In this special edition of The Germinate Podcast, host Joe Sampson is joined by Adam Steen, who is running for Governor of Iowa, for a raw and powerful conversation recorded on the morning of September 11th. Still reeling from the shocking attack on Charlie Kirk, the two explore the spiritual, cultural, and emotional toll of evil in America—and how the nation has drifted away from truth.

Steen speaks with vulnerability and fire about his decision to run for governor, his battle-tested faith journey, and his personal experience raising a son with Joubert Syndrome. This episode is not just political—it's spiritual. It's about standing up for truth in a world that punishes truth-tellers, and redefining leadership as a calling, not a career.

Joe and Adam don't hold back—from cultural commentary to deeply personal stories of suffering, healing, and conviction, this episode will leave listeners thinking, praying, and ready to act.

In this captivating episode, host Joe Sampson sits down with Gary Wickham, the visionary CEO of MagrowTec, to uncover the journey of a scientist turned serial entrepreneur who’s revolutionizing agriculture.

From growing up in a family of nine in Ireland and falling in love with science as a kid in his father’s lab, to building a $300M business and founding a disruptive agri-tech company, Gary’s story is rich with resilience, innovation, and global impact.

They discuss the magnetic technology behind MagrowTec and how it optimizes pesticide usage, drastically reduces waste, and increases ROI for farmers—all without wires, software, or complexity.

Gary also opens up about:

• The cultural and business-friendly climate of Ireland

• Why American agriculture is key to MagrowTec’s future

• The power of family and partner support in entrepreneurial success

• How innovation can empower smallholder farmers across Africa and Asia

This is a must-listen for anyone in ag, tech, or entrepreneurship.

In this eye-opening episode, Joe Sampson chats with Natalie Kovarik, co-host of the Discover Ag podcast, about the whirlwind of food misinformation, agriculture myths, and what it really means to eat well in a world overloaded with social media soundbites. They explore the viral TikToks, trending health fads, glyphosate debates, and even whether Europe really has better food.

From Natalie's background as a pharmacist-turned-rancher to her current role as a podcast host educating consumers on food systems, she brings deep insight and a refreshingly level-headed perspective. The conversation ranges from fake alien beach holes to the nuances of GMOs, glyphosate safety, and why moderation—and critical thinking—are more important than ever.