Ep. 223 - Sentera Drone Tech + John Deere = Better Field Prescriptions
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
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Ep. 222 - New John Deere Self-Propelled Forage Harvesters: F8 & F9 Series
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.
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Ep. 221 - John Deere See & Spray™ Explained: Select vs Premium vs Ultimate
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
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Ep. 220 - 2026 John Deere Combine Upgrades: What’s New This Year
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
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Ep. 219 - How John Deere Tractor Tech Is Evolving for the Future of Farming
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
Every day, phenomenal advancements are being made in the field of agriculture technology. Whether you’re a seasoned pro in precision ag, or just getting started, this podcast provides the latest news and information you need for your success in the field.
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