Capital Roots: Stories from Agriculture's Footprint

In this episode of Capital Roots, host Clint Cryer welcomes Christy Seyfert, President & CEO of the Farm Credit Council, for a timely conversation recorded during the 2025 Farm Credit Fly-In. With the government now reopened, Christy reflects on the momentum of the week, Farm Credit’s unified advocacy efforts, and the policy priorities shaping Farm Bill 2.0.

She also shares her first-year perspective as CEO, her deep agricultura...

In this episode of Capital Roots, we sit down with Dr. Donna McAllister, Assistant Professor at Texas Tech University and member of the leadership team for the Texas Alliance for Water Conservation (TAWC). Dr. McAllister shares how researchers and producers are working together to preserve the Ogallala Aquifer—one of our region’s most valuable, yet finite, resources.

From changing cropping practices to evaluating the economics of w...

In this episode of Capital Roots, we sit down with Dr. Clint Krehbiel, Dean of the Davis College of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources at Texas Tech University. From growing up on his family's Simmental cattle operation in Kansas to leading one of the nation's fastest-rising agricultural colleges, Dr. Krehbiel shares his journey of service, leadership, and vision for the future of ag education.

We explore the pillars of ...

How can U.S. farmers stay competitive in a world where markets move faster than ever and global players like Brazil and China reshape agriculture?

On this episode of Capital Roots, host Clint Cryer sits down with Dr. Darren Hudson, Associate Dean and Director of the of the International Center for Agricultural Competitiveness at Texas Tech University, to unpack what "ag competitiveness" really means - and how U.S. producers can ada...

In this episode of Capital Roots, we visit with Shaun Bayless, Fayette County Game Warden with Texas Parks and Wildlife, as he shares what it means to serve rural communities across the state. From the backroads of West Texas to the waters of the Highland Lakes, Shaun reflects on the relationships, responsibilities, and realities of life behind the badge. His story highlights the deep ties between conservation, public trust, and th...

In this episode of Capital Roots, we’re joined by Stephanie Webb '07 and James Palacios '17 to explore the Agricultural and Natural Resources Policy (ANRP) Internship Program at Texas A&M University. A life-changing opportunity for students interested in agriculture and public service, the ANRP program places Aggies in congressional offices and ag organizations in Washington, D.C. and Austin. Stephanie and James—both former int...

In this episode of Capital Roots, we’re joined by Dr. Lance Bauer, Executive Vice President of Beefmaster Breeders United, to explore the history, genetics, and growing global presence of the Beefmaster breed. Developed in South Texas during the 1930s, Beefmasters were built to thrive in tough conditions and are still defined by the Six Essentials: weight, conformation, milk production, fertility, hardiness, and disposition.

Dr. Bau...

In this episode of Capital Roots, we spotlight Mid-Coast Smackdown—a Texas nonprofit born from a fishing tournament and fueled by a mission to support families with children battling cancer. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a major community event, offering financial relief with no strings attached. Tune in to hear how a passion for fishing turned into a powerful force for good.

Tournament Info:

May 31, 2025 in Rockp...

Dr. Jeffrey Savell, Vice Chancellor and Dean for Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University, joins Capital Roots for a candid conversation about leadership, legacy, and the power of people. From his start in meat science to leading one of the University's largest colleges, Dr. Savell shares lessons learned over nearly five decades in higher education. We cover everything from mentorship and trust to student success, ...

Texas landowners are facing new opportunities and challenges in energy, conservation, and land management. In this episode of Capital Roots, Joe and Clint sit down with Jennifer Bremer Owen, Executive Director of the Texas Land and Mineral Owners Association, to break down the key issues shaping the future of land and mineral ownership. From water conservation in West Texas to the rise of lithium extraction, carbon sequestration, a...

Texas ranks among the top states in poultry production, but did you know we still don't produce enough eggs to meet demand? In this episode, hosts Joe Patranella and Clint Cryer sit down with J.C. Essler, Executive Vice President of the Texas Poultry Federation, to explore the state's $50 billion poultry industry. From egg production and broiler operations to industry challenges and consumer trends, we're breaking down what it take...

Texas land markets are shifting, so what's driving the change? In this episode of Capital Roots, Dr. Lynn Krebs from the Texas A&M University Texas Real Estate Research Center unpacks the latest trends, from rising land values to property tax implications and rural real estate demand. He shares expert insights on what's fueling the market, where prices are headed, and what buyers and sellers know. Whether you're a landowner, in...

Welcome to another episode of Capital Roots! Today, we're thrilled to sit down with Tobin Redwine, the new executive director of the Montgomery County Fair and Rodeo, and Madison Harris, the marketing and community outreach coordinator. Since 1957, this beloved event has been a hub for agriculture, entertainment, and community connection. Join us as we explore its rich history, exciting events like livestock shows and concerts, and...

In this episode of Capital Roots, Joe and Clint delve into the thriving Texas wine industry with Justin Scheiner, Ph.D., an Associate Professor and Extension Viticulture Specialist at Texas A&M University. Explore how the Lone Star State has become home to over 800 wineries and discover the unique grape varieties that flourish in Texas. Join us as we uncover the vital connection between agriculture and viticulture, the importan...

In this episode of Capital Roots, Joe and Clint dive into the world of Brahman cattle with special guest Paul Maulsby, Executive Vice President of the American Brahman Breeders Association. Explore the breed's rich history, unique traits, and their significant role in sustainable agriculture. Paul shares his expert insights into how Brahman cattle have adapted to diverse climates, their impact on global beef production, and why the...

In this episode of Capital Roots, Joe and Clint welcome Dane Swinburn from Tule Creek Outfitters and explore the captivating intersection of agriculture and hunting. Dane shares his journey from growing up on a cotton farm in Tulia, TX to running a successful hunting operation in both Texas and Saskatchewan, Canada. Listeners will gain insights into the unique experiences offered in field hunting for ducks, geese, and the rising tr...

In this episode of Capital Roots, hosts Joe Patranella and Clint Cryer welcome Bryan Rose and Koby Reed from Fat Tire Cowboys, an aviation adventure brand. Listen along as they discuss their passion for flying and the unique experiences that come with it, including the thrill of flying small planes and the responsibility that pilots carry. The conversation also touches on the origins of their brand, the joy of capturing breathtakin...

This week's episode of Capital Roots welcomes Texas legend, Mr. Sam Middleton of Chas. S. Middleton & Son as he shares his remarkable journey in real estate and ranching. Drawing on over 50 years of experience, Sam recounts fascinating stories from his family's legacy, including the sale of the largest contiguous ranch in the U.S., the Wagner Ranch, and the iconic Four Sixes Ranch. Sam also discusses the evolving ranch market, ...

On this week's episode of Capital Roots, Joe and Clint sit down with David Gibson, Executive Director, and Stephanie Pruitt, Communications Director, of Texas Corn Producers for a deep dive into Texas corn and agriculture. Stephanie shares her background in agriculture and her role managing marketing and PR for the organization. David, with over 25 years at Texas Corn Producers, offers insights into his work with farm families and ...