In this episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, lifelong farmers and Total Acre founders Randy Dowdy and David Hula tackle one of farming’s greatest variables — Mother Nature. From drought in South Georgia to hailstorms in Michigan, the duo explores how weather shapes harvest outcomes and the strategies farmers can use to stay ahead. Randy and David share real-world lessons on crop management and fungicide use, emphasizing how proactive decisions protect yield and reduce costly harvest setbacks. They dig into the realities of rising input costs and how to “finish the crop” for strong ROI, even when equipment prices soar. Listeners will also gain actionable insights for soybean success — including early planting, maturity selection, and precision timing — plus a heartfelt discussion on faith, community, and partnerships that sustain farmers through tough seasons. Tune in to learn how continual improvement, collaboration, and innovation can help you break barriers on every acre.

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In this episode of Breaking Barriers, record-yield growers and Total Acre founders Randy Dowdy and David Hula unpack the real-world factors affecting today's farmers — from weather-related yield challenges to strategic use of cover crops. David discusses how unexpected late-season weather shifted corn hybrid plot results, while Tim Woodward shares how Southern growers are battling hard ground and low market prices during peanut and cotton harvests. The team also explores the impact of limited competition in ag markets and how it affects grower profitability.

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In this episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, Randy Dowdy and David Hula dive into surprising parallels between deer farming and row crop agriculture. Randy shares insights from his Michigan-based deer farm, Next Level Whitetails, exploring how science and nutrition drive antler growth — just like maximizing yield in corn and soybeans. Also in this episode: Tips on stress management and tick prevention for deer farmers and hunters. The importance of scouting and early pest detection, featuring a spotlight on Syngenta’s Durastak technology. Strategies for continual, measurable improvements on your farm.

🎧 Whether you're in the field or planning next season, this episode delivers practical insights to help you break barriers and boost profits — one acre at a time.

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