ACN’s ”Above the Fold”

Global Connections in America's Heartland: AMS Preview with Kenna Rathai

What’s on the agenda for this year’s Ag Media Summit? Throw on your headphones and press play! Kenna Rathai who serves as this year’s programming committee chair gives a preview of the sessions, speakers, and some fun behind-the-scenes info into planning AMS. This year’s event is also being held in conjunction with the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists and their Annual Congress. You’ll be sure to meet new friends, gain relationships of a lifetime, and learn valuable information to further your career. You can learn more about AMS by visiting their website. See you in Minneapolis!

Full-time freelancer: Launching a business with Kellie Lasack

Kellie Lasack launched her business, Roan Marketing and Communications, in 2018. She made the jump after encouragement from her family, friends, and mentors and after many years of experience freelancing for publications. On this episode, she’s sharing what her journey has been like – from the obstacles to the victories. Kellie shares how she manages projects without getting overwhelmed, reaching out to potential clients and editors (and acing your pitches), staying on top of the digital trends and so much more insight into building a business.

Follow Kellie on Instagram, Facebook, and her website, where she shares all the links to her social media platforms. Let’s tune in!

Stay creative by doing with Matt Strelecki

“Stay creative by doing.” This is just one of the many nuggets of wisdom that Matt Strelecki shared throughout the episode. Matt is an award-winning designer from Meredith Agrimedia and he has quite the impressive resume. Many of the ideas Matt and Kelsey discuss in this episode are not only for a graphic designer’s ear but ag communicators in general. We talk about design and its method of problem-solving, how to stay innovative and trendy in our industry, rebrands and redesigns, how to work on projects in addition to your full-time job, and ultimately how design always leads back to connecting with your audience. 

Check out Matt's online portfolio by clicking here. You can also follow his work on Instagram by clicking here. We also reference the DMI article called "The Value of Design" which can be found here. 

How to get started as a drone photographer/videographer with Matthew Grassi of Meister Media Worldwide

There’s a lot more to drones than just flying them! In today’s episode, Matthew Grassi of Meister Media Worldwide, shares his knowledge and experience of drone gear, regulations, ethics, and more. Learn how to utilize drones as a storytelling tool and how to be compliant for commercial use. If you’re thinking of buying a drone and making it more than just a hobby, this episode is for you!

Dicamba How-to with Pam Smith of DTN/The Progressive Farmer

Pam Smith of DTN/The Progressive Farmer has covered many topics over her journalism career. She  sits down with Kelsey to share her perspective of reporting on dicamba as crops technology editor. Pam shares how she follows a story, advice on covering controversial topics, staying objective on a story, and so much more! 

What I wish I'd known in my 20s with JoAnn Alumbaugh of Alumbaugh Communications

What I wish I'd known in my 20s - this phrase makes you stop and think! Today on the podcast, JoAnn Alumbaugh of Alumbaugh Communications takes us through her list of what she would tell her 20-year-old self. We talk about how to give and take constructive criticism, don't be afraid to say "no or not right now,"  why you shouldn't send that certain email, and more! This episode is packed with takeaways for ag communicators of all ages!

The times are changin' but can't we all still be friends? A conversation with Kenna Rathai of broadhead

PR and Editorial: A conversation between old friends - one a veteran PR professional and the other a seasoned editor - about what's really happening behind the scenes, and what we could all learn about each other's jobs. Tune in to hear Holly Spangler and Kenna Rathai's conversation today! 

Working as an international freelancer with Steve Werblow

In today’s episode, guest Steve Werblow shares how he started working abroad in Scotland when his family decided to fulfill a dream and move overseas for a short term. This move had many advantages for him as he gained a new perspective of the American agriculture industry and captured many different, interesting stories about culture and how it differs from our industry here in the U.S. In the episode, Steve also shares very valuable information about working abroad. He discusses how working remotely can enhance your ability to do your job, but also how each country has different rules on working remotely. Top tip - do your homework and research if you are ever going to work abroad.

Walking in the publisher's shoes with Holly Martin of High Plains/Midwest Ag Journal

Holly Martin began her career as an editor and now balances life as a publisher who works closely with both advertising and editorial. What has she learned from each of those roles – and what does she wish each side knew about the other? Tune in as Holly shares her perspective on being a publisher and the  advice she shares for those who are transitioning in their own careers. 

Covering the Farm Bill with Jacqui Fatka of Farm Futures and Feedstuffs

The farm bill. It is one of the most prominent topics in ag circles. But what does it take to cover such a complex topic? Jacqui Fatka, policy editor for Farm Futures and Feedstuffs, joins the Ag Comm Network podcast and shares how she covers the farm bill, stays credible as a journalist, and keeps up with the latest news.