Insights from the Field: What Makes a Good Agronomy Interview?
The crops are growing, and across the country, ag journalists are interviewing agronomists right and left, all in an effort to share the latest disease outbreak, insect infestation, and of course, overall management tips. But how do you get the most out of those interviews? And what makes for a good one? Mitch Heisler of Wyffels Hybrids talks with Holly Spangler about their media experiences and what a successful agronomy interview looks like from their standpoint. He talks about his approach and how he prepares their folks ahead of the conversation with three bullet points:
Know the audience
Know how the interview will be used
Know the key points to get across
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32:30
Partnering for a Cause: Wyffels Hybrids
What does a “cause marketing program” look like for an agriculture-based company? Jill Carlson, communications manager at Wyffels Hybrids, shares behind-the-scenes into their initiative “Serving Those Who Serve.” She explains the collaboration between Wyffels Hybrids, a for-profit business and Farm Rescue, a nonprofit organization and how they share common benefits of the program. Jill also describes how their team found a suitable non-profit partner for this initiative and how the“Serving Those Who Serve” program fits into their overall marketing campaigns.
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18:46
Let’s Talk Gear, Part 4: Stacy Mayo-Martinez, Martinez Media & Marketing Group
It’s no secret podcasts have soared in popularity. According to BuzzSprout, over one-third (104 million) of Americans listen to podcasts regularly. We have seen the research that farmers and ranchers are listening too. Spotify claims to have 4.7 million podcasts on its platform. So with a saturated market – how does a podcast stand out from the rest?
In today’s episode, Stacy Mayo-Martinez breaks down the podcasting side of media. She shares what gear she’s working with, how to market a podcast, and why there are less rules when it comes to podcasting.
Also in this episode, Kelsey and Stacy discuss…
The differences between USB and XLR microphones
Recording a podcast in-person vs. virtually
Is audio quality that important??
Knowing your audience
Why she hired a coach
…and much more!
Equipment & Accessories Mentioned In This Video
RODE audio systems – RODECaster Pro, RODE microphones
Blue Microphones
The Podtrak P4
StreamYard
Riverside
Final Cut
Adobe Audition
Adobe Premiere
Garage Band
Descript
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46:54
Let’s Talk Gear, Part 3: Miranda Reiman, Angus Media
In today’s episode, Miranda Reiman shares practical tips on how to be prepared for your next interview and photo/video shoot. Of course, we talked about what’s in her gear bag, but also other useful tools you might need for an interview. From hair scrunchies to Diet Coke, we must plan and prepare ourselves for all the elements.
Also in this episode, Kelsey and Miranda discuss…
Prioritizing your communication and marketing strategies
Why listening is the best foundational skill
Why you should push boundaries to get better
Creating an equipment checklist
and more!
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37:18
Let’s Talk Gear, Part 2: Katie Knapp, The Ag Photographer
Katie Knapp, The Ag Photographer, started her photography career in the dark room at the University of Illinois. With a background in advertising and PR, she started her own photography business in 2016. On today’s episode, Katie shares what photo equipment is in her gear bag but also why the person behind the camera is what makes the photo.
Also in this episode, Kelsey and Katie discuss…
Why she didn’t choose photojournalism as a master’s degree
Know the rules to break them
How certain shots require certain tools
Why she shoots with two camera bodies
The transition to mirrorless cameras is inevitable, but why Katie hasn’t switched yet…
Reasons for renting equipment
Equipment Mentioned In This recording
Harness Camera Straps
BorrowLenses
WestPhoto Rentals
Nikon D750
Nikon D850
Also rented mirrorless Nikon Z6ii
Tamron 24-70 2.8 Lens
Tamron 70-200 2.8 Lens
Cameras of the Year, 2021: The B&H Photography Podcast
B&H Photo Podcast
Lens Calibration
Podcast Co-Hosts Kelsey Litchfield and Holly Spangler share the latest news and trends in the ag media industry and beyond. They’ll interview some of the leading journalists, photographers, educators, editors, experts, and communication leaders in the field —All people with unique opinions and advice on the news of the day. You don’t want to miss out—tune in today!