Season 5 of the Grain on the Brain Podcast is now live!

We're pleased to announce that the first half of Season 5 is officially live! Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn about the latest in organics. This season features farmers, researchers, and industry professionals. Click the links below to listen to the latest episode, or listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Livestock Integration Revisited featuring Ward Middleton, Midmore Farms

Season 5, Episode 1

In 2021, Ward Middleton shared how he began integrating livestock onto his land by working with neighbouring cattle producers—a practice that supports nutrient cycling, builds organic matter, and reduces wind erosion. In this follow-up episode, Ward reflects on what he's learned since then. From fine-tuning grazing partnerships to understanding soil responses over time, we dive into the successes, the challenges, and the insights he's gained along the way.

Nutrient Budgeting featuring Dr. Joanne Thiessen Martens

Season 5, Episode 2

Learn how the Nutrient Budgeting Web App helps farmers track nutrient flows, improve soil health, and reduce losses. Dr. Joanne Thiessen Martens shares insights on sustainable nutrient management and building resilience in prairie cropping systems.

Farming Phosphorus featuring Ian Cushon, Moose Creek Organic Farm

Season 5, Episode 3

In this episode, host Scott Beaton talks with Saskatchewan-based farmer Ian about how he manages phosphorus on his farm and the lessons learned from test plots conducted with Dr. Martin Entz at the University of Manitoba. They explore why phosphorus remains a limiting nutrient, what on-farm research is revealing, and how recycled, slow-release struvite could offer a new path for sustainable phosphorus inputs. This conversation blends practical farm experience with emerging research to highlight real solutions for phosphorus-deficient soils.

Transitioning to Organic featuring Melanie Rivard at AgDays, Organic inspector and Evaluator

Season 5, Episode 4

In this episode, we sit down with Melanie Rivard live at Manitoba Ag Days 2026 to explore the first steps and how to get started with organic certification. Melanie shares insights from her experience working with farmers as an organic inspector, the barriers commonly faced, and the practical considerations involved in gaining and managing organic certification.

More episodes coming soon!