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Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. What do you do when yesterday’s dryer settings aren’t producing today’s results? When incoming moisture suddenly jumps, discharge moisture starts bouncing, fuel use increases, or harvest pressure has everyone asking for more capacity? In Part 2 of this special Whole Grain Podcast grain-drying series, host Jim Lenz continues the conversation with Rodie Jelleberg, Grain Drying Manager at Superior Grain Equipment, focusing on the decisions operators face when real-world conditions change. The episode introduces a new segment—“Rodie, What Would You Do?”—where Rodie works through real-world grain-drying scenarios involving moisture changes, inconsistent readings, energy use, capacity, hot grain and changing weather conditions. The conversation also follows grain beyond the dryer into cooling and storage and explores warning signs operators shouldn’t ignore, dryer-fire risk, cleaning and maintenance, the value of tracking operational data, and what separates experienced dryer operators from average ones. If you haven’t listened to Part 1, “Beyond the Setpoint: Making Better Grain Drying Decisions During Harvest,” start there and listen to these two episodes as a set for a practical look at making better grain-drying decisions during harvest. The Whole Grain Podcast is produced by GEAPS, the Grain Elevator and Processing Society. Learn more about GEAPS education, events, membership and industry resources at GEAPS.com. Links:  GEAPS Webinar replay: Drying Grain for Quality, Safety, and ProfitGEAPS Online Course CatalogSuperior Grain EquipmentGrain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. Grain drying isn’t simply about reaching a target moisture level. It’s about knowing what to watch, recognizing when conditions change, and making the right adjustments without creating new problems. In Part 1 of this two-part Whole Grain Podcast series, host Jim Lenz talks with Rodie Jelleberg, Grain Drying Manager at Superior Grain Equipment, about what experienced operators notice when they “read” a dryer. They explore moisture variability, why operators shouldn’t chase dryer settings, overdrying and shrink, energy use, throughput, grain quality, and the tradeoffs that can affect profitability. What should you pay attention to? When should you make an adjustment—and when might the smartest decision be to wait? This episode focuses on understanding the drying system. Then continue with Part 2, where the conversation shifts to troubleshooting real-world situations, warning signs, storage, dryer-fire risk, maintenance, and a new segment: “Rodie, What Would You Do?” Listen to both episodes together for a practical look at making better grain-drying decisions during harvest. The Whole Grain Podcast is produced by GEAPS, the Grain Elevator and Processing Society. Learn more about GEAPS education, events, membership and industry resources at GEAPS.com. Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. Guest: Shail Khiyara, CEO of SWARM Engineering Host: Jim Lenz | GEAPS Whole Grain Podcast What if one of the biggest challenges facing a grain operation isn't a lack of data — but the gap between having information and knowing what to do with it? Every day, grain professionals make decisions that affect safety, grain quality, throughput, efficiency, and profitability. At the same time, facilities are generating more information, experienced employees are retiring, operations are being asked to do more with less, and technologies such as artificial intelligence are rapidly changing what's possible. But more technology doesn't automatically lead to better decisions. In this episode of the GEAPS Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz talks with Shail Khiyara, CEO of SWARM Engineering, about what happens when artificial intelligence, optimization, operational knowledge, and human decision-making come together. Rather than focusing on artificial intelligence as technology for technology's sake, the conversation explores a much more practical question: How can we make better decisions? Shail shares insights into how organizations can move beyond simply collecting more data and begin using that information to address complex operational challenges. The conversation also examines the growing opportunity to capture and extend the knowledge of experienced employees, evaluate possibilities that may otherwise be difficult to see, and help people make better-informed decisions. In This Episode Jim and Shail explore: The “decision gap” between having information and knowing what action to takeWhy more data doesn't necessarily create more clarityHow artificial intelligence can support — rather than replace — human decision-makingThe role of optimization in solving complex operational problemsThe importance of capturing and extending the knowledge of experienced operatorsHow organizations can move beyond dashboards and turn information into actionThe potential implications for grain quality, throughput, efficiency, maintenance, safety, and profitabilityWhy successful adoption of new technology ultimately needs to connect back to real operational problems and decisionsA Question Worth Taking Back to Your Facility Artificial intelligence continues to generate enormous attention across nearly every industry. But perhaps the most useful place for grain professionals to begin isn't by asking: “What can artificial intelligence do?” Instead, ask: “What decisions could we make better?” That question shifts the conversation away from technology itself and toward the people, processes, challenges, and opportunities inside the operation. And that may be where some of the greatest opportunities begin. Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. What happens after a railcar leaves your facility? For most of us, it's easy to think our responsibility ends once the paperwork is complete, the railcar is loaded, and it's released onto the track. But that's really where the journey begins. That railcar may travel hundreds of miles across the country, passing through neighborhoods, schools, businesses, and communities before reaching its destination. Every switch that's thrown, every inspection that's performed, every wheel that's checked, and every decision that's made at your facility contributes to the safety of everyone along that route. It's a responsibility the grain industry carries every single day. In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training for GEAPS, sits down with two respected railroad professionals from Northern Plains Rail Companies—Steven Fry, Assistant Director of Safety, Training & Operating Practices, and Noel Christensen, Superintendent of Training & Operating Practices. Together, they bring more than seven decades of railroad experience to an engaging conversation about the critical role grain facilities play in rail safety. Rather than focusing solely on regulations, this discussion explores the why behind rail safety. You'll hear why routine track inspections matter, what effective track protection really means, where facilities most commonly fall short, and how strong operating practices can prevent incidents before they happen. The conversation also examines how the commodities being shipped can influence regulatory expectations, why understanding railroad operating rules is just as important as knowing your facility's procedures, and how ongoing employee training builds a stronger culture of safety. Whether you're responsible for operations, maintenance, engineering, safety, environmental compliance, transportation, or facility management, you'll leave this episode with practical ideas you can put to work immediately. In this episode, you'll learn:  Why every railcar leaving your facility carries a responsibility beyond your property  What effective track inspection should include—and what facilities often overlook  The purpose and importance of track protection  Common rail safety risks found during facility inspections  How different commodities can change regulatory expectations  Why employee training and operating practices are essential to safe rail operations  The habits that distinguish high-performing facilities  Practical "Start, Stop, and Continue" recommendations to strengthen your rail safety program Rail safety isn't simply about compliance. It's about protecting employees. Protecting equipment. Protecting your operation. And protecting every community a railcar passes through after it leaves your facility. Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. What if you could uncover hidden risks, assess facility conditions more accurately, and make smarter maintenance decisions—without disrupting operations? In an industry where safety, reliability, and uptime are critical, understanding the true condition of your facility can be challenging. Many grain facilities contain hard-to-access areas, aging infrastructure, and hidden structural conditions that are difficult to evaluate through traditional inspection methods alone. Yet waiting until problems become visible can lead to increased repair costs, unplanned downtime, and greater operational risk. In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training for the Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS), sits down with Hayes Guillot, Inspection and Technology Specialist with Custom Concrete Specialists, to explore how modern inspection technologies are transforming the way grain facilities evaluate, maintain, and protect their assets. Drawing on his background in precision agriculture, drone technology, and facility inspections, Hayes explains how today's tools are providing facility owners and operators with unprecedented visibility into the condition of their structures. From interior and exterior drone inspections to ground penetrating radar (GPR), thermal imaging, and LiDAR technology, these solutions allow organizations to safely inspect areas that were once difficult, time-consuming, or costly to assess. Throughout the conversation, Hayes shares how technology is helping facilities identify potential issues earlier, reduce the need for confined-space entry, improve documentation, support data-driven decision-making, and establish a proactive approach to maintenance and capital planning. He also discusses how detailed reports, high-resolution imagery, video documentation, and advanced scanning technologies are helping maintenance teams, managers, engineers, and boards make more informed decisions with greater confidence. Whether you're responsible for operations, maintenance, engineering, safety, asset management, or strategic planning, this episode offers practical insights into how modern inspection technology is helping organizations move beyond reactive repairs and toward a safer, smarter, and more proactive future. Important Links Custom Concrete Specialists https://www.ccsgrouponline.com/ Previous Whole Grain Podcast Episode Featuring Cheyenne Wohlford, CEO & President of Custom Concrete Specialists Innovations in Grain Silo Maintenance: Drone Inspection Services https://www.geaps.com/news-publications/whole-grain-podcast/innovations-in-grain-silo-maintenance-drone-inspection-services-2/ GEAPS Website https://www.geaps.com/ GEAPS Credentialing Program https://www.geaps.com/training-education/credentials/ Whole Grain Podcast https://www.geaps.com/wholegrain Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. Hosted by Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast explores how military experience translates into meaningful careers in the grain handling and processing industry. A lot of veterans don’t struggle with work ethic—they struggle with direction. When the uniform comes off, the mission and the built-in team can disappear overnight. That’s why this conversation resonates so strongly. Jim sits down with veteran Bishop Chamberlin of The DeLong Co., Inc. to discuss how the grain industry can turn “I just need a job” into a career built around community, growth, leadership, and real public impact. Together, they explore the practical reasons veterans fit grain operations so well: high standards, safety-first thinking, teamwork, adaptability, and constant problem solving when equipment, logistics, or plans suddenly change. Bishop shares how his military background in construction, logistics, and leadership translates directly into agricultural exports and terminal operations. The conversation also dives into veteran advocacy and support systems that truly make a difference. Bishop explains the creation of The DeLong Company’s Military Veterans Resource Group and why veterans often need a “team within a team” as they transition into civilian careers. The discussion also highlights how small improvements in recruiting, interviewing, onboarding, and mentorship can improve retention and long-term success for veterans, National Guard members, and Reservists. Finally, the episode shares the origin story behind the new GEAPS Military Discount Program, which provides 50% off GEAPS online learning opportunities for veterans and active-duty military personnel. The group discusses how reducing financial barriers can help veterans pursue credentials like the CGOM and stand out in a rapidly evolving industry. If you care about workforce development, veteran careers, leadership, and the future of agriculture logistics, this is a conversation worth sharing. Subscribe to the Whole Grain Podcast, share this episode with a veteran or hiring manager, and leave a review to help more people discover opportunities in the grain industry. Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. Designing a grain facility is one of the most critical—and infrequent—decisions in grain handling and processing operations. The choices made during planning, layout, and construction can impact efficiency, safety, and long-term performance for decades. In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, is joined by Chris Schaudt, Vice President of Sales at Mid-States Companies, to explore what it takes to design grain facilities that truly stand the test of time. Chris brings extensive experience supporting grain facility design, construction, expansion, and material handling systems for a wide range of operations, including cooperatives, processors, ethanol plants, and food-grade facilities. Chris shares practical insights into grain facility design, material handling systems, and the decisions that separate successful projects from costly mistakes. Whether you're planning a new grain facility, upgrading existing infrastructure, or evaluating your current operation, this episode provides actionable guidance to help you build smarter, safer, and more efficient systems. What You’ll Learn Key considerations when designing a grain facility for long-term performance Common mistakes made during grain facility planning and construction How grain flow and layout impact operational efficiency What it means to design for future expansion and scalability Lessons learned from real grain facility projects across the U.S. How to avoid costly mistakes during construction and upgrades Trends shaping the future of grain handling and storage systems Key Links & Resources Learn more about Mid-States Companies: https://midstatescompanies.com/ Chris Schaudt, VP Sales, Mid-States CompaniesPhone: 515-509-3011 Email: [email protected] educational solutions and membership information at the Grain Elevator and Processing Society: https://www.geaps.com Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. Across the grain industry, facility leaders are navigating a level of uncertainty we haven’t seen in years. Volatile commodity markets. Weather extremes. Labor shortages. Tighter margins. Rising expectations around safety, uptime, and quality. In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz sits down with Matt Koch, Chief Marketing Officer at Sukup Manufacturing Co., to explore what it really takes to operate a modern grain facility in today’s unpredictable environment. From macro market pressures and geopolitical shifts to storage strategy, grain conditioning risk, and practical automation, this conversation moves beyond equipment to systems thinking. Matt shares a global perspective from working with producers, commercial elevators, terminals, and processors across more than 100 countries. The takeaway? Long-term success isn’t just about buying low and selling high. It’s about reducing loss, designing resilient systems, and operating dependably—year after year. What You’ll Learn• Why many operators are shifting from short-term optimization to 3–7 year strategic planning  • How global trade, energy markets, and geopolitics are shaping grain infrastructure decisions  • Why storage is becoming a strategic lever—not just capacity  • The hidden risks of large-bin consolidation and long-term storage  • How under-designed aeration systems quietly erode margins  • Why CO₂ monitoring often detects grain issues before temperature spikes  • What meaningful automation actually looks like in commercial facilities  • How modular OEM automation systems can improve safety and consistency  • Why preventing loss often matters more than market timing Key ThemesStorage as Strategy Well-designed storage allows operators to create market flexibility, improve throughput, standardize multi-site operations, and reduce management complexity. Scale has changed the game—and infrastructure must evolve with it. Grain Conditioning Risk As bins grow larger, risk grows with them. Consolidated storage requires tighter monitoring. CO₂ levels, moisture control, proper fan management, and active oversight are critical to protecting grain value over long-term storage cycles. Automation for Real-World Operations Automation isn’t about flashy control rooms. It’s about preventing operator error at 2:00 a.m., improving safety, supporting lean teams, and ensuring consistent procedures across facilities. Loss Prevention Over Speculation While commodity markets drive headlines, operational discipline drives profitability. Reducing spoilage, minimizing downtime, and designing dependable systems may be the most powerful competitive advantage. Learn more at:  www.sukup.com Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. GEAPS Exchange 2026: What to Expect — and How to Get the Most Value Every year, there’s one time when the global grain community gathers in one place to learn, connect, and solve real-world challenges together. In this special episode, Jim Lenz is joined by Bob Horvat, current GEAPS Board President, to spotlight GEAPS Exchange 2026—the premier event in the grain and grain processing industries. Bob shares why Exchange exists, why it still matters, and how both first-time and returning attendees can get maximum value—from education and Innovation Stations to the Expo Hall, special events, and the relationships that continue long after the show ends. With 319,950 square feet of Expo Hall, 400+ exhibitors, Innovation Stations, and 45+ hours of education across five tracks (Processing, Maintenance, Grain Operations, Safety, and Employee Development/Leadership), Exchange is designed to bring practical learning and problem-solving to every role in the industry. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why GEAPS Exchange exists—and how it supports the GEAPS mission to champion, connect, and serve the global grain industryThe value of Exchange for operations, maintenance, safety, processing, and leadership rolesWhat “real-world education” looks like at Exchange (sessions, demonstrations, and interactive learning)How to approach the Expo Hall like a pro—especially with 400+ exhibitorsThe community-building events that make Exchange feel like your extended grain industry familyWho should attend (hint: everyone) and how to plan for maximum return on time and investmentKey event details, pricing context, and practical tips to attend with your teamHighlights discussed Education formats: classroom sessions, Innovation Stations demos, and interactive learning (including safety-focused experiences)Five education tracks: Processing, Maintenance, Grain Operations, Safety, Employee Development (Leadership)Networking & special events: First-Timer/International events, Get Acquainted Party, Welcome Reception, Fun Run/Walk, Cornhole Tournament, Grain Merchandisers Networking Event, and Music BingoWhy Exchange energizes people and sends them home with:renewed enthusiasm,new ideas,knowledge to apply, andnew connections—people to call when you need helpKey details to remember GEAPS Exchange 2026 WebsiteFebruary 21–24, 2026Kansas City Convention Center400+ exhibitors45+ hours of educationInnovation Stations and live demonstrationsOne of the biggest values of Exchange: the people you meet—and the problems you solve togetherGrain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, talks with Kyle Dixon, Vice President of Sales at IBT Industrial Solutions, about how grain facilities can do more with less—while improving reliability, uptime, and long-term value. Kyle brings a rare perspective, having served as an IBT sales rep, regional manager, and now VP of Sales. He shares practical insights on proactive maintenance, simplifying storerooms, using technology wisely, and supporting a changing workforce. The focus is on real-world solutions grain professionals can apply immediately. Key Takeaways (Condensed) Doing more with less means maximizing capability—not cutting cornersProactive maintenance reduces downtime and riskSimple changes can deliver big operational winsTechnology works best alongside hands-on observationEducation and supplier partnerships strengthen today’s workforceSuppliers can act as an extension of customer teamsFeatured Partner IBT Industrial Solutions is a GEAPS Premier Partner supporting grain operations with engineering expertise and responsive MRO solutions. IBT Industrial Solutions: https://www.ibtinc.com/IBT Grain Industry Solutions: https://www.ibtinc.com/industries/grain/Past Whole Grain Podcast Episodes Featuring IBT Guests Keeping Grain Moving: Preventative Maintenance and Supplier Tipshttps://www.geaps.com/news-publications/whole-grain-podcast/keeping-grain-moving-preventative-maintenance-and-supplier-tips/Everything from Conveyor Belting to Buckets with a 30-Year Grain Pro https://www.geaps.com/news-publications/whole-grain-podcast/everything-from-conveyor-belting-to-buckets-with-a-30-year-grain-pro/Pillars of the Grain Industryhttps://www.geaps.com/news-publications/whole-grain-podcast/pillars-of-the-grain-industry/GEAPS Education & Events GEAPS Conveyor Training (Hands-On Programs): https://www.geaps.com/events-meetings/conveyor-training/GEAPS Online Learning: https://www.geaps.com/training-education/online-learning/GEAPS Exchange: https://www.geaps.com/exchange/Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, sits down with Dr. Gretchen Mosher, Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Iowa State University. Dr. Mosher is a nationally recognized expert on grain quality, measurement systems, and safety management — and her research reveals why testing is one of the most powerful tools grain handlers have for protecting quality, reducing risk, and making informed operational decisions. Key Takeaways Testing is about information — not punishment. Testing provides actionable data that helps grain handlers make better decisions about drying, storing, blending, and shipping products. It validates when quality is on target and identifies small issues before they become costly problems. A strong testing strategy is essential risk management. Most grain quality or safety failures start small. Routine sampling and testing catch issues early, protect millions of dollars in inventory, and support compliance with FSMA and other regulatory requirements. Both incoming and outgoing testing matter. Testing inbound grain establishes a baseline. Testing outbound grain provides documentation and leverage when customers question quality — proving the product met standards when it left the facility. Consistency is king: garbage in, garbage out. Valid sampling procedures are the foundation of trustworthy data. Inconsistent sampling or uncalibrated equipment create errors that distort results. Composite sampling and two-tiered testing improve reliability. Small samples collected over time create an accurate picture of quality. Simple rapid tests help flag samples needing deeper analysis. Testing data only has value if you use it. Data that’s collected but ignored is wasted investment. Facilities should use test results to guide blending, storage decisions, aeration, safety controls, and customer allocation. Good testing protects export markets. Documentation proves that grain marketed as non-GMO, food-grade, or identity-preserved was handled correctly. Future technologies will enhance sampling — not replace judgment. Machine vision, sensors, and automated systems are improving sampling accuracy, but the core purpose remains the same: better information for better decisions. Pull Quotes “Testing gives you information — and people make better decisions when they have better data.”“Most big problems in grain start small. Testing helps you catch them early.”“Garbage in, garbage out. Consistent sampling is the key to reliable results.”“If you collect data and don’t use it, you might as well put a pile of money on the floor and light it on fire.”“You have total control over the quality of your data.”Important Links & Related Episodes Iowa State University Department of Agricultural and Biosystems EngineeringIntroduction to Grain Quality Management (GEAPS Online Course)Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. Temporary Storage – Is Your System Ready? Temporary storage plays a critical role in grain operations—but it comes with unique challenges, risks, and costs that must be carefully managed. In this episode, 40-year industry veteran Bob Marlow shares hard-earned lessons, success strategies, technologies improving temporary storage, and a practical framework for evaluating whether this year's plan is truly ready. From grain quality protection and site design to cost tracking and operational safety, Bob provides real-world examples every grain facility can learn from—plus one cautionary tale you won’t forget. What You’ll Learn in This Episode When and why facilities rely on temporary storage—and how to distinguish emergency vs. true temporary storageThe biggest advantages vs. drawbacks compared to permanent storageEssential steps to ensure your temporary storage system is ready before harvestHow pad design, tarps, aeration, and fan management impact safety and grain qualityWhy grain quality issues escalate faster in piles and how to prevent lossThe most commonly overlooked or “hidden” costs—and how to track themNew tech and evolving best practices (CO₂ monitoring, wind-based fan control, improved tarps, cover-on-first systems)A practical readiness checklist based on Purdue’s SLAM method (Sanitize, Level, Aerate, Monitor)Key Takeaways Temporary storage is not “cheap storage.” It has recurring costs and higher risk that demand intentional planning.Grain quality is the make-or-break factor. Moisture, temperature swings, and tarp failures can quickly turn #1 grain into sample grade.Don’t “set it and forget it.” Fan mismanagement can cause re-wetting, heating, mold, and insects.Track true costs annually. Labor, tarps, repairs, pest control, fuel/electricity, and reclaim losses add up.Technology is changing the game. CO₂ monitoring, wind-based fan controls, and cover-on-first designs are improving outcomes.Bob’s Readiness Checklist (SLAM Method) Before harvest, confirm: S – Sanitize: Clean pad, remove old grain, treat for pests L – Load Level/Core: Build and core the pile properly A – Aerate: Have a plan to cool grain and manage fans correctly M – Monitor/Maintain: Monitor CO₂, temp, tarp condition, equipment & safety Red Flags That Require Immediate Action Off-odors around fans (sour, musty, fermented)CO₂ or temperature spikesTarp loosening or wind-flappingWater pooling around the pad or under tarpsCrusting or heating at surface or sidewalls  Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. California is on the verge of legalizing E15 fuel for the first time after the legislature unanimously passed Assembly Bill 30. In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, talks with Geoff Cooper, President & CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), about how persistence, coalition-building, and strategy led to this milestone — and what it means for consumers, retailers, policymakers, and grain professionals. From lower costs and cleaner air to ripple effects across ethanol markets and grain demand, this conversation explores how one bill could reshape the renewable fuels landscape for decades. Geoff Cooper is President and CEO of the RFA, the leading trade association for America’s ethanol industry. Since joining RFA in 2008, he has driven market growth, shaped policy, and expanded global demand for ethanol and co-products. A former U.S. Army captain specializing in fuel logistics, Geoff has served on key advisory boards and testified before state and federal bodies. He is widely recognized as a leader in the bioeconomy and a strong advocate for sustainable fuels. Key Takeaways AB30 passed unanimously — a historic first for ethanol legislation — and includes an urgency clause to make E15 legal immediately once signed. Consumers could save ~$2.7 billion annually (about $200 per household) with E15, typically priced 10–30¢ per gallon lower than E10. Environmental benefits include reduced smog-forming emissions, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and greenhouse gases. Ethanol production is zero-waste: starch becomes fuel while protein, fat, and fiber become livestock feed. A broad coalition — retailers, farm groups, transport associations, chambers of commerce, veterans, and labor — made AB30 possible. California’s decision accelerates federal momentum for year-round E15 and influences fuel policy worldwide. Market impact: 600–700 million gallons of additional ethanol demand could require 200–250 million more bushels of corn, boosting grain handling and transport.Pull Quotes “This is the first ethanol-friendly bill to move through the California legislature with unanimous support.” “E15 delivers typical pump savings of 10–30 cents per gallon — and we’ve seen even larger discounts.” “The ethanol process today is zero-waste — starch becomes fuel, and protein, fat, and fiber become livestock feed.” “California’s move on E15 sends a signal nationwide and around the world.” Important Links & Related Episodes Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) — https://ethanolrfa.org/Fueling the Future: The Role of Renewable Fuels in the Grain Industry with RFA's Robert White E15, Ethanol and the Future of Agriculture with Emily Skor of Growth EnergyDriving Change: The 45Z Tax Credit’s Impact on Biofuels and Beyond, with Eric McAfee of AemetisGEAPS websiteGrain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. What does 50 years in the grain industry teach you about smarter equipment decisions? Today’s guest, Jeff Schwab, knows the answer firsthand. Jeff began his career at just 15 years old, working night shifts at a local mill while finishing high school. After completing a Vo-Tech program in drafting and design, he spent decades shaping the grain industry—first as a draftsman, then in sales, troubleshooting, and ultimately as a trainer and Product Specialist for GSI/Intersystems. With more than 20 years at Schlagel and another 16 at GSI, Jeff built a reputation as a trusted expert and mentor. In this episode, Jeff shares: How to avoid overspending, underspending, or overbuilding projectsWhy a modern maintenance mindset is critical for reliability and safetyCommon mistakes with bucket elevators, dual drives, and high horsepower systemsMemorable field stories where smart choices—and costly mistakes—shaped outcomesHis advice for young professionals entering the industry todayJeff also reflects on his time teaching at GEAPS/K-State Hands-On Training (HOT) for the Operation and Maintenance of Conveying Equipment program at K-State and why knowledge-sharing is the lifeblood of this industry. Whether you’re managing a facility, making equipment investments, or just starting your grain career, this conversation is packed with practical insights you can take back to your team. Reflection Questions for Discussion Use these prompts to guide personal reflection or spark a team conversation after listening: Where has your facility overspent or underspent on equipment in the past?Have you seen a project that was overbuilt or underbuilt? What was the impact?What kind of maintenance mindset does your team rely on—preventive, reactive, or somewhere in between?How does your workplace encourage knowledge-sharing between experienced employees and newer professionals?Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.

Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. Scott Brittingham doesn't just recruit members to GEAPS—he builds community by forging meaningful connections that last a lifetime. As the organization's top recruiter for six of the last seven years, his approach reveals profound insights about leadership, mentorship, and the future of the grain industry. Starting his journey at just 14 years old sweeping floors at his father's grain facility, Scott has accumulated over five decades of experience that he's passionate about sharing with others. Now serving as Grain Systems and Inventory Control Manager at Mountaire Farms (the fourth largest poultry grower in the country), Scott approaches recruitment not as a sales pitch but as offering a valuable tool that transforms careers. What makes his method so effective? Scott makes membership personal by asking about individual goals and challenges, then demonstrating how GEAPS provides solutions. He sends detailed information, follows up consistently, and even offers to submit applications for interested professionals. When faced with common objections like time constraints, he emphasizes flexibility. When cost concerns arise, he highlights facility memberships that allow multiple team members to benefit under one umbrella. But Scott's impact extends far beyond recruitment numbers. He's a dedicated mentor who recognizes how the industry's evolution—with more leaders emerging from management trainee programs rather than decades of hands-on experience—creates knowledge gaps that professional communities help bridge. His commitment to lifelong learning is evidenced by earning the Master Credential in Grain Operations Management (MCGOM), becoming just the 12th person worldwide with this distinction at the time. As the grain industry advances with new technologies and automation, Scott remains excited about the future and the role GEAPS plays in helping professionals stay ahead of the curve. His parting wisdom resonates with professionals at every career stage: "GEAPS is an outstanding organization and if you're a part of this industry and you're serious about growing, you definitely should belong. You'll get back tenfold anything that you put into it." What step will you take today to grow your network and help someone else find their path in this field? Explore GEAPS' professional development resources, credentialing programs, and member community at geaps.com.  Key GEAPS Links: MembershipLocal ChaptersCredentialing ProgramsOnline and On-Demand CoursesGrain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.