Grain Marketing Education: Lessons from Agris Academy on Farm4Profit

Sep 22

Mastering Grain Marketing: Lessons from Agris Academy’s Founders

Grain marketing is one of the most complex, stressful, and misunderstood aspects of modern farming. From volatile prices and unpredictable weather to shifting global trade policies, every farmer knows the stakes are high—but few feel confident about their decisions. That’s where education—not just advice—makes the difference.

In this episode of the Farm4Profit Podcast, we sat down with Jeff Kazin and Mike Rohlfsen, co-founders of Agris Academy, to explore how their unique approach is helping farmers take control of their grain marketing strategies.

With more than 50 years of combined experience, spanning global trading floors, farming operations, and even the creation of Cargill’s first office in post-communist Ukraine, Jeff and Mike have seen nearly every scenario the grain trade can throw at producers. But instead of serving as advisors or brokers, they chose a different path: teaching farmers how to think like merchandisers.

Why Education, Not Advice

Too often, farmers rely on brokers, advisors, or neighbors for quick tips about selling grain. While advice can be useful, it rarely builds long-term confidence. Jeff and Mike believe that real change comes from education. By learning the frameworks merchandisers use, farmers can make smarter, more resilient decisions—whether the market is booming or breaking.

Their goal isn’t to predict the next price spike. It’s to empower farmers with decision-making tools that work across seasons and cycles.

Tactical Insights from the Field

During the conversation, Jeff and Mike shared what they’ve seen through Agris Academy’s Master Class students over the past year, including:

Marketing below cost of production – strategies that help farms survive tough seasons without losing focus on the bigger picture.
Dispelling myths – why there is no “silver bullet” in grain marketing and why chasing the perfect timing usually leads to frustration.
Student takeaways – what surprised farmers most in 2023/24 and how applying new frameworks improved their marketing discipline.

Their insights echo a common theme: success isn’t about reacting faster than the market—it’s about mastering your approach.

Inside the Agris Academy Master Class

The Master Class is the flagship program of Agris Academy, offering more than 40 hours of interactive instruction, real-world case studies, and open Q&A sessions. Farmers from across the U.S. enroll to sharpen their skills and build confidence in marketing decisions.

Typical students range from young producers just beginning to manage sales decisions, to multi-generation family farms looking to strengthen their business for the next decade. By focusing on frameworks rather than forecasts, the program teaches principles that remain valuable in any market condition.

Beyond the Farm: Stories from the Grain Trade

Part of what makes this conversation unforgettable are the stories Jeff and Mike share from their decades in the grain trade.

Jeff recalls the wild swings and challenges of global grain trading, from navigating contracts to dealing with sudden geopolitical shifts.
Mike reflects on the unique challenges of launching Cargill’s first office in Ukraine during the country’s early years of market reform—a crash course in risk, resilience, and opportunity.

These experiences give Agris Academy students something no textbook can: perspective.

Big Picture Takeaways for Farmers

If there’s one lesson from this episode, it’s that grain marketing isn’t about predicting prices—it’s about building discipline and confidence. Farmers who learn to think like merchandisers put themselves in a stronger position, regardless of market swings.

Jeff and Mike leave listeners with a challenge: take the first step. Whether it’s enrolling in an educational program like Agris Academy or simply committing to learn the language of merchandisers, farmers can begin reshaping their approach today.