The Ag Executive

In Episode 34 of The Ag Executive, host Jay Visser sits down with Tom Burchell, president and CEO of Burchell Nursery, to discuss the decisions growers should make before investing in a new almond orchard.

Burchell breaks down what growers need to consider when evaluating varieties and rootstocks, from long-term water availability and soil conditions to handler requirements, orchard preparation and budget. He also discusses the growing interest in self-fertile almond varieties, how growers should interpret yield data and why promising new varieties need years of evaluation under commercial conditions.

The conversation also explores Nonpareil Plus, a self-fertile Nonpareil currently under evaluation, and the potential management advantages of single-variety orchards. For growers considering a 2027 replant, Burchell closes with five key questions to answer before ordering trees: water, market, soil, timing and budget.

In Episode 33 of the Ag Executive Podcast, Jay Visser sits down with Nick Bancroft, president and CEO of AgroLiquid, to discuss leading a third-generation family business through market volatility, innovation and the evolving agricultural landscape. Bancroft shares how growing up in the family business shaped his leadership style, why culture and accountability matter, and how AgroLiquid is investing in soil health, biologicals and grower profitability while navigating today's uncertain fertilizer market.

Chyann Stiles sits down with Chris Devers at the 46th Annual Meeting of UnitedAg to discuss how Rancho Cielo is helping at-risk youth build careers through trade education, workforce development and community support. The conversation also explores the organization’s partnership with UnitedAg and why communities across California are taking notice of the Rancho Cielo model. 

In this episode of The Ag Executive Podcast, Chyann Stiles sits down with Eric Bream, UnitedAg board chair and a fourth-generation citrus grower in Tulare and Madera counties. Bream shares how he returned to his family farm after a career outside agriculture, the changes he has made to modernize the operation and why UnitedAg’s mission of providing health care solutions for agriculture continues to matter as the organization grows. 

Jeff Merrit, CEO of Axiom Ag, joins the Ag Exec Podcast for a conversation on leadership, innovation, and the realities of running a modern agricultural business. From growth strategy to industry change, Jeff offers perspective on what it takes to lead effectively and stay ahead in a competitive market. Tune in for practical insight on the business side of agriculture and the mindset required to move an organization forward.

Ryan Jacobsen, CEO of the Fresno County Farm Bureau, joins Jason Scott to discuss the evolving role of ag advocacy, key challenges facing growers including SGMA, labor and rising input costs, and how farmers can better engage in policy and public conversations. He also shares insights on leadership in today’s ag landscape and where innovation and technology fit into the future of farming. 

Brendan O’Donnell, CEO and president of DFA of California, joins Jay Visser to discuss evolving food safety risks, audit fatigue and the growing role of data and technology in protecting product quality. He shares insights on building a strong food safety culture, navigating shifting customer expectations and how DFA is helping members manage compliance, training and long-term risk in California agriculture.

Reid Robinson, CEO of Sierra Gold Nursery, joins Jason Scott to discuss leading through agricultural market cycles, making long-term capital decisions in permanent crops and building a culture rooted in quality and consistency. He shares insights on managing volatility, investing in high-value crops, maintaining customer trust and positioning ag businesses for steady, sustainable growth.

Jason Scott sits down with Robert Verloop at the 2026 California Walnut Conference to discuss global market shifts, domestic demand opportunities, rising production costs, and strategies to strengthen the long-term stability of California’s walnut industry.

World Ag Expo Chairman Ron Clark discusses the Expo’s innovation, global reach, regulatory challenges, and its role in advancing California agriculture through technology, education, and international collaboration in Tulare County.