Send us a textEpisode 5: Bridging Innovation and Sustainability in Agriculture with Shawn Catherwood, Dr. Joel Gruver, and Brandon SchlautmanJoin us for an engaging episode of the Soil Network podcast, recorded live from the Innovative Farmers Association of Ontario conference in Kitchener, Ontario. Host Ian Virtue brings together three outstanding guests: Shawn Catherwood, a leading voice in regenerative agriculture; Dr. Joel Gruver, a soil science professor and conservation expert; and Brandon Schlautman, a pioneering scientist in perennial cropping systems.In this episode, our guests dive deep into their unique perspectives on sustainable agriculture:Shawn Catherwood shares his dual experience as a family grain farmer in Saskatchewan and his role with PepsiCo, focusing on developing and executing regenerative agriculture programs that align with corporate sustainability goals. Shawn emphasizes the importance of collaboration across the food supply chain to promote sustainability from field to table.Dr. Joel Gruver discusses his mission in education, facilitating the next generation of sustainable agriculture leaders. He highlights the importance of integrating ecological and global perspectives into the agricultural curriculum and fostering learning communities that support innovation and resilience in farming practices.Brandon Schlautman brings insights from his work at The Land Institute in Kansas, where he leads efforts in developing perennial legume systems. Brandon talks about the challenges and opportunities of introducing perennial crops into traditional row cropping systems, aiming to enhance soil health and agricultural sustainability.The conversation covers a range of crucial topics, including:The impact of climate change on agriculture and the innovative solutions being implemented to address these challenges.The role of perennial crops and other regenerative practices in building resilient farming systems.The economic viability of sustainable agricultural practices and the importance of demonstrating their benefits to farmers.The significance of cross-disciplinary collaboration in tackling complex agricultural problems and driving systemic change.Listeners will gain valuable insights into:Strategies for integrating sustainable practices into conventional farming systems.The role of education and community-building in promoting sustainable agriculture.Practical examples of how farmers can leverage new technologies and practices to improve soil health and farm resilience.Guest Information:Shawn Catherwood: A family grain farmer from Saskatchewan and Canada Regina Engagement Lead for PepsiCo, focusing on regenerative agriculture programs. Connect on Twitter @CatherwoodShawn.Dr. Joel Gruver: Professor at Western Illinois University, teaching soil science and conservation classes, with research interests in organic grain production and innovative cropping systems. Learn more about his work here.Brandon Schlautman: Lead scientist for the perennial legume proThanks for tuning in to the Soil Network Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow farmer or agri-curious friend. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a conversation about farming smarter, growing better, and building stronger communities. 🌾 Stay Connected:📢 Explore more stories, events, and resources through our Linktree:👉 linktr.ee/ontariosoilnetwork Let’s keep growing—together. See you next time!

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