Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast

Sonny Beck on Leadership and Agriculture (PAEP 122)

In this episode of the Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast, Reagan and Brady are joined by Sonny Beck, Purdue alumnus, CEO of Beck’s Hybrids, and a member of Purdue’s Board of Trustees. Sonny shares how growing up on a family farm and his time at Purdue shaped his leadership philosophy and commitment to agriculture.

The conversation focuses on values over numbers, as Sonny reflects on his guiding principles of faith, family, and farming. He discusses building strong relationships with farmers and employees, leading with integrity, and giving back to the ag community through practical research and service-driven leadership.

This episode offers meaningful insights for students, alumni, and agricultural professionals interested in purpose-driven leadership and what it truly means to be a Boilermaker in agriculture.

Alumni Reflections on Careers, Risk and Growth with Neil Mylet (PAEP 121)

In this episode of the Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast, Valerie Kilders and Brady Wiley sit down with Neil Mylet, agricultural economist, inventor, rural development advocate and proud Purdue alumnus. Growing up on his family’s farm in Camden, Indiana, Neil shares how his time at Purdue was shaped by mentorship, entrepreneurship coursework and hands-on leadership experiences, which sparked his passion for innovation and community impact.

Neil walks listeners through the origins of Camden Castle, a bold effort to restore a historic opera house into a hub for technology, arts and opportunity in rural Indiana. From global partnerships and cultural exchanges to expanding digital infrastructure and inspiring young people to see what’s possible, Neil explains how entrepreneurship and connectivity can help rural communities not just survive but thrive.

A thoughtful and inspiring conversation, this episode is perfect for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, rural development, technology and the lasting power of the Boilermaker network.

Where Are They Now? Catching Up with Past Ag Econ Podcast Co-Hosts Abby Meier and Colby Smock (PAEP 120)

In this episode of the Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast, student hosts Reagan Koester and Brady Wiley welcome back former co-hosts and Purdue Ag Econ alumni Abby Meier (Agribusiness and Agri-Marketing, ‘24) and Colby Smock (Agribusiness, ‘23). The conversation reflects on life after Purdue, highlighting diverse career paths in agricultural policy, international education and family agribusiness. Abby and Colby share how classroom experiences, study abroad, internships and involvement with the podcast shaped their professional growth and perspectives.

A reflective and inspiring episode, this conversation is especially valuable for students exploring career possibilities, internships and the many ways an agricultural economics degree can open doors both at home and around the world.

Setting Sail on Rural Innovation with Joe Rust (PAEP 119)

In this episode of the Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast, hosts Valerie Kilders and Reagan Koester sit down with Indiana entrepreneur and proud Purdue alumnus Joe Rust. Joe shares his journey from his early interest in business to his time at Purdue, where transformative mentorship, campus involvement, and hands-on experiences shaped his career path. He also offers candid advice for students navigating their own professional paths and reflects on how Purdue helped launch his vision for creating value in rural communities.

A thoughtful, energizing conversation, this episode is perfect for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, agriculture, or the power of the Boilermaker network.

Building Financial Resilience in Today’s Farm Economy with Kenzie House (PAEP 118)

In this episode, hosts Ken Foster and Reagan Koester sit down with Kenzie House, a financial officer at Farm Credit Mid-America, for an insightful conversation about today’s evolving farm economy. Kenzie breaks down how producers can stay resilient amid shifting markets, rising interest rates and generational transitions, offering clear strategies grounded in real experience. She highlights the unique ways Farm Credit supports young and beginning farmers and shares thoughtful advice for students exploring careers in ag finance. With her blend of expertise and enthusiasm for rural communities, listen in to hear Kenzie’s refreshing perspective that makes this episode both inspiring and informative.

The Challenges and Innovations in Produce Food Safety with Amanda Deering (PAEP 117)

Dr. Amanda Deering is an associate professor in Purdue University’s Department of Food Science, specializing in the microbial safety of fresh produce. Her research focuses on how human pathogens interact with fruits and vegetables and how contamination can be reduced through science-based practices. In addition to her laboratory work, she leads Extension efforts that help growers and industry professionals implement effective food-safety strategies. Deering’s work bridges research and practical application to support a safer, more resilient product supply chain.

Decision-Making, Data and AI in Agriculture (PAEP 116)

Dr. Chad Fiechter is a professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Purdue University, whose research focuses on integrating artificial intelligence into production agriculture. A Purdue graduate himself, Dr. Fiechter returned to his family’s farm after completing his undergraduate degree before deciding to pursue his Ph.D. and an academic career. His work combines hands-on agricultural experience with cutting-edge research to explore how emerging technologies can enhance efficiency, sustainability and decision-making in modern farming.

Shining a Light on Solar Energy on Farmland with Binayak Kunwar (PAEP 115)

In this episode of the Purdue Agricultural Economics Podcast, we talk with Binayak Kunwar, a Ph.D. student whose award-winning master’s thesis, “Impact of Commercial and Utility-Scale Solar Energy on Farmland Prices,” explores how solar development affects farmland values and land use. Binayak shares his journey to Purdue, what inspired his research and insights on the future of renewable energy and agriculture.