Ag, Ammo & Adventure

In this episode of Ag, Ammo and Adventure, host Steve Larsen interviews Dr. Glynn Tonsor, an expert in agricultural economics from Kansas State University. They discuss Glynn's journey from growing up on a hog farm in Northeast Missouri to becoming a leading voice in the meat industry. The conversation covers various topics, including consumer behavior in the meat market, the impact of demand on beef prices, the challenges faced by the pork industry, and the rising consumption of poultry. They also touch on the new dietary guidelines emphasizing protein consumption and the evolving role of universities in providing unbiased...

Duration: 00:59:05

In this episode of Ag, Ammo and Adventure, host Steven Larsen welcomes the Wives, Lisa Coffelt and Susan Larsen, to discuss their experiences with hunting, family traditions, and the dynamics of relationships. The conversation flows from personal backgrounds to hunting stories, the importance of community, and the fun of sharing food and fellowship during hunting season. The guests share their insights on self-defense, the challenges of hunting, and the joy of being part of a close-knit group. 

Hosts:

Steve Larsen & Todd Coffelt

Music:
Partner in Crime - Pablo and Pour D...

Duration: 01:03:41

In this episode of Ag Ammo Adventure, Steve sits down with Tyler Kirk, the chairman of Atlantic Bottling Company, the family-owned bottler responsible for putting Coca-Cola into coolers across the Midwest. From its humble beginnings in 1909 as a small-town ice cream and soda water company to becoming a major producer distributing over 7.4 million cases a year, this is the story of how a forgotten Coke franchise found in a safe sparked a multigenerational legacy.

We dive into the evolution of the business—from sorting bottles in a rural Iowa plant to advanced robotics, sustainability efforts, an...

Duration: 00:54:02

In this episode, Steven goes solo to sit down with Matt Halsrud, Marine Corps veteran and founder of Central Iowa Impact in Boone, Iowa. From humble farm roots to building a one-stop shop for shooters, archers, and outdoor enthusiasts, Matt shares how passion and persistence built a business that hits the mark.

They swap stories about bowhunting bucks, calling coyotes, and the joys (and headaches) of running an indoor range that keeps Iowans shooting straight. Even when it’s 10° and snowing sideways. Along the way, Matt proves that doing what you lov...

Duration: 00:57:39

In this episode of Ag, Ammo, and Adventure, Todd and Steve welcome Jeff Caldwell, an expert in agricultural strategy and storytelling. Jeff shares his journey from Western Kansas to Iowa, his experiences in agricultural media, and the evolution of marketing in the ag sector. The conversation delves into the importance of staying connected to the farming community and the changing landscape of agricultural media consumption.

Hosts:

Steve Larsen & Todd Coffelt

Music:
Partner in Crime - Pablo and Pour Decisions

Audio & Post-Production:
Rachel Yancey

Duration: 00:58:24

In this episode of Ag, Ammo, and Adventure, Todd and Steve welcome Jeff Caldwell, an expert in agricultural strategy and storytelling. Jeff shares his journey from Western Kansas to Iowa, his experiences in agricultural media, and the evolution of marketing in the ag sector. The conversation delves into the importance of staying connected to the farming community and the changing landscape of agricultural media consumption.

Hosts:

Steve Larson & Todd Coffelt

Music:
Partner in Crime - Pablo and Pour Decisions

Audio & Post-Production:
Rachel Yancey

Duration: 00:58:12

In this episode of Ag, Ammo, and Adventure, Todd And Steve interview John and Jordan from Tiefenthaler Quality Meats, a family-run business in Holstein, Iowa. They discuss the evolution of their meat processing operation, the unique skinless bratwurst they produce, and the importance of customer preferences in the meat industry. John shares his journey from a high school job to owning the business, while Jordan talks about her family's legacy in the meat industry. The conversation also touches on innovations, challenges, and the dynamics of running a family business in today's market.

Hosts:

Steve Larsen<...

Duration: 00:53:31

Summary

In this episode of Ag Ammo and Adventure, hosts Todd and Steve explore the world of craft beer with Steve Becker, co-owner of Twisted Vine Brewery. They discuss the journey of the brewery, the brewing process, unique ingredients, and the evolution of beer styles. Becker shares his experiences as a home brewer, the challenges of brewing light beers, and innovative collaborations, including brewing with hops that went to space. The conversation also touches on the future of the brewery and upcoming seasonal brews.

Hosts:

Steve Larsen

Todd Coffelt

...

Duration: 00:42:43

In this episode of Ag Ammo and Adventure, hosts Steve and Todd, along with special guest Seamus Wilkerson, explore the world of hunting and the unique offerings of Berkwood Farms. They share personal stories from their hunting experiences, discuss the quality and market of Berkwood pork, and reflect on the importance of community and support in both hunting and farming. The conversation highlights the challenges and joys of deer hunting, the significance of quality meat production, and the future of agriculture in Iowa.

Hosts:

Steve Larsen

Todd Coffelt

Music:
...

Duration: 00:58:18

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Todd and Steve interview Dr. Larry Richard, affectionately known as Doc, who shares his rich experiences in hunting, fishing, and the outdoors. The discussion spans Doc's journey from a small-town farm kid to a respected medical professional, his transition to Southern Iowa, and the dynamics of group hunting. With a wealth of funny stories and valuable lessons on patience, safety, and teaching the next generation of hunters, Doc emphasizes the importance of community and shared experiences in the hunting culture. The conversation also touches on the evolution of hunting practices, processing deer...

Duration: 00:48:28

In this episode of Ag Ammo and Adventure, Todd and Steve explore a variety of topics ranging from their recent adventures in the Rocky Mountains to the economics of hay and cattle. They reminisce about school days, share bus stories, and discuss the importance of patience in hunting. The conversation also delves into bird sounds during turkey hunting, wildlife encounters in Estes Park, and preparations for tailgating at the Iowa vs. Iowa State game. They touch on pheasant season strategies, favorite recipes, and the dynamics of community relations in hunting. The episode wraps up with reflections on the importance...

Duration: 00:59:03

Summary

In this episode of Ag Ammo and Adventure, hosts Todd and Steven discuss various topics related to agriculture, hunting, and community events. They share personal anecdotes about summer struggles, corn sweat, and the upcoming dove season. The conversation also touches on weather predictions, deer movement, and the significance of nicknames in their community. Additionally, they preview an exciting interview with Lucas Van Wyk from Ulrich Meat Market, highlighting the history and operations of the business.

Hosts:

Steve Larsen & Todd Coffelt

Music:
Partner in Crime - Pablo and...

Duration: 00:50:03

Summary

In this episode of Ag Ammo and Adventure, Steve & Todd interviews Lucas Van Wyk, president of the Iowa Meat Processors Association and owner of Ulrich Meat Market. They discuss the legacy of the meat market, the challenges and growth in the meat industry, and the balance between tradition and innovation in meat processing. Lucas shares insights on product development, community collaboration, and the impact of COVID-19 on their operations. The conversation concludes with exciting plans for expansion and the importance of supporting local meat processors.

Hosts:

Steve Larsen & Todd Coffelt<...

Duration: 00:51:23

In this heartfelt episode of Ag, Ammo & Adventure, Steve and Todd sit down with Southwest Iowa farming legends Varel and Jackie Bailey. With decades of experience in agriculture, the Baileys share stories of resilience, community, and the ever-changing landscape of rural life. Varel’s unmatched skill in fixing anything—from stubborn tractors to ancient gates—pairs with Jackie’s sharp wit, warm hospitality, and steady leadership on the home front. Together, they embody the grit and generosity that define Iowa’s farming heritage. This tribute captures not just their personal journey, but the enduring spirit of the people who keep rural...

Duration: 01:03:16

Todd Coffelt and Steve Larsen recap attending the inaugural Truman Tough Charitable Fund golf outing, honoring 12-year-old Truman Barnes and raising money for children’s health charities. They swap humorous stories from the course—errant golf shots, deer sightings, and a surprise snapping turtle—before diving into summer field updates: planting late-season food plots, experimenting with corn and bean mixes, and preparing for hunting season. The conversation shifts to Iowa State Fair traditions, favorite foods, and the DNR’s new Maquoketa Cave exhibit. They finish with small-town stories, a lighthearted rant about marinara sauce, and plans for future i...

Duration: 00:56:20

Hosts Steve Larsen and Todd Coffelt dig into a down-home conversation about farming, food plots, and deer hunting, blending practical advice with hilarious anecdotes from rural Iowa life. Here’s a rundown of the episode:

🌾 Farming & Field Work

Weather challenges (too much rain) are impacting hay cutting and planting schedules.Corn and soybeans are growing well, but food plot planting for deer has been delayed.Emphasis on flexibility: shifting planting dates and maybe even planting rice instead of corn due to soggy conditions.

🦌 Deer Food Plots & Strategy...

Duration: 00:54:58