Texas Ag Today: A Four-Year Journey of Agricultural Insights
By Emmy Powell
Communications Specialist
For four years, the Texas Ag Today podcast has been a vital source of information for those involved in agriculture across the Lone Star State. Launched in September 2020 by the Texas Farm Bureau Radio Network, this podcast has become a cornerstone for local, state, and national agricultural news, amassing over 1,000 episodes and more than 414,000 downloads.
A Dedicated Team Behind the Mic
At the helm of the Texas Ag Today podcast is Carey Martin, who leads a talented team of agricultural journalists. This team includes Tom Nicolette, the senior network producer for Texas Farm Bureau, and Jessica Domel, a multimedia reporter. Together, they form the largest and most experienced farm news team in Texas, ensuring that listeners receive accurate and timely information.
The podcast benefits from the contributions of twelve dedicated reporters stationed throughout Texas, each bringing unique insights from their respective regions. This extensive network allows the podcast to cover a wide array of topics that resonate with farmers and ranchers across the state.
Comprehensive Coverage of Agricultural Issues
The podcast’s mission is clear: to cover the issues that matter most to Texas farmers and ranchers. As Martin explains, “We cover topics and news that affect the livelihoods of Texas farmers and ranchers, from farm policy and environmental issues in Washington, D.C., to county events in Texas.”
Listeners can expect regular updates on crop and livestock conditions, as well as market reports on crops, livestock, and energy. The podcast doesn’t just focus on full-time production agriculture; it also addresses other important issues for rural Texans, including veterinary reports, lawn and gardening tips, and hunting news.
Celebrating Milestones and Listener Engagement
One of the podcast’s most significant achievements has been reaching the milestone of 1,000 episodes. Martin proudly notes, “We’ve published an episode every single weekday for four years. That’s over 22,000 minutes of audio.” This consistency has fostered a loyal listener base, with many farmers and ranchers expressing their appreciation for the content and insights shared.
The podcast’s reach extends beyond Texas, with downloads recorded in over 50 countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Taiwan. This international interest highlights the universal relevance of the topics discussed and the global nature of agriculture.
Accessibility and Growth in Podcasting
Listeners can easily subscribe to Texas Ag Today on popular platforms such as Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify, making it convenient for anyone interested in agriculture to stay informed. Additionally, the podcast is accessible on the Texas Farm Bureau website, further enhancing its reach.
Martin emphasizes the importance of adapting to changing media consumption habits: “Our research shows we can reach about 60% of Texas farmers and ranchers through our radio network stations. Texas Ag Today is a way to reach the other 40%. Plus, many people want audio on demand.” The podcasting landscape has exploded in recent years, and the Texas Farm Bureau is committed to being part of this trend.
The Texas Farm Bureau Radio Network
As the state’s leading agricultural radio network, the Texas Farm Bureau Radio Network boasts over 130 affiliate stations, making it the most listened-to network for Texas farmers and ranchers. The network’s commitment to providing quality agricultural news and information has solidified its reputation as a trusted source in the community.
For those interested in learning more about the Texas Farm Bureau Radio Network and its offerings, additional information can be found on their official website.
In a world where information is constantly evolving, the Texas Ag Today podcast stands out as a reliable source of agricultural news, connecting farmers, ranchers, and rural Texans with the insights they need to thrive in their endeavors.