Agriculture Technology Podcast

John Deere just introduced its model year 2027 planter updates — and these changes go beyond a typical equipment refresh. In this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast, Tony Kramer talks with John Deere’s Stephen Schwartz to break down new features like including factory-installed FurrowVision, downforce automation, dual product liquid systems (ExactRate + ExactShot) and ExactDepth in-cab control. Together, these updates are designed to give operators more visibility into the furrow, more control from the cab and more precision across every pass.

What if you could see inside the furrow while planting — without ever leaving the cab? In this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast, Tony Kramer sits down with John Deere experts Stephen Schwartz and Jeff Spencer to discuss FurrowVision, John Deere’s planter technology designed to give farmers real-time visibility into what’s happening below the soil surface.

Host Tony Kramer sits down with Michael Porter, Go-To-Market Manager of Large Tractors and Tillage at John Deere, to break down the brand-new John Deere 8R and John Deere 8RX tractors. The new 440, 490 and 540 models were redesigned from the ground up with a larger frame, JD14 engine, EVT transmission and the ability to electrically power planters directly from the tractor. 

After two full seasons running John Deere See & Spray, North Dakota grower Jared Billedeu joins Agriculture Technology Podcast host Tony Kramer to share what the technology actually delivered in the field. This episode goes beyond specs to break down how See & Spray fits into an active operation, what surprised Jared most and what he’d tell other growers still on the fence. The conversation also touches on ExactShot fertilizer technology and harvest automation, and how those tools are shaping day-to-day decisions across the operation

In this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast, host Tony Kramer sits down with Tyler Zima, Product Manager for Tillage and Autonomy at RDO Equipment Co., to break down John Deere’s autonomous tillage solution and what it actually looks like in the field today. After two years, four tillage seasons and more than 13,000 autonomous acres covered, Tony and Tyler share real-world insights from working directly with customers across multiple operations. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Which equipment is compatible with John Deere autonomous tillage • How Precision Upgrade Kits (PUKs) allow existing equipment to run autonomously • How autonomous tillage is operated using Ops Center Mobile • What happens when the machine encounters dust, water, objects or people • What RDO and our customers have learned after multiple seasons in the field • How autonomous tillage can improve flexibility and quality of life on the farm • Where autonomy is headed next and what customers should consider before adopting

2025 was a breakthrough year for agriculture technology, and we’re closing it out with a look at the biggest innovations shaping the industry. In the final Agriculture Technology Podcast episode of the year, host Tony Kramer sits down with Daryl Shelton, RDO’s EVP of Agriculture, to reflect on the top advancements of 2025 and share what’s ahead for 2026. Key highlights from their conversation: • John Deere + Sentera imagery: This acquisition is improving the full imagery workflow, from UAV capture to prescriptions and in-season decisions • See & Spray ROI: Real-world results include major input cost reductions and accelerated adoption • Monosem + SeedStar™ 2: Bringing Deere tech to specialty-crop planters for the visibility growers have been asking for • Autonomous Tillage Insights: What 2025 trials revealed and how customers are preparing for the next step in 2026 The future of farming is here. Listen now to see what it looks like and how precision agriculture is evolving.

Customizable planters, advanced John Deere integration and the NEW MS Electron electric drive system — Monosem is redefining precision planting across every crop.  In this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast, host Tony Kramer talks with Clint Sedlacek from Monosem USA about how Monosem’s planter lineup delivers flexibility and innovation for growers around the world.  Tony and Clint cover:  • How Monosem planters are customized for everything from broad-acre to specialty crop operations  • The flexibility behind models like the ValoTerra, NG Plus, NC and MS  • How John Deere SeedStar and Operations Center enhance real-time planter data and control  • Why Monosem’s design approach helps growers adapt to unique crop spacing and field conditions  • What the MS Electron means for the future of electric-drive planter performance  🎧 Listen in to learn how Monosem and RDO Equipment Co. are helping farmers customize planters for their operation and stay ahead of precision ag technology. 

Learn how John Deere’s new Operations Center PRO Service gives equipment owners more control over diagnostics, maintenance and uptime. In this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast, host Tony Kramer talks with RDO Equipment Co. experts Larry H. and Jeff W. about how PRO Service replaces Customer Service Advisor to make diagnostics, manuals and software updates more accessible through the John Deere Operations Center.

Learn how John Deere’s new Operations Center PRO Servicegives equipment owners more control over diagnostics, maintenance and uptime. In this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast, host Tony Kramer talks with RDO Equipment Co. experts Larry H. and Jeff W. about how PRO Service replaces Customer Service Advisor to make diagnostics, manuals and software updates more accessible through the John Deere Operations Center. Larry and Jeff explain: - What Operations Center PRO Service is and how it works - --- How to set up an Operations Center account and add machines - The different PROService license options available - How customers can use the tool for diagnostics, controller programming and maintenance planning - How PRO Service helps reduce downtime and improve productivity year-round Whether you’re running a few machines or managing a largefleet, Operations Center PRO Service helps you stay connected, informed and ready to get the job done. Learn more or connect with your local RDO Equipment Co. https://www.rdoequipment.com

Learn how John Deere’s new Operations Center PRO Service gives equipment owners more control over diagnostics, maintenance and uptime. In this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast, host Tony Kramer talks with RDO Equipment Co. experts Larry H. and Jeff W. about how PRO Service replaces Customer Service Advisor to make diagnostics, manuals and software updates more accessible through the John Deere Operations Center. Larry and Jeff explain: 🔹 What Operations Center PRO Service is and how it works 🔹 How to set up an Operations Center account and add machines 🔹 The different PRO Service license options available 🔹 How customers can use the tool for diagnostics, controller programming and maintenance planning 🔹 How PRO Service helps reduce downtime and improve productivity year-round Whether you’re running a few machines or managing a large fleet, Operations Center PRO Service helps you stay connected, informed and ready to get the job done. 👉 Learn more or connect with your local RDO Equipment Co.https://www.rdoequipment.com

Learn how John Deere’s new Operations Center PRO Service gives equipment owners more control over diagnostics, maintenance and uptime. In this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast, host Tony Kramer talks with RDO Equipment Co. experts Larry H. and Jeff W. about how PRO Service replaces Customer Service Advisor to make diagnostics, manuals and software updates more accessible through the John Deere Operations Center. Larry and Jeff explain: 🔹 What Operations Center PRO Service is and how it works 🔹 How to set up an Operations Center account and add machines 🔹 The different PRO Service license options available 🔹 How customers can use the tool for diagnostics, controller programming and maintenance planning 🔹 How PRO Service helps reduce downtime and improve productivity year-round Whether you’re running a few machines or managing a large fleet, Operations Center PRO Service helps you stay connected, informed and ready to get the job done. 👉 Learn more or connect with your local RDO Equipment Co.https://www.rdoequipment.com

What used to take 3 days now takes just 4 hours, thanks to drone-based weed mapping and real-time analytics. In this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast, discover how Sentera’s technology is transforming how growers manage fields, make decisions and generate more precise field prescriptions. Host Tony Kramer talks with Sentera’s Eric Taipale and Kevin Friedenberg to explore how drone-based imagery, sensors and software are impacting agriculture. From Sentera’s startup to its acquisition by John Deere, this conversation dives deep into the tools, technologies and vision shaping the future of precision farming. You’ll learn about: • How Direct Georeferencing (DGR) improves drone efficiency and reduces data volume • SmartScripts Weeds and its ability to deliver species-level weed maps in under 4 hours • How SmartScripts works with See & Spray to optimize sprayer performance • FieldAgent software and its integration with John Deere Operations Center • What John Deere’s acquisition of Sentera means for the future of UAV imagery • Sentera’s sensor compatibility with leading drone brands, including DJI

Get an inside look at the brand-new John Deere F8 and F9 self-propelled forage harvesters. In this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast, host Tony Kramer sits down with Jason Artz, Product Manager for Forage Harvesters at RDO Equipment Co., to discuss the updates operators can expect in the 2026 self-propelled forage harvester lineup. John Deere forage harvester updates covered: • Updated naming system based on horsepower ranges • New engine platforms, including option with over 1,000 horsepower • Technology upgrades like HarvestMotion Plus, Active Fill Control and HarvestLab 3000 • Redesigned kernel processors (KPs) with improved throughput and monitoring • Drivetrain and steering improvements, including central tire inflation • Operator station upgrades with new cab layout, hydro handle and GreenStar G5 display Whether you’re chopping corn or hay, this episode gives you insight into the performance and efficiency gains of the new John Deere forage harvesters.

In this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast, host Tony Kramer sits down with Katy Derheim, Product Manager for Application Technology at RDO Equipment Co., to break down the three John Deere See & Spray™ solutions: Select, Premium and Ultimate.  Katy shares insights on how See & Spray systems allow growers to reduce herbicide use, lower input costs and increase operational efficiency, without sacrificing results. Whether you’re new to See & Spray or looking to upgrade your system, this episode explains what each solution does, who it’s best for and how you can see ROI as early as your first season.  Topics we cover:  • The key differences between Select, Premium and Ultimate  • How See & Spray saves growers time and money  • What’s new for 2026 with precision upgrade kits  • Real-world success stories from growers using See & Spray  • How John Deere’s licensing model works 

The newest John Deere combine updates for 2026 are here, bringing even more precision and automation to the field. In this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast, host Tony Kramer sits down with Bergen Nelson, Go-to-Market Manager at John Deere, to break down the most exciting updates coming to model year 2026 combines. They also revisit key changes introduced in 2025 and explain how farmers can access these technologies through upgrades. In this episode: • Recap of model year 2025 combine upgrades • 2026 John Deere combine updates & new features • Predictive Ground Speed Automation: terrain sensing, weed detection & crop compatibility • New harvesting logistics tech: Auto Unload & Grain Harvest Weight Sharing • How to upgrade your current combine • Digital tools to prep for Harvest 2025

Tractor technology has come a long way in the past 20 years — and it’s evolving faster than ever. In this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast, host Tony Kramer is joined by Brian Verkuehlen of RDO Equipment Co. to discuss how John Deere tractors are becoming more versatile to meet autonomy and precision agriculture. Once used solely for tillage and planting, John Deere tractors have transformed into advanced, multi-purpose machines. Tony and Brian dive into the impact of emerging technologies, the shift toward electrification and how farmers can strategically plan for the future of their operations. This episode covers: • How tractor roles have evolved from specialized to multi-functional • The impact of AutoTrac, AutoPath and autonomy • Why horsepower needs are increasing and what that means for your fleet • The shift from hydraulics to electric power in implements • Flexible technology integration with G5 displays, EVT transmissions and off-board power • Choosing between wheels, two-track and four-track configurations • Why long-term planning is essential for equipment investments

Want to cut fertilizer costs without sacrificing yield? In this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast, host Tony Kramer unpacks John Deere’s ExactRate and ExactShot fertilizer systems to help you decide which makes sense for your operation. He breaks down how each system works, the types of fertilizer applications they support and how to choose between the two. Whether you’re upgrading your current planter or buying new, understanding the differences between ExactRate and ExactShot can help you make a more informed investment. Topics We Cover: Key differences between ExactRate and ExactShot Fertilizer use and potential input savings Application types each system supports (in-furrow, 2x2 and high-rate) Planter compatibility and upgrade options

From full planter rebuilds to simple meter swaps, John Deere’s 2026 Precision Upgrades offer more ways than ever for farmers to bring the latest technology to the equipment they already own. In this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast, host Tony Kramer sits down with Taryn Fischels, Product Marketing Manager at John Deere, to explore the new Model Year 2026 Precision Upgrade Kits for planters and air seeders.These upgrades are designed with flexibility in mind — whether you’re running a newer machine that just needs a meter update or an older unit ready for a complete overhaul. Taryn shares how each kit is built to meet farmers where they’re at, helping them stay current with evolving planting and seeding technology to improve performance and profitability. Topics We Cover: - What Precision Upgrade Kits are - Newly rebranded Ultimate Planter Upgrade for full planter transformations- Meter-Only Upgrades for MaxEmerge 5e and ExactEmerge - The 1910 Accurate Meter Upgrade for air seedersWhether you’re ready to refresh your planter or fine-tune your air seeder, this conversation covers everything you need to know about John Deere’s 2026 precision upgrades.

The new John Deere HSD series is built for speed, reliability and the future of farming — allowing growers to prep their farms for autonomous tillage and cover 400 acres a day. In this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast, host Tony Kramer sits down with Kory Ross, Group Product Marketing Manager at John Deere, to discuss upgrades to the 2680H tillage tool. From stronger frames and improved residue flow to plug-and-play autonomy features, the HSD lineup delivers major advancements for large-scale operations. Learn about size options, horsepower requirements and what makes these tools a smart investment for 2026 and beyond. What’s covered in this episode: How the HSD builds on the 2680H’s field performance Structural upgrades for durability and easy maintenance Crop flow improvements and size flexibility Autonomy-ready features designed for John Deere’s future equipment Tool and tractor pairing guidance For more information, visit JohnDeere.com or reach out to your local RDO Equipment Co. store

From spot spraying to navigating tough terrain, UAVs are proving to be extremely beneficial to the ag industry. Join host Tony Kramer in this episode of the Agriculture Technology Podcast as he sits down with Ross Florhaug, a UAV applicator from North Dakota. Ross shares his journey with UAVs, insights on the best UAVs for agriculture and the challenges and successes of using UAVs in farming.  Curious about why customers would prefer UAV aerial applications over traditional methods? Ross discusses the benefits, including greater availability when crop dusters are busy, safer navigation around obstacles like highline wires and trees and chemical savings through efficient mapping.  Whether you're passionate about agriculture or just appreciate the newest technology, don't miss this insightful episode on how UAVs are making a difference in precision agriculture.