A wet spring, a parched August, and a combine that won’t quit—this conversation with fourth-generation farmer Allen Pace gets right to the heart of what it takes to bring a crop from the field to your plate. We talk through the harvest grind, the thin line between profit and loss, and why a few cents per bushel can swing a year when you’re moving hundreds of thousands of bushels. Allen shares how a lean crew uses crystal-clear communication and a whole lot of hustle to make good decisions when time, weather, and markets refuse to cooperate.

We dive into yields across Ballard County and beyond—corn averaging around 215 on his acres, early soybeans pushing into the 60s and 70s, and double-crop beans waiting on late rain. Allen explains how this year’s weather flipped yield maps, why storage and timing matter when harvest lows hit, and how working with a marketing team helps capture those crucial pennies. We follow the grain as it leaves the farm: down lock-free rivers toward export, to regional poultry integrators, and even into Kentucky’s booming bourbon industry.

There’s a bigger shift underway too. Soy oil is stepping into the spotlight thanks to renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel, changing the crush equation and creating new demand. Allen’s work on the Soybean Board highlights the research that got us here, and he makes a simple case for ag literacy: you may not eat soybeans, but your chicken sure did. We also look ahead at the next decade—drones, planter innovation, autonomy, hybrid powertrains—and what actually pays back versus what’s just a shiny toy. The perfect farm size? The profitable one. If you care about food security, rural economies, or just want an honest look at modern farming, this conversation delivers both grit and insight.

Dive deep into Western Kentucky's real estate landscape with Chance Futrell of Housman Partners Realty Land & Farm as he shatters common misconceptions about today's market. Fresh from his transition to full-time real estate after years of balancing dual careers, Chance brings authentic insights forged through countless successful transactions and deep community connections.

Contrary to popular belief, the local housing market isn't just surviving—it's thriving. Housman Partners celebrated their best month on record in May 2025, even with higher interest rates. After an initial adjustment period, buyers have acclimated to the new rate environment, recognizing that waiting indefinitely isn't practical when lifestyle needs demand action. Construction loans continue at surprising levels, with Chance and host Chris Griffin noting more than 20 new projects initiated during recent months.

The conversation shifts to the booming rural property market, where parcels of 10-40 acres are particularly sought-after. COVID accelerated the desire for self-sufficiency, with more people seeking their "own little piece of heaven" for gardening, recreation, and privacy. Chance reveals the unique valuation factors for hunting properties, where amenities like electricity and documented hunting success can significantly impact pricing. He advises property owners to maintain detailed logs of hunting activities to maximize value when selling.

Beyond market analysis, Chance offers practical wisdom for both buyers and sellers. He cautions sellers against allowing properties to become stigmatized through overpricing, while warning buyers to realistically assess maintenance requirements before purchasing rural land. "Chris Griffin goes out and buys 50 acres tomorrow and he doesn't own a tractor," he explains, illustrating how unprepared buyers often overlook ongoing costs.

Whether you're considering your first home purchase, looking to invest in recreational land, or seeking to maximize your property's value, Chance's expertise provides invaluable guidance.

On this episode of Back to Your Roots, host Chris Griffin sits down with Daniel Elrod, a mortgage loan originator recently voted "Best of the Best" in Cleveland, Tennessee, to unpack the ins and outs of construction financing.

Ever wonder why construction loans seem so complicated? Daniel breaks down the crucial differences between traditional home purchases and building from scratch. Before you meet with contractors or fall in love with house plans, listen to his advice about establishing what you can actually afford—potentially saving you from heartbreak and wasted time. The conversation dives deep into two distinct construction loan options that serve different needs: the unique 30-year fully dispersed construction loan with one-time closing and fixed rates, and the traditional 12-month interest-only construction loan.

What truly sets this discussion apart is the revelation about River Valley's note modification program—a feature that could save borrowers thousands in refinancing costs when interest rates drop. "You can always date the rate but marry the property," Daniel advises, highlighting how this program lets you secure your dream home now without missing future rate opportunities.

The episode also tackles specialized construction types like barndominiums and pole barn homes, explaining how these increasingly popular rural building options can be financed at up to 85% loan-to-value. Daniel dispels common myths about who qualifies for agricultural lending (hint: you don't need to be a farmer), reveals how land equity can eliminate down payment requirements, and explains the flexibility around dwelling limits for properties over 15 acres.

Whether you're just starting to dream about building or ready to break ground, this conversation delivers practical insights you won't hear elsewhere. Subscribe to Back to Your Roots for more insider knowledge on agricultural and rural financing that guides you back to what matters most.