This episode of Breaking Barriers with Randy Dowdy and David Hula covers the latest crop conditions across the country, while also taking a deep dive into Pioneer’s 100 years of innovation with special guest Gabe Bathen.

The conversation begins with field updates from Georgia and Virginia, where Dowdy and Hula discuss early corn harvest, soybean progress, irrigation challenges, and the importance of building soil fertility instead of relying solely on in-season foliar applications. They explain why investing in soil health and nutrient balance remains one of the best long-term strategies for maximizing yield and profitability.

Later, Gabe Bethen from Pioneer joins the show to celebrate the company’s centennial and preview the next generation of corn genetics. The discussion explores new breeding technologies, improved disease resistance, stronger stalks, enhanced yield stability, and how future hybrids are being developed to help farmers manage increasingly unpredictable weather and disease pressure.

The episode wraps up with an update on tar spot, southern rust, and other late-season disease concerns, along with practical advice for protecting yield as corn harvest gets underway. Throughout the conversation, Randy & David emphasize that successful farming starts with healthy soils, sound agronomy, and adopting innovations that deliver long-term returns.

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