Breaking Barriers with R&D

How do you choose the right hybrids, maximize yield potential and make better decisions with your harvest data? On this episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, Randy Dowdy and David Hula welcome Alex Peterson of Pioneer to discuss the science and strategy behind higher-yielding crops. The conversation explores phantom yield loss in corn, the impact of harvest moisture on test weight, and why yield monitor data doesn't always tell the whole story. Peterson also shares insights on evaluating hybrid performance, using paired comparison trials, managing disease pressure and understanding the role of genetics in yield stability. Plus, the group discusses the future of seed technology, including multi-disease resistance, faster emergence and the importance of looking beyond yield when selecting hybrids. From better data collection to smarter management decisions, this episode offers practical insights to help farmers unlock more yield potential and improve ROI.

On this episode of Breaking Barriers, Randy Dowdy and David Hula discuss the decisions that can make or break a growing season, from establishing successful cover crops to selecting the right corn hybrids for next year. The conversation covers cover crop planting methods, managing weed pressure, and why proper seed-to-soil contact matters. Randy and David also share lessons from this year's hybrid performance, explaining why farmers should evaluate on-farm strip trials, compare seed brands, and avoid putting too much acreage into unproven hybrids. Plus, they discuss tightening wheat seed supplies, changing grain market conditions, harvest results, and the importance of making informed marketing decisions. As harvest season ramps up, Randy shares a personal accident that serves as a powerful reminder to prioritize safety around farm equipment and in the field. Tune in for practical insights on managing risk, making smarter agronomic decisions, and staying safe during one of the busiest times of the year.

Randy Dowdy and David Hula sit down for another wide-ranging conversation about harvest, crop performance and the lessons they’re taking into next season. With corn harvest underway, the pair discuss strong yields, genetics and fungicide performance, managing grain handling challenges and what this year’s crop is teaching them. They also dive into an intriguing question: Can wheat be planted with a precision planter instead of a traditional grain drill to improve depth control and emergence? Randy and David explore 15-inch-row wheat, singulation, starter fertilizer, biological products and the potential impact of more uniform emergence and tillering. The conversation also looks ahead to 2027, including wheat and double-crop soybean opportunities, phosphorus management, grain sorghum, equipment decisions and the importance of challenging conventional thinking. Plus, Randy shares updates from the deer operation, including fawn vaccinations, weaning and the challenges of handling mature bucks. From harvest headaches to new planting strategies, this episode is all about learning from the field, testing new ideas and finding the next opportunity to push yields and profitability forward.  

Potassium is often overlooked compared with nitrogen, but it plays a critical role in water management, nutrient movement, photosynthesis, stalk strength and overall crop performance. In this episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, Randy Dowdy and David Hula are joined by Dr. Karl Wyatt, Director of Agronomy at Nutrien, for a deep dive into potassium and potash management. The discussion covers soil testing, base saturation vs. parts-per-million measurements, fertilizer sources including potash, potassium sulfate and potassium nitrate, application timing, chloride sensitivity, variable-rate applications and the role of potassium in nitrogen-use efficiency. The group also explores how high-yield growers can use yield maps and soil fertility data to build more customized fertility programs for their farms. As growers begin making fertility decisions for 2027, this conversation offers practical insight into how potassium fits into a complete nutrient-management strategy—and why understanding what's already in your soil is the first step. Breaking Barriers with R&D is hosted by Randy Dowdy and David Hula and focuses on the agronomic practices, technology and management strategies helping growers push yield and improve ROI.

Randy Dowdy and David Hula dive into the challenges farmers are seeing in the field, from long and drooping ear shanks to inconsistent planting depth and hybrid performance. They discuss why farmers should look beyond yield when selecting seed, the importance of planter setup and emergence, and how harvest timing, soybean maturity and desiccation can help protect yield and grain quality. Plus, the two share insights from recent field visits across the Midwest and Southeast.

Randy Dowdy and David Hula discuss what farmers should be looking for as harvest approaches, from inconsistent planting depth and weed pressure to disease, ear development, hybrid selection and crop stress. 

This episode of Breaking Barriers with Randy Dowdy and David Hula covers the latest crop conditions across the country, while also taking a deep dive into Pioneer's 100 years of innovation with special guest Gabe Bathen. The conversation begins with field updates from Georgia and Virginia, where Dowdy and Hula discuss early corn harvest, soybean progress, irrigation challenges, and the importance of building soil fertility instead of relying solely on in-season foliar applications. They explain why investing in soil health and nutrient balance remains one of the best long-term strategies for maximizing yield and profitability. Later, Gabe Bethen from Pioneer joins the show to celebrate the company's centennial and preview the next generation of corn genetics. The discussion explores new breeding technologies, improved disease resistance, stronger stalks, enhanced yield stability, and how future hybrids are being developed to help farmers manage increasingly unpredictable weather and disease pressure. The episode wraps up with an update on tar spot, southern rust, and other late-season disease concerns, along with practical advice for protecting yield as corn harvest gets underway. Throughout the conversation, Randy & David emphasize that successful farming starts with healthy soils, sound agronomy, and adopting innovations that deliver long-term returns.

On this episode of Breaking Barriers, Randy Dowdy and David Hula share observations from their latest field visits across Nebraska, Iowa, Virginia, and Georgia, highlighting the mid-season decisions that can make or break profitability. The duo explains why late herbicide applications may be costing soybean yield potential, how tissue sampling reveals hidden crop stress, and why protecting early flowers is critical for maximizing returns. They also discuss southern rust preparedness, fungicide timing, spray coverage, irrigation challenges, planter performance, and emerging precision agriculture technologies. Whether you're managing soybeans, corn, or planning ahead for harvest, this episode is packed with practical agronomic insights to help you improve every acre and every decision.

As fungicide season approaches, Randy Dowdy and David Hula welcome aerial applicator Matt Crabbe for a deep dive into spray application technology. Fresh off a multi-day "Operation Safe Fly" demonstration, Crabbe compares drones, helicopters, and fixed-wing aircraft, sharing surprising results on droplet size, spray drift, swath width, and canopy penetration. The conversation also covers weather challenges across the Corn Belt, crop conditions, disease pressure, and why proper application coverage can make or break returns in a tight-margin year. Whether you're considering drone applications or relying on traditional aerial spraying, this episode offers practical insights to help maximize every acre.   Learn More About Matt Crabbe Aviation Here: https://mattcrabbeaviation.com

In this episode of Breaking Barriers, Randy Dowdy and David Hula compare notes from recent crop tours across the Corn Belt and discuss what they're seeing in fields from Georgia to Nebraska. From improved planting depths and stronger root development to concerns about moisture, nutrient uptake, and crown health, the duo shares practical observations that could impact yield potential throughout the growing season.

In this episode of Breaking Barriers, Randy Dowdy and David Hula dive into the agronomic details that separate average crops from exceptional ones. From planter setup and seed depth to fertility placement, irrigation strategies, and crop protection, the duo shares real-world observations gathered while visiting growers across Kentucky, Delaware, Georgia, and beyond. They discuss why uniform emergence remains one of the biggest drivers of profitability, how growers are adapting to dry conditions and changing weather patterns, and why attention to detail matters more than ever in today’s high-cost environment. Randy and David also break down in-season nitrogen strategies, the importance of protecting root systems, and how irrigation can be used as a management tool far beyond simply supplying water. Plus, the conversation touches on grower networking, learning from early adopters, managing crop stress during hot and cloudy conditions, and preparing for disease pressure later in the season. Whether you’re planting late, side-dressing nitrogen, or evaluating fungicide timing, this episode delivers practical insights to help farmers think differently and focus on measurable improvement across every acre.

On this episode of Breaking Barriers, Randy Dowdy and David Hula sit down with Todd Dale of Estes Performance Concaves for an in-depth conversation about combine performance, harvest efficiency, and protecting yield potential.

In this episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, Randy Dowdy and David Hula break down the harsh reality farmers are facing across the country right now—extreme weather swings that are already impacting the 2026 crop. From severe drought in the South to flooded fields in the North, this season is shaping up to be a story of “haves and have-nots.” With some growers stopping planting altogether due to dry conditions, while others are battling excess moisture, the challenges are stacking up fast. Despite the uncertainty, the message is clear: control what you can early, and adjust as the season unfolds.

In this episode of Breaking Barriers, Randy Dowdy and David Hula challenge farmers to rethink traditional practices and focus on what truly drives performance and profitability. Too often, operations fall into routine—doing things the way they’ve always been done. But the most successful farmers separate themselves by being intentional, disciplined, and data-driven in every decision they make. Randy and David dig into the importance of proactive management, dialing in input efficiency, and focusing on return on investment—not just yield. They also emphasize the power of mindset, accountability, and eliminating excuses by concentrating on controllable factors. The episode reinforces that success isn’t about one big change—it’s about stacking small, consistent improvements that compound over time into major gains.

This episode blends technical farming strategies with personal stories from the field. Randy shares the pride and connection built through his son Easton’s hunting success, highlighting the importance of family traditions alongside farm life. David breaks down the precision practices behind high yields, including tissue sampling, early stand establishment, and overcoming equipment challenges.

In this episode of Breaking Barriers, lifelong farmers and Total Acre founders Randy Dowdy and David Hula share practical agronomic insights designed to challenge farmers to think differently about productivity and profitability. While widely recognized for producing record-breaking corn and soybean yields, their true focus is maximizing profit on every acre through continual, measurable improvement.  Randy and David tackle the realities of modern farming—from the frustrations and occasional wins of new technology to the mounting pressure of rising input costs like seed, fertilizer, and equipment. The episode dives deep into the advantages of strip-till systems, sharing real-world experiences with soybeans, cover crops, fertilizer placement, and equipment setups that improve efficiency in challenging field conditions.

In this episode, Randy and David discuss shifting weather patterns and planting readiness, global market challenges as Brazil surpasses the U.S. in production, and the mounting pressure of soft commodity prices. They tackle the growing concern around corn seed shortages and how limited hybrid availability is impacting even the most experienced growers. Special guest David Simpson breaks down strategic crop insurance decisions, including upcoming flexibility with the Supplemental Coverage Option (SCO) in 2026 and how the Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO) can provide added protection. The conversation also delivers practical, actionable steps—from seed sample testing and updating APH yields to selecting enterprise units for cost savings.

In the latest episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, Randy Dowdy and David Hula tackle a variety of topics this week ranging from weather challenges, farm management, weather challenges, and much more. This episode offers plenty of invaluable takeaways.

In this episode, Randy and David unpack how farmers are approaching 2026 with a sharper eye on cost control—rethinking fertilizer rates, evaluating underperforming land, and navigating sudden commodity market swings. They also discuss real-world preparedness, from bracing for severe winter weather and power outages to ensuring families and farms are ready when conditions turn extreme.

In this episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, the duo digs into the fundamentals reminding us that success still starts with the basics. From dialing in soil pH and fertility without overspending, to why planter performance remains the biggest untapped opportunity on most farms, Randy and David break down where measurable improvements really come from. They share real-world examples of equipment inspections, planter upgrades, and maintenance details that directly impact uniform emergence and yield. You’ll also hear how on-farm trials, factory visits, and testing innovative tools—like advanced closing systems and fertilizer application methods—help uncover practical solutions that move the needle.

Join Randy Dowdy and David Hula on Breaking Barriers with R&D as they break down today’s biggest ag challenges and opportunities—from economic and policy pressures to extreme weather, pests, and disease. With guests from Golden Harvest, the episode spotlights new corn and soybean genetics, including Durastack® rootworm control, 2026 product innovations, and practical strategies for boosting ROI. Packed with real-world insights on seed technology, planting timing, fertility, and data-driven decisions, this conversation offers growers a forward-looking take on the future of farming.

In this special Thanksgiving episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, lifelong farmers and Total Acre founders Randy Dowdy and David Hula open up about the deeper foundations that sustain them—far beyond agronomy. While they’re known for pushing the limits of corn and soybean yields, Randy and David use this conversation to reflect on the gifts that truly matter: faith, community, and the people who walk beside us through every season. They explore the power of active giving, gratitude for intangible blessings, and how faith anchors them through life’s hardest trials. From stories of uniform crop emergence and game-changing technologies to deeply personal experiences—Randy’s son’s recovery and David’s loss of both parents—the duo shares how resilience is grown through support, prayer, and honest connection. Randy and David also shine a light on mental health across farming communities, encouraging listeners to reach out, lift each other up, and never face challenges alone. Whether you're focused on profit per acre or personal growth, this episode offers encouragement, perspective, and hope for every farmer striving for continual, measurable improvement.

In this episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, lifelong farmers and Total Acre founders Randy Dowdy and David Hula dig deep into the realities of pushing agricultural boundaries—both in the field and on the balance sheet. Joined by innovative grower Alex Harrell, the trio breaks down what it really takes to pursue continual, measurable improvement on every acre. Alex shares behind-the-scenes insights from an ambitious 141-plot corn and soybean trial powered by a custom-built sprayer. From standout performers like Redox products to the frustrating setbacks caused by deer pressure, torrential rains, and trial variability, he offers a candid look at both the promise and pitfalls of large-scale experimentation. Randy underscores the importance of precision in soil management, urging growers to rethink lime application by studying base saturation levels—rather than relying on cost or convenience—to build healthier, more productive soils. Finally, the hosts confront the financial strain facing today’s farmers, from rising input costs to unsustainable land rents. They explore strategies growers are using to stay profitable, including reducing rented acres, investing in land grading, and reevaluating every dollar spent.  Tune in to learn how top producers navigate agronomic complexity, wildlife pressure, and financial headwinds—proving that breaking barriers requires both innovation and resilience.

In this episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, lifelong farmers and founders of Total Acre, Randy Dowdy and David Hula, explore how technology, genetics, and innovation continue to redefine what’s possible on the farm. Joined by special guest Mary Gumz, the conversation dives into the evolving ag landscape — from disease and pest management to groundbreaking corporate shifts and emerging tools for crop protection. Learn how collaboration, adaptability, and continuous improvement drive record-breaking success and profitability. Discover strategies for tackling southern rust, tar spot, and pest pressures, and get a firsthand look at how advancements in fungicide timing, hybrid selection, and genetic innovation are shaping the future of farming.

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.

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.

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.

In this episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, lifelong farmers and Total Acre founders Randy Dowdy and David Hula tackle one of the biggest threats to your yield: crop disease. From early detection of Southern Rust and tar spot to maximizing kernel weight through strategic nutrition and management, this episode is packed with actionable insights to protect and improve your bottom line. Discover why ground rig fungicide applications outperform drones, how proactive tissue sampling can expose hidden vulnerabilities, and why building strong farmer networks like Total Acre can elevate your operation. Plus, learn why industry and academia need to step up their game in disease communication.

In this powerful episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, lifelong farmers and Total Acre founders Randy Dowdy and David Hula dive deep into the agronomic realities behind record-breaking yields—and why chasing bushels isn’t the ultimate goal. Instead, it’s all about maximizing profitability per acre through data-driven decisions, proactive management, and real-world field experience. Randy and David break down what they’ve learned from walking thousands of acres, analyzing trial results, and talking with leading experts like Ken Berry. They reveal eye-opening insights—from a shocking 50-bushel yield swing due to planter variability, to widespread hybrid ear shank issues that are forcing growers to rethink their seed choices. They also spotlight underestimated threats like southern rust and tar spot—and explain how ignoring these diseases could be costing you more than you realize.

In this episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, Randy Dowdy and David Hula sit down with Marion Calmer, a fourth-generation farmer, seasoned independent on-farm researcher, and founder of Calmer Corn Heads. Calmer shares how his innovative BT Chopper transforms residue management in no-till systems by accelerating cornstalk breakdown, improving soil health, and boosting nutrient cycling. The conversation dives into practical solutions for excessive residue, using stubble height to prevent blow-off, and addressing nutrient stratification to ensure phosphorus and potassium reach plant roots. Calmer also reflects on his passion for restoring vintage farm equipment, connecting modern innovations to the deep-rooted traditions of agriculture.

In this episode of Breaking Barriers, Total Acre founders Randy Dowdy and David Hula unpack key agronomic lessons from recent field visits in Kentucky and Michigan—where heat stress and planter issues are top of mind. They break down persistent crop management challenges, including inconsistent planting depths and the impact of tight tassel wrap on corn performance. Learn how targeted fertility strategies like 2x2 and in-furrow applications can combat nutrient deficiencies, and why protecting critical leaves late in the season could be the difference between good and great yields. Whether you’re chasing records or improving margins, this episode will help you think differently and farm more precisely.

In this episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, Total Acre founders Randy Dowdy and David Hula dig deep into strategies that move the needle on farm profitability. From spreading risk with smart hybrid splits to proactively managing disease threats like tar spot, they share hands-on insights every farmer can apply. Discover why genetic observation matters, how cover crops improve soil health, and what advocacy efforts are keeping crop insurance strong. Whether you're chasing big yields or sustainable gains, this episode gives you the agronomic edge to break barriers on every acre.

In this episode of Breaking Barriers, Total Acre founders Randy Dowdy and David Hula are joined by Matt Crabbe of Crabbe Aviation, who brings 40 years of aerial application experience to the table. Together, they explore how precision agriculture is evolving—from post-tassel fungicide strategies and one-acre grid sampling to the critical role of pilot-farmer communication. Learn why airplanes still outpace drones, how to tackle crop threats like tar spot and stalk rot, and how soil variability and planting depth can make or break yield potential. If you’re serious about ROI per acre, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you farm smarter, not harder.

In this week’s episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, lifelong farmers and Total Acre founders Randy Dowdy and David Hula dive into the latest agronomic strategies to help you achieve higher yields and better profits. Hear their insights on why experimenting with different farming practices — from precision planting to timely pest control — is key to overcoming unpredictable weather and boosting crop potential. Randy and David share actionable tips on effective late-stage nutrient applications, the critical role of water quality in spraying, and advanced soil health practices like strip tilling and cover cropping. They also highlight the long-term value of improving soil biology and strategically timing fertilization for a more resilient farm. Don’t miss this masterclass on continual, measurable improvement — and discover the next steps for your farm’s success.

In this insightful episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, David Hula is joined by farmers Caleb Wolters and Alex Harrell, the three share agronomic breakthroughs that challenge conventional thinking. They discuss how precision singulation during soybean planting can increase yields by up to 64%, highlight the latest advancements in drone spraying technology for cost-effective farming, and delve into the pivotal role of soil biology. Plus, they share practical insights from crop tours across multiple states and innovative grain storage solutions like grain bags for improved farm profitability and resilience.

In this episode of Breaking Barriers with R&D, Randy Dowdy and David Hula dive into the critical steps farmers must take to push boundaries in modern agriculture. Renowned for their record-breaking corn and soybean yields, the duo shifts the spotlight to their true mission—driving profit on every acre through data-driven, disciplined farming. This week, they unpack the essentials of assessing yield potential, including tissue sampling and field blueprints, and explore how to adapt fundamentals in the face of volatile weather. They share success stories from farms in Georgia to Michigan, while also detailing unique challenges like sudden frosts and fawn-raising in wet weather. The conversation tackles the economic pressure of rising input costs, strategies for entering non-GMO markets, and underscores the value of community support and mental health in agriculture.

In this episode of Breaking Barriers, we dig into the details that drive better yields—from optimizing planting equipment and closing systems to managing compaction and crop timing with GDUs. Hear real-world insights on strip tilling, nutrient placement, and why on-farm trials are key to farming smarter, not harder. Lifelong farmers and founders of Total Acre, Randy Dowdy and David Hula share their Breaking Barriers agronomic insights to challenge farmers to think differently. While known for growing record-breaking corn and soybean yields, their primary focus is maximizing profits on every acre. Learn from the duo to focus on continual, measurable improvement on your farm.

In this episode of Breaking Barriers with R and D, Randy Dowdy and David Hula dive into the latest innovations shaping modern agriculture. From emerging technologies to ongoing challenges, they explore how today’s farmers are leveraging science and strategy to push yield boundaries. The duo breaks down the impact of seed depth and shares how data-driven planting strategies can unlock maximum yields. Joining the conversation is Bryce Mericka, Total Acre’s Trial Data & Analytics Manager, who offers insight into how Total Acre is transforming the ag industry. Through their cutting-edge Yield Management Software (YMS), they’re empowering growers nationwide with actionable data and powerful decision-making tools. 

Welcome to the debut episode of "Breaking Barriers," a new podcast hosted by yield champions Randy Dowdy and David Hula. Breaking Barriers is all about giving growers timely, practical insights to increase profitability. In this inaugural episode, we sit down with Nebraska farmer Randy Hughes, who opens about how he manages pivots and water resources, and how the Total Acre program transformed his approach to fertility and tissue testing. Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your inputs or just learn from other top producers, this episode is packed with real-world tips.