Capital Roots: Stories from Agriculture's Footprint

Episode 52: From West Texas to Washington: Skylar Sowder on Fighting for Agriculture

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 17:37:19 GMT

Recorded in Washington, D.C. during the 2025 Farm Credit Fly-In, this episode of Capital Roots feature Skylar Sowder, Vice President of Government Affairs for the Farm Credit Council.

In this episode, Skylar shares how her West Texas roots shaped her passion for advocating for farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. She breaks down what's happening with the Farm Bill, why bipartisan cooperation still matters, and how she approaches policy through the lens of the customer. Tune in for a grounded look at agriculture advocacy in action.

Episode 51: Leadership in Action: A Conversation with Farm Credit Council CEO Christy Seyfert

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 12:00:40 GMT

In this episode of Capital Roots, host Clint Cryer welcomes Christy Seyfert, President & CEO of the Farm Credit Council, for a timely conversation recorded during the 2025 Farm Credit Fly-In. With the government now reopened, Christy reflects on the momentum of the week, Farm Credit’s unified advocacy efforts, and the policy priorities shaping Farm Bill 2.0.

She also shares her first-year perspective as CEO, her deep agricultural roots, and why strong relationships across the system make Farm Credit’s mission so powerful. A must-listen for anyone following ag policy, leadership, or the future of rural America.

Missed an episode of Capital Roots? Find all of our past episodes here.

Episode 50: The Economics of Water: Balancing Conservation and Production in West Texas with Dr. Donna McCallister

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:00:35 GMT

In this episode of Capital Roots, we sit down with Dr. Donna McAllister, Assistant Professor at Texas Tech University and member of the leadership team for the Texas Alliance for Water Conservation (TAWC). Dr. McAllister shares how researchers and producers are working together to preserve the Ogallala Aquifer—one of our region’s most valuable, yet finite, resources.

From changing cropping practices to evaluating the economics of water use, she offers insight into how science, policy, and stewardship intersect to secure the future of Texas agriculture.

Episode 49: Leading the Next Generation of Agriculture with Dr. Clint Krehbiel

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 13:00:11 GMT

In this episode of Capital Roots, we sit down with Dr. Clint Krehbiel, Dean of the Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources at Texas Tech University. From growing up on his family's Simmental cattle operation in Kansas to leading one of the nation's fastest-rising agricultural colleges, Dr. Krehbiel shares his journey of service, leadership, and vision for the future of ag education.

We explore the pillars of the On and On Campaign, Texas Tech's century-long legacy of serving West Texas, and how hands-on learning and collaboration continue to shape the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Tune in to hear how Davis College is building momentum, fostering innovation, and staying true to its West Texas roots - one student at a time.

Episode 48: Global Pressures, Local Opportunities & Competing in Modern Agriculture with Dr. Darren Hudson

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 18:15:54 GMT

How can U.S. farmers stay competitive in a world where markets move faster than ever and global players like Brazil and China reshape agriculture?

On this episode of Capital Roots, host Clint Cryer sits down with Dr. Darren Hudson, Associate Dean and Director of the of the International Center for Agricultural Competitiveness at Texas Tech University, to unpack what "ag competitiveness" really means - and how U.S. producers can adapt to thrive.

From his humble start in the Texas Panhandle to leading one of the nation's top ag economics centers, Dr. Hudson shares his insights on:

The pressures facing today's commodity markets
What U.S. producers can learn from Brazil's booming ag sector
The role of China in shaping global ag policy
Why technology, creativity, and risk management are key to future profitability

Plus, hear his candid take on cotton demand and why he believes the next five years could bring major opportunity for row-crop producers.

Episode 47: Texas Game Warden Shaun Bayless

Tue, 27 May 2025 16:27:23 GMT

In this episode of Capital Roots, we visit with Shaun Bayless, Fayette County Game Warden with Texas Parks and Wildlife, as he shares what it means to serve rural communities across the state. From the backroads of West Texas to the waters of the Highland Lakes, Shaun reflects on the relationships, responsibilities, and realities of life behind the badge. His story highlights the deep ties between conservation, public trust, and the people who call rural Texas home.

Episode 46: Agricultural and Natural Resources Policy (ANRP) Internship Program at Texas A&M University

Tue, 20 May 2025 13:00:12 GMT

In this episode of Capital Roots, we’re joined by Stephanie Webb '07 and James Palacios '17 to explore the Agricultural and Natural Resources Policy (ANRP) Internship Program at Texas A&M University. A life-changing opportunity for students interested in agriculture and public service, the ANRP program places Aggies in congressional offices and ag organizations in Washington, D.C. and Austin. Stephanie and James—both former interns themselves—share powerful stories of professional growth, policy impact, and how the program continues to shape the next generation of leaders in agriculture.

Episode 45: Beefmaster Breeders United

Thu, 08 May 2025 15:00:29 GMT

In this episode of Capital Roots, we’re joined by Dr. Lance Bauer, Executive Vice President of Beefmaster Breeders United, to explore the history, genetics, and growing global presence of the Beefmaster breed. Developed in South Texas during the 1930s, Beefmasters were built to thrive in tough conditions and are still defined by the Six Essentials: weight, conformation, milk production, fertility, hardiness, and disposition.

Dr. Bauer shares his journey from raising commercial sheep in Ingram, Texas, to leading one of the largest beef breed registries in the U.S. We dive into breed-up programs, junior involvement, and how Beefmasters are meeting the demands of modern cattle production with both grit and genetic advantage.

Episode 44: Justin Putz - Mid-Coast Smackdown

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 17:19:02 GMT

In this episode of Capital Roots, we spotlight Mid-Coast Smackdown—a Texas nonprofit born from a fishing tournament and fueled by a mission to support families with children battling cancer. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a major community event, offering financial relief with no strings attached. Tune in to hear how a passion for fishing turned into a powerful force for good.

Tournament Info:

May 31, 2025 in Rockport, TX

Get Involved

Episode 43: Dr. Jeffrey Savell - Texas A&M University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 16:49:46 GMT

Dr. Jeffrey Savell, Vice Chancellor and Dean for Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University, joins Capital Roots for a candid conversation about leadership, legacy, and the power of people. From his start in meat science to leading one of the University's largest colleges, Dr. Savell shares lessons learned over nearly five decades in higher education. We cover everything from mentorship and trust to student success, hands-on learning, and why the "people business" matters more than ever.

Episode 42: Jennifer Bremer Owen - Texas Land and Mineral Owners Association

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 15:25:31 GMT

Texas landowners are facing new opportunities and challenges in energy, conservation, and land management. In this episode of Capital Roots, Joe and Clint sit down with Jennifer Bremer Owen, Executive Director of the Texas Land and Mineral Owners Association, to break down the key issues shaping the future of land and mineral ownership. From water conservation in West Texas to the rise of lithium extraction, carbon sequestration, and geothermal energy, Jennifer shares expert insights on what these developments mean for landowners today and beyond.

Episode 41: J.C. Essler - Texas Poultry Federation

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 15:24:49 GMT

Texas ranks among the top states in poultry production, but did you know we still don't produce enough eggs to meet demand? In this episode, hosts Joe Patranella and Clint Cryer sit down with J.C. Essler, Executive Vice President of the Texas Poultry Federation, to explore the state's $50 billion poultry industry. From egg production and broiler operations to industry challenges and consumer trends, we're breaking down what it takes to keep Texas poultry moving forward.

Episode 40: Dr. Lynn Krebs - Texas Real Estate Research Center

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 16:03:17 GMT

Texas land markets are shifting, so what's driving the change? In this episode of Capital Roots, Dr. Lynn Krebs from the Texas A&M University Texas Real Estate Research Center unpacks the latest trends, from rising land values to property tax implications and rural real estate demand. He shares expert insights on what's fueling the market, where prices are headed, and what buyers and sellers know. Whether you're a landowner, investor, or just interested in Texas real estate, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Tune in now to stay ahead of the curve!

Episode 39: Tobin Redwine & Madison Harris - Montgomery County Fair and Rodeo

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 15:16:31 GMT

Welcome to another episode of Capital Roots! Today, we're thrilled to sit down with Tobin Redwine, the new executive director of the Montgomery County Fair and Rodeo, and Madison Harris, the marketing and community outreach coordinator. Since 1957, this beloved event has been a hub for agriculture, entertainment, and community connection. Join us as we explore its rich history, exciting events like livestock shows and concerts, and the vital role it plays in supporting the youth and residents of Montgomery County.

Episode 38: Justin Scheiner, Ph.D. - TAMU Extension Viticulture Specialist

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 17:54:14 GMT

In this episode of Capital Roots, Joe and Clint delve into the thriving Texas wine industry with Justin Scheiner, Ph.D., an Associate Professor and Extension Viticulture Specialist at Texas A&M University. Explore how the Lone Star State has become home to over 800 wineries and discover the unique grape varieties that flourish in Texas. Join us as we uncover the vital connection between agriculture and viticulture, the importance of traceability in your wine, and insights that will deepen your appreciation for Texas' wine industry.

Episode 37: Paul Maulsby - American Brahman Breeders Association

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 20:58:04 GMT

In this episode of Capital Roots, Joe and Clint dive into the world of Brahman cattle with special guest Paul Maulsby, Executive Vice President of the American Brahman Breeders Association. Explore the breed's rich history, unique traits, and their significant role in sustainable agriculture. Paul shares his expert insights into how Brahman cattle have adapted to diverse climates, their impact on global beef production, and why they're key to the future of ranching.

Episode 36: Dane Swinburn - Tule Creek Outfitters

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 14:00:08 GMT

In this episode of Capital Roots, Joe and Clint welcome Dane Swinburn from Tule Creek Outfitters and explore the captivating intersection of agriculture and hunting. Dane shares his journey from growing up on a cotton farm in Tulia, TX to running a successful hunting operation in both Texas and Saskatchewan, Canada. Listeners will gain insights into the unique experiences offered in field hunting for ducks, geese, and the rising trend of sandhill crane hunting.

Episode 35: Bryan Rose & Koby Reed - Fat Tire Cowboys

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 21:07:12 GMT

In this episode of Capital Roots, hosts Joe Patranella and Clint Cryer welcome Bryan Rose and Koby Reed from Fat Tire Cowboys, an aviation adventure brand. Listen along as they discuss their passion for flying and the unique experiences that come with it, including the thrill of flying small planes and the responsibility that pilots carry. The conversation also touches on the origins of their brand, the joy of capturing breathtaking aerial views, and the camaraderie within the flying community.

Episode 34: Sam Middleton - Chas. S. Middleton & Son

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 21:07:07 GMT

This week's episode of Capital Roots welcomes Texas legend, Mr. Sam Middleton of Chas. S. Middleton & Son as he shares his remarkable journey in real estate and ranching. Drawing on over 50 years of experience, Sam recounts fascinating stories from his family's legacy, including the sale of the largest contiguous ranch in the U.S., the Wagner Ranch, and the iconic Four Sixes Ranch. Sam also discusses the evolving ranch market, the importance of preserving agricultural heritage, and offers a sneak peek into his upcoming book, "Swapping Dirt.".

Episode 33: David Gibson & Stephanie Pruitt - Texas Corn Producers

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 17:44:42 GMT

On this week's episode of Capital Roots, Joe and Clint sit down with David Gibson, Executive Director, and Stephanie Pruitt, Communications Director, of Texas Corn Producers for a deep dive into Texas corn and agriculture. Stephanie shares her background in agriculture and her role managing marketing and PR for the organization. David, with over 25 years at Texas Corn Producers, offers insights into his work with farm families and the importance of managing issues like aflatoxin in corn production. They also discuss internship opportunities, crop insurance, and how checkoff funds are shaping the future of corn farming in Texas.

Episode 32 - Recaping Seasons 1, 2 & 3 with Clint & Joe

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 19:08:32 GMT

LIsten in as Joe and Clint take a walk down memory lane and revisit all of the fantastic guests that have joined the Capital Roots Podcast over the last three season.

Episode 31 - Mark Hefner, Plateau Land & Wildlife Management

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 13:00:31 GMT

In this episode, meet Mark Hefner with Plateau Land & Wildlife Management. Plateau Land & Wildlife Management has been helping rural landowners protect and enhance their rural land since 1997. Plateau was born out of a law that was passed in 1995 by the Texas Legislature that made it possible for folks with an ag valuation to maintain their same property tax savings while managing for native habitat and wildlife, instead of livestock, crops, timber or any other open-space management requirements.

Episode 30 - Jason Cleere, PhD, Texas A&M University

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 13:00:30 GMT

On this episode of Capital Roots, we are joined by Jason Cleere, PhD, associate professor and Texas AgriLife Extension beef cattle specialist at Texas A&M University. He shares the beginnings of the annual Beef Cattle Short Course and what to expect at this year's event.

Episode 29 - Dan Hunter & Addie Stone, Texas Department of Agriculture

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 13:00:17 GMT

On this episode of Capital Roots, we explore the Texas Department of Agriculture, dig into the many programs and services they offer, and learn more about Dan Hunter, Assistant Commissioner for Communications and Trade and Business Development.

Episode 28 - Jimmy Ropolo & Cameron Roehl, UnitedAg

Tue, 28 May 2024 12:30:18 GMT

United Agricultural Cooperative Inc. is the result of several ag cooperatives merging along the Texas Gulf Coast over the previous century. Today, United Ag’s membership consists of 1,165 farmers, ranchers and landowners involved in agricultural production. Join us for this episode to learn more about the history of UnitedAg and how it has evolved into the business it is today.

Episode 27 - Marcela Garcia & Galen Franz, U.S. Rice Producers Association

Tue, 14 May 2024 12:50:20 GMT

In this episode of Capital Roots, we talk with Marcela Garcia and Galen Franz. Marcela is the CEO of the U.S. Rice Producers Association and Galen Franz is a member of the board of directors. The US Rice Producers Association, representing rice producers in Arkansas, California, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and Texas, is the only national rice producers’ organization comprised by producers, elected by producers and representing producers in all six rice-producing states.

Episode 26 - Donnell and Tucker Brown, R.A. Brown Ranch

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 15:56:25 GMT

Donnell Brown and Tucker Brown of the R.A. Brown family and R.A. Brown Ranch, have been ranching in Texas since 1895. They have a deep and rich history of raising top quality Quarter Horses and registered and commercial cattle. Join us for this episode and learn more about their unique past and current operation.

Episode 25 - Maycon Moura, Moura Stock Dogs

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 03:12:36 GMT

In episode 25 of Capital Roots, we talk with Maycon Moura with Moura Stock Dogs. He shares with us his background in dog breeding and training, some of the benefits of using dogs for working cattle, and updates on his RFD TV show.

Episode 24 - Windsor Godfrey, Texas FFA, 2022-23 Past President

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 22:00:30 GMT

On this episode of Capital Roots, we talk with Windsor Godfrey, a Texas FFA past president. She shares her unconventional path to joining FFA and eventually becoming the Texas state president for the 2022-23 school year. She shares her unique perspective on the impact FFA had on her life and her future.

Episode 23 - Karlee Peterson, Executive Producer, The Cowboy Channel

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 17:56:27 GMT

On the 23rd episode of Capital Roots, we visit with Karlee Peterson, Executive Producer of The Cowboy Channel and The Cowgirl Channel. She shares some of history of the network, as well as what we are going to see into the spring and summer of 2024.

Episode 22 - Jackie Simmonds, San Antonio Rodeo & Stock Show Assis. Vice President

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 15:14:36 GMT

On this week's episode, we visit with Jackie Simmonds, a San Antonio Rodeo & Stock Show Assis. Vice President, volunteer leadership, to learn more about what to expect at this year's rodeo!

Episode 21: Wade Lowery of Lowery Farms

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 22:00:50 GMT

On this episode of Capital Roots, we visit with Wade Lowery. Wade is a fifth-generation cattle operator in South Texas. He talks to us about his box beef operation, ranching operation and more.

Episode 20: Michelle "Mitch" Smith, President of Texas Association of Licensed Brokers

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 14:58:47 GMT

On this episode of Capital Roots, we get an inside look at the Texas Association of Licensed Brokers and how they are supporting brokers in Texas. We also learn a little about Mitch Smith and Reata Ranch Realty Group.

Brad Wuest - Natural Bridge Caverns

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 01:53:19 GMT

In this episode of Capital Roots we visit with Brad Wuest, President and CEO of Natural Bridge Caverns. We learn about the history of the caves and what is currently going on at the caverns for the holidays.

Tim Lust - CEO, National Sorghum Producers

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 22:32:24 GMT

On this episode of Capital Roots, we visit with Tim Lust, the CEO of National Sorghum Producers. He shares his own agricultural background and a bit more about the National Sorghum Producers organization.

Episode 17: Jack Cowen - YBS Cattle Producer

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 21:26:25 GMT

Meet Jack Cowen, owner of Cowen Cattle Company and Capital Farm Credit customer, a 4th generation rancher shares with us more about his operation and how he made his way from Florida to Texas.

Episode 16: Jim Brett Campbell - Ranching Heritage Center

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 16:50:20 GMT

Jim Brett Campbell shares what the Ranching Heritage Center is, the history of it, some upcoming exhibits and more.

Episode 15: Tiffany Dowell Lashmet - Texas A&M AgriLife Extension

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 15:38:30 GMT

Tiffany Dowell Lashmet is an attorney, Associate Professor & Extension Specialist with Texas AgriLife Extension for Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. In this episode of Capital Roots, she discusses the importance of succession planning for the ag industry.

Episode 14: Dru & Bo Stevens, Pleasure Lake Farms

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 13:52:50 GMT

Pleasure Lake Farms is a family farm and garden run by Dru and Bo Stevens on the Texas/New Mexico border. Dru and Bo share how they got started in the business and some of the tips and tricks they've learned along the way.

Episode 13 - David Kohl, PhD - Professor Emeritus of Agricultural Finance and Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship at Virginia Tech

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 13:33:05 GMT

Join us for the first episode of Season 2 and hear from Dr. David Kohl, Professor Emeritus of Agricultural Finance and Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship at Virginia Tech. He was in town for our AgriRoots YBS Conference and stopped by to visit.

Episode 12 - Tommy Engelke - Texas Agricultural Cooperative Council Executive Director

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 16:37:24 GMT

On this episode of Capital Roots, we visit with Tommy Engelke, Executive Director of the Texas Agricultural Cooperative Council. The Texas Agricultural Cooperative Council (TACC) is a voluntary statewide industry association created by Texas cooperatives themselves in 1934 to serve as a collective voice, catalyst and clearing house on all co-op activities in the state.

Episode 11 - Michael Vu - A Look Inside Texas Poultry Operations

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 20:32:40 GMT

On this episode, we visit with Michael Vu, a Texas Poultry Operator. He shares with us how a poultry operation works, including his successes and challenges.

Episode 10 - Joe Outlaw, PhD and Bart Fischer, PhD

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 19:09:32 GMT

On this episode of Capital Roots, Dr. Joe Outlaw and Dr. Bart Fischer, co-directors of the Agricultural and Food Policy Center at Texas A&M discuss the 2023 Farm Bill and more.

Episode 9 - Bob and Kelly Phillips - The Texas Country Reporter

Fri, 26 May 2023 17:39:28 GMT

In this episode of Capital Roots, we learn the behind the scenes of The Texas Country Reporter and some of the most memorable stories they have told.

Episode 8 - John Jones - Lochow Ranch Pond and Lake Mgmt.

Fri, 26 May 2023 17:39:37 GMT

In this episode of Capital Roots, we talk with John Jones, President of Lochow Ranch Pond and Lake Management, about the pond and lake management industry and how it supports agriculture.

Episode 7 - Blair Krebs - Texas Pecan Growers Association

Tue, 02 May 2023 18:38:33 GMT

Join us on this episode and learn more about the Texas pecan industry and how the Texas Pecan Growers Association supports growers across the state.

Episode 6 - Emily Lochner and Scott Williamson - Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 13:52:47 GMT

Join us as we learn more about what the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association supports cattle ranchers across Texas and more!

Episode 5 - David Brimager - Texas Wildlife Association

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 12:00:30 GMT

Join us for a discussion with David Brimager, where we learn more about the work that Texas Wildlife Association does for Texas, and how it supports agriculture.

Episode 4 - Kevin Brinkley - Plains Cotton Cooperative Association

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 14:01:17 GMT

Kevin Brinkley, President and CEO of Plains Cotton Cooperative Association, joins us to talk about the cotton cooperative and the process of cotton to textile mills worldwide.

Episode 3 - Chris Boleman, Ph.D. - Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 15:00:55 GMT

Dr. Chris Boleman, Ph.D., President and CEO of the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, joins us to share how the livestock show and rodeo promotes agriculture through education and entertainment.

Episode 2 - Dr. Billy Zanolini and Dr. Elsa Murano - Borlaug Youth in Agriculture Program

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 16:27:01 GMT

In this episode, we'll learn who Dr. Norman Borlaug is and how his legacy is continuing right here in the heart of Texas.

Episode 1 - Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz and the Tall Program

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 14:23:30 GMT

Dr. Jim Mazurkiewicz, Director of the Texas Agricultural Lifetime Leadership Program, joins us to share what the program is and how it impacts agriculture.