Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast

In this episode, Valerie Kilders and student co-host Kailee Cooper sit down with Mario Herrero, a professor in the Cornell CALS Department of Global Development and the director of Food Systems & Global Change.    Mario explains the interconnected relationship between agriculture, land use, environmental sustainability, nutrition and food waste, as well as his work with the EAT-Lancet Commission on healthy diets from sustainable food systems. He explores how food systems can be transformed through research, collaboration and practical changes at the local and global level.

In this episode, faculty host Valerie Kilders and student co-host Kailee Cooper sit down with Kara Hartman, the study abroad manager within the Purdue International Programs in Agriculture. They cover the different types and lengths of study abroad programs, destinations available to Purdue students this year, and what students should consider when choosing an experience that fits their academic and personal goals. Kara shares insights from her own time abroad and discusses how study abroad experiences can provide students with opportunities for personal, academic and professional growth.

For the last time, Reagan Koester and Brady Wiley share their final thoughts as co-hosts of the Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast. As Brady reflects on his years at Purdue and discusses his plans post-graduation, Reagan talks about what she’s looking forward to in her senior year and how going outside her comfort zone and saying “yes” to things helped her make giant leaps in her Purdue career.  Stay tuned as we welcome next year’s co-hosts, Kailee Cooper and Justin Bedel, who are excited to continue sharing the stories and experiences of Purdue Agriculture students!

In this episode of the Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast, student co-hosts Brady Wiley and Reagan Koester sit down with Casey and Jill Zeller, Purdue Ag Econ alums and Apex Award recipients. They share how their Purdue experiences shaped their careers at SePRO Corporation and Corteva Agriscience, while offering insights into continuous learning and relationship-building. The conversation also highlights the importance of giving back and making the most of every stage of the journey. They also offer practical advice for students preparing to enter the workforce, emphasizing the value of hard work, saying yes to new opportunities and embracing growth through challenges.

In this episode of the Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast, Valerie Kilders and student co-host Brady Wiley sit down with Sam and Dan Krouse, co-CEOs of MPS Egg Farms in North Manchester, Indiana. The conversation explores how a sixth-generation family business has grown into one of the nation’s largest egg producers, covering topics like managing Easter demand and navigating commodity price swings to tackling bird flu and investing in sustainability through vertical integration and fertilizer innovation. Sam and Dan also share how transparency, community commitment and long-term planning continue to shape the future of egg production in a rapidly changing agricultural landscape.

Tune in for a thoughtful conversation with Professor Emeritus Dr. Otto Doering as he explores the evolving intersection of agriculture and the energy sector. From the early development of ethanol policy to emerging solar opportunities and the growing energy demands driven by data centers, Doering unpacks how these industries have become increasingly intertwined. Drawing on decades of experience in agricultural economics, he examines the market forces, policy decisions and technological shifts shaping both sectors today. The discussion goes beyond headlines, diving into how changes to the electric grid, rural land use and global energy trends directly impact farmers, communities and consumers. Grounded in both economic analysis and personal reflection, Doering also considers the role of values in decision-making, reminding listeners that the future of agriculture and energy will be shaped not only by innovation and investment, but by the priorities we choose to uphold.

In this episode of the Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast, Ken Foster and student co-host Brady Wiley sit down with Christian Butzke, a professor in Purdue’s Department of Food Science. Dr. Butzke discusses the growth of Indiana’s wine industry, emerging trends like non-alcoholic beverages, and how science and innovation are shaping the future of wine production. He also shares insights from his popular wine appreciation course, where students explore the global history, culture, and science behind wine. The conversation highlights how universities like Purdue play a role in supporting entrepreneurs, translating research into real-world solutions, and preparing students to blend science, business, and innovation in their careers.

In this episode of the Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast, Reagan and Brady sit down with Angie Abbott, Associate Dean and Director of Purdue Extension. Abbott discusses how Extension connects Purdue research with real-world decision-making in agriculture, communities, and youth development. The conversation highlights the future of Extension, including regional service models, workforce development, and emerging technologies like AI, offering insight for students, producers, and community leaders interested in people-centered leadership and the land-grant mission.

In this episode of the Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast, Reagan and Brady are joined by Sonny Beck, Purdue alumnus, CEO of Beck’s Hybrids, and a member of Purdue’s Board of Trustees. Sonny shares how growing up on a family farm and his time at Purdue shaped his leadership philosophy and commitment to agriculture. The conversation focuses on values over numbers, as Sonny reflects on his guiding principles of faith, family, and farming. He discusses building strong relationships with farmers and employees, leading with integrity, and giving back to the ag community through practical research and service-driven leadership. This episode offers meaningful insights for students, alumni, and agricultural professionals interested in purpose-driven leadership and what it truly means to be a Boilermaker in agriculture.

In this episode of the Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast, Valerie Kilders and Brady Wiley sit down with Neil Mylet, agricultural economist, inventor, rural development advocate and proud Purdue alumnus. Growing up on his family’s farm in Camden, Indiana, Neil shares how his time at Purdue was shaped by mentorship, entrepreneurship coursework and hands-on leadership experiences, which sparked his passion for innovation and community impact. Neil walks listeners through the origins of Camden Castle, a bold effort to restore a historic opera house into a hub for technology, arts and opportunity in rural Indiana. From global partnerships and cultural exchanges to expanding digital infrastructure and inspiring young people to see what’s possible, Neil explains how entrepreneurship and connectivity can help rural communities not just survive but thrive. A thoughtful and inspiring conversation, this episode is perfect for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, rural development, technology and the lasting power of the Boilermaker network.

In this episode of the Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast, student hosts Reagan Koester and Brady Wiley welcome back former co-hosts and Purdue Ag Econ alumni Abby Meier (Agribusiness and Agri-Marketing, ‘24) and Colby Smock (Agribusiness, ‘23). The conversation reflects on life after Purdue, highlighting diverse career paths in agricultural policy, international education and family agribusiness. Abby and Colby share how classroom experiences, study abroad, internships and involvement with the podcast shaped their professional growth and perspectives. A reflective and inspiring episode, this conversation is especially valuable for students exploring career possibilities, internships and the many ways an agricultural economics degree can open doors both at home and around the world.

In this episode of the Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast, hosts Valerie Kilders and Reagan Koester sit down with Indiana entrepreneur and proud Purdue alumnus Joe Rust. Joe shares his journey from his early interest in business to his time at Purdue, where transformative mentorship, campus involvement, and hands-on experiences shaped his career path. He also offers candid advice for students navigating their own professional paths and reflects on how Purdue helped launch his vision for creating value in rural communities. A thoughtful, energizing conversation, this episode is perfect for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, agriculture, or the power of the Boilermaker network.

In this episode, hosts Ken Foster and Reagan Koester sit down with Kenzie House, a financial officer at Farm Credit Mid-America, for an insightful conversation about today’s evolving farm economy. Kenzie breaks down how producers can stay resilient amid shifting markets, rising interest rates and generational transitions, offering clear strategies grounded in real experience. She highlights the unique ways Farm Credit supports young and beginning farmers and shares thoughtful advice for students exploring careers in ag finance. With her blend of expertise and enthusiasm for rural communities, listen in to hear Kenzie’s refreshing perspective that makes this episode both inspiring and informative.

Dr. Amanda Deering is an associate professor in Purdue University’s Department of Food Science, specializing in the microbial safety of fresh produce. Her research focuses on how human pathogens interact with fruits and vegetables and how contamination can be reduced through science-based practices. In addition to her laboratory work, she leads Extension efforts that help growers and industry professionals implement effective food-safety strategies. Deering’s work bridges research and practical application to support a safer, more resilient product supply chain.

Dr. Chad Fiechter is a professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Purdue University, whose research focuses on integrating artificial intelligence into production agriculture. A Purdue graduate himself, Dr. Fiechter returned to his family’s farm after completing his undergraduate degree before deciding to pursue his Ph.D. and an academic career. His work combines hands-on agricultural experience with cutting-edge research to explore how emerging technologies can enhance efficiency, sustainability and decision-making in modern farming.

In this episode of the Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast, we talk with Binayak Kunwar, a Ph.D. student whose award-winning master’s thesis, “Impact of Commercial and Utility-Scale Solar Energy on Farmland Prices,” explores how solar development affects farmland values and land use. Binayak shares his journey to Purdue, what inspired his research and insights on the future of renewable energy and agriculture.

What does it take to build a career that bridges teaching, research and global engagement? Join Dr. Ken Foster and Brady Wiley as they welcome Jerry Shively, Associate Dean and Director of International Programs in Agriculture at Purdue University and a 2025 Fellow of the Agricultural & Applied Economics Association. In this conversation, Dr. Shively reflects on his career as a scholar, teacher and leader in agricultural economics. From his academic journey at Purdue to his global research and professional service, he shares the lessons learned along the way and the insights that have earned him recognition as one of the field’s most distinguished contributors.

Join Dr. Valerie Kilders and Reagan Koester as they welcome Scott Mitchell, a 2025 Distinguished Agriculture Alumni Award recipient from Purdue’s Department of Agricultural Economics. From his roots in Waveland, Indiana, to his leadership experiences across the globe with Sumitomo Chemical, Scott reflects on his career journey in the agriculture sector. Listen in as he shares how his Purdue education shaped his path, the lessons he’s carried forward and the insights he has gained through a career of impact and innovation.

For the last time, Shay Doerstler and Marie Mechley share their final thoughts as co-hosts of the Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast. Listen as they reflect on some of their most memorable experiences at Purdue that shaped their four years here. They also reveal what’s next for them after graduation. Stay tuned as we welcome next year’s co-hosts, Reagan Koester and Brady Wiley, who are excited to continue sharing the stories and experiences of Purdue Agriculture students!

Join Dr. Ken Foster and Shay Doerstler as they sit down with Chrissie Cartmell Loucks (B.S. Agribusiness Management, ‘07), one of four recipients of the department’s most prestigious honor—the Apex Alumni Award. Now serving as Portfolio Manager for Digital Aftermarket Products at John Deere, Chrissie reflects on nearly 18 years of leadership in the agriculture industry and how her Purdue education continues to shape her path. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on career growth, mentorship and making a meaningful impact—no matter the size of your community.

Please join Dr. Kilders and Marie Mechley as they have the honor to speak with this year’s James C. Snyder Lecturer, Esther L. George. Esther, the former CEO and President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, shares about her career and the impact of agriculture in her journey. Tune in for insights on the cycles of the economy, the impact of inflation and interest rates and advice for those figuring out what they want to do with their career.

Join Dr. Valerie Kilders and Marie Mechley as they welcome Amy Kinsler, a Purdue Agricultural Economics Alum and the Chief Experience Officer at Keystone Cooperative, onto the podcast. Amy provides some great insights as she reflects on her career journey and the 2024 merger of Indiana-based agriculture and energy cooperatives, Ceres Solutions Cooperative, Inc. and Co-Alliance Cooperative, Inc., which came together to form Keystone Cooperative, Inc. Listen in as she discusses the challenges and opportunities that come along with a merger.

Please join Shay and Marie as they speak with Dr. Dave Downey, founder and executive director emeritus of Purdue’s Center for Food and Agricultural Business, and Dr. Scott Downey, the center’s current director and a professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics. Together, they have played key roles in developing and teaching Purdue’s Ag Econ 331 and 431 courses. Learn about how Purdue’s sales program was created, the global impact of the Center, and how the father-son pair has both impacted thousands of Purdue students and industry leaders.

In this episode, Dr. Ken Foster and Shay Doerstler sit down with Dr. Jay Akridge, a Purdue alumnus whose impact on the university spans nearly four decades. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Akridge shares insights from his 38-year journey at Purdue, discussing his experiences shaping students, faculty, and academic programs and the lessons he’s learned along the way. He also reflects on the prestigious awards he’s received, including his most recent, the Certificate of Distinction from the Purdue Agricultural Alumni Association and the 2024 Frederick L. Hovde Award of Excellence in Educational Service to Rural People of Indiana from the Purdue College of Agriculture.   Tune in for an inspiring discussion on leadership, education, and Dr. Akridge's legacy of excellence!    Dr. Akridge also runs a blog with Purdue Distinguished Professor of Economics Dr. David Hummels, titled "Finding Equilibrium: Two Economists on Higher Ed's Future." Read and subscribe to their blog: https://substack.com/@jayakridge

Join Dr. Valerie Kilders and Shay Doerstler for an insightful discussion about the Global Trade Analysis Project (GTAP). This episode features Dr. Channing Arndt, the new Director of GTAP, Dr. Dominique van der Mensbrugghe, who led the organization for a decade, and Dr. Erwin Corong, Associate Director. They share their journeys with GTAP, the organization’s global influence, and its role in shaping international policy through quantitative analysis.   GTAP is a global network of researchers and policymakers dedicated to enhancing the quality of economic analysis within an economy-wide framework. Tune in to explore the profound impact this local office has had over the past 40 years—and what the future holds for GTAP!   To learn more about GTAP, visit their website at: https://www.gtap.agecon.purdue.edu/about/project.asp

Join Marie and Shay to kick off 2025 with the first podcast of the semester! This episode features special guests from the Purdue Ag Week Task Force—Olivia Reynolds, Marnie Schwartzkopf, Jaydon Kauffman, and Kyra Meister—who share their personal experiences serving on the task force and discuss the incredible impact Ag Week has on the Purdue student body and beyond. If you love agriculture, you will love to hear more about the history of Ag Week and how you can be involved.

Join us for a heartfelt and informative episode as Marie and Shay learn more about two of the department's academic advisors (and conveniently, Marie and Shay’s academic advisors): Mrs. LeeAnn Williams and Mr. Andy Oppy! LeeAnn and Andy share what it is like to be the best academic advisors and what all academic advisors do outside of what students see during their advising appointments. LeeAnn and Andy share wonderful advice and insights on how current students and alumni should navigate through their careers.

Dr. Valerie Kilders and Shay Doerstler sit down with three seniors involved in undergraduate agricultural economics research. Sara Hasselbring, Olivia Reynolds and Jackson Lusk share a bit about each of their unique journeys, the projects they are currently working on and the challenges they've faced along the way. Whether you're considering undergraduate research or just curious about what this process looks like, this conversation offers valuable insight and advice. Tune in to learn more about Sara, Olivia, and Jackson's research in agricultural economics!

Happy (early) Thanksgiving! Please join Dr. Foster and Marie Mechley as they discuss food conservation with Dr. Brenna Ellison, a professor in Purdue’s Department of Agricultural Economics. Dr. Ellison is leading Purdue’s newest center, the Center for Food Conservation and Waste Reduction. Tune in to hear more about how you can help waste less food during this holiday season!

Dr. Valerie Kilders and Marie Mechley sit down with Purdue graduate student and First Lieutenant Austin Berenda, Platoon Leader in the Indiana National Guard, to discuss his journey and experiences. Tune in to hear about how Lieutenant Berenda has juggled being both a student and a Platoon Leader, his advice for both students and service members and how he got to where he is today.

For the third and final episode in the Farm Bill series, our two student co-hosts, Marie Mechley and Shay Doerstler, interviewed two people who are affected by the Farm Bill in their daily operations. The first interview welcomes guest Kier Crites Muller, the CEO of Lafayette Food Finders Food Bank, to talk about the nutrition portion of the Farm Bill and the impact that it has on Food Finders and the communities they serve. The second interview welcomes guest Ty Brown, a local farmer and entrepreneur from Rossville, Indiana, to talk about crop subsidies, conservation, and the future of creating demand for farmers’ products through the Farm Bill.

Join Dr. Foster and Shay Doerstler for the second episode of the 3-part Farm Bill series. We have two very special guests this episode who are joining us from Washington D.C. Dr. Anetra Harbor is a USDA Detailee on the U.S. Minority House Agriculture Committee, Office of Ranking Member David Scott. Our second guest and previous Podcast student co-host, Halee Fisher, Legislative Assistant U.S. House Agriculture Committee Office of Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson. In this episode, we discuss the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024, the current status, and regular process of a Farm Bill. Tune in to learn more about their perspectives from working on the Farm Bill and the work put in behind the scenes!

On this episode, Dr. Valerie Kilders and Marie Mechley sit down for the first episode of a 3 part series on the Farm Bill. They are joined by Dr. Roman Keeney, a Department of Agricultural Economics professor who has been with the department since 2005 as a farm-rural household economics professor. He received his doctorate and initial faculty appointment at Purdue University, and he currently teaches a class on Agriculture Policy. Dr. Keeney gives his expert overview on what the Farm Bill is, what it includes, what causes increases in cost, why it has not been passed, and what the future may look like for the Farm Bill. With legislation at the forefront of many topics, this episode gives an insight into information many viewers may not know.    Roman Keeney began his appointment with the agricultural economics faculty of Purdue University in August 2005 as assistant professor of farm and rural household economics. Prior to that, Roman was a Ph.D. student in the Purdue AgEcon department. Roman’s research program explores how farm households and rural residents respond to and are impacted by changes to farm and farm-related policies. Roman has worked extensively on the interaction between U.S. domestic farm programs and international trade barriers, focusing in particular on the distribution of gains and losses across the population of U.S. farmers. Recently, Roman has taken on Extension responsibilities for analysis and education of farm payment programs. In addition to research and Extension, Roman teaches the department’s undergraduate math programming course and graduate-level production economics course.

Join Dr. Foster and Shay Doerstler for a special episode as they introduce the Ag Econ department's newest professor, Dr. Trey Malone, the Boehlje Endowed Chair for Managerial Economics in Agribusiness. Dr. Malone discusses how the intersection of agricultural economics and data science is shaping the future of agriculture businesses. Trey Malone is an agri-food economist specializing in agribusiness entrepreneurship and the public policy impacts on agri-food supply chains. He has published over 60 research articles in prominent journals like Food Policy and the American Journal of Agricultural Economics, and has earned numerous awards, including the Emerging Scholar Award from the Southern Agricultural Economics Association. His research has been funded by agencies like the National Science Foundation and the USDA. Previously an Assistant Professor at Michigan State University, he holds advanced degrees from Oklahoma State University. Dr. Malone's work has been featured in major media outlets such as The New York Times and TIME Magazine. He currently serves as North American Managing Editor for the International Food and Agribusiness Review and as a USDA Southern Fellow for Sustainable Agriculture Research.

As this school year comes to a close, this year’s student cohosts, Shelby Whitaker and Colby Smock, are interviewed by next year’s student cohosts, Marie Mechley and Shay Doerstler. We learn about some of their most memorable experiences at Purdue and their advice for students.

In this episode, Dr. Ken Foster and Shelby Whitaker welcome Purdue Ag Econ alum and 2024 APEX award winner James Joshua to the podcast! James Joshua currently serves as Vice President of Procurement at Diversified Foods & Seasonings and is a previous Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Ocean Hero award winner. Listen as they dive into conversations surrounding food procurement and sustainability, challenges, opportunities, and the influence of technology on the industry.  James Joshua serves as the Vice President of Procurement at Diversified Foods & Seasonings, overseeing food and packaging expenses. He is the winner of the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Ocean Hero award for his support and for bringing awareness to the sustainably sourced Filet O Fish at McDonald's. He graduated from Purdue with a Master's in Agricultural Economics in 2004. He currently serves on the Purdue Ag Alumni Board and previously served on the Purdue Dean of Agriculture Advisory Council. James was recently awarded the 2024 Purdue Ag Econ APEX Award. The APEX Award, presented by the Department of Agricultural Economics, is in recognition of those individuals with a strong connection to the department who have made outstanding contributions in their fields. It is the highest honor given by the department and represents the convergence of accomplishment in the lives of our honorees.

Ken and Shelby  discuss entrepreneurship and the evolving industry of Agricultural Marketing with Purdue Alum Travis Martin. Travis discusses the importance of being a life-long learner, challenges his business has encountered, and more about his professional journey from Purdue graduate to entrepreneur. Travis Martin graduated from Purdue with a BS in Agribusiness Management in 2014. During his time at Purdue, he was involved in Old Masters, Mortar Board, a founding member of Purdue Ag Week Taskforce, Gimlet Honorary, Ag Ambassadors and more. Travis was also recently invited back to campus as a 2024 Rising Professional. Currently, he is the founder and owner of Imagine Content and Consulting, as well as the creator of AFA’s Magnetic Ag Newsletter.

Dr. Valerie Kilders and Colby Smock had the wonderful opportunity to sit down with the Holt brothers. Dr. Mattew Holt is a Purdue Ag Econ grad for both his bachelors and master’s study, and a recent recipient of the 2024 Distinguished Agriculture Alumni Awards. He is currently a professor and Department Head of Agricultural and Applied Economics at Virginia Tech. His brother, Dr. Mark Holt received his doctorate in Veterinary Medicine here at Purdue and is currently the President and CEO at First Farmers Bank & Trust. Enjoy this amazing conversation full of reflection, advice, and Boiler up!

Dr. Valerie Kilders and Colby Smock were accompanied by Kayla Zalesny and Casey Voll to discuss the wonderful opportunity that Purdue’s NAMA is. From professional development to fun times, get an insight into all NAMA has to offer.  You can also find Purdue’s NAMA team on Instagram @purduenama!