The Local Podcast

Clay talks with Kyle Holt, CEO of the South Dakota AG Foundation, about the organization's mission to support the future of the state's number one industry. Kyle explains how the foundation is addressing major challenges in agriculture, particularly the massive transfer of wealth facing an aging generation of producers. Learn about their flagship "Keep Farmers Farming" initiative, which provides legacy consultants to help families navigate the complex succession planning process. Since taking over the program in January, the foundation has more than doubled the number of farm families it serves, now assisting over 100 with their transition plans.

In this vital episode of The Local Podcast, host Clay Birkeland welcomes back Dylan Clarkson, President and CEO of Pioneer Bank and Trust, for a critical conversation on the evolving landscape of financial fraud. With real-time updates from the South Dakota Bankers Association, Dylan outlines how scams—from Bitcoin traps to AI-generated voice impersonations—are becoming more sophisticated and harder to detect.Together, Clay and Dylan explore current fraud trends, including investment cons, cybercrimes, business email compromise, and romance scams, with a special focus on those targeting older Americans. They detail how scammers coach victims to bypass bank scrutiny, using urgency and emotional manipulation to override rational decision-making.Listeners will learn:How recent scams are structured and deployed in South DakotaWhy “kindly” might be a red flag in suspicious emailsWhy increased scrutiny from your bank is a sign of protection, not intrusionFive (or more) practical ways to prevent yourself or loved ones from falling victim to fraudWhether you're a business owner, retiree, or everyday consumer, this episode provides actionable tips to stay safe in a time when digital deception is just a click—or phone call—away.

In this episode of The Local Podcast, host Clay Birkeland dives into the future of water in Western South Dakota with guests Kristen Conzet and Corey Chorne from the Western Dakota Regional Water System. From the roots of a study at the School of Mines to the billion-dollar pipeline vision pulling from the Missouri River, the trio explores drought concerns, population growth, and the long road toward sustainable, reliable water infrastructure. It’s a fascinating look at the work happening today to ensure taps keep flowing tomorrow—because out here, water isn't just life, it’s livelihood.Learn more at wd-rws.org

Welcome to the Local Podcast, live from the Black Hills Stock Show! Host Clay Birkeland sits down with Gary Cammack of Union Center—a lifelong South Dakota rancher, businessman, and public servant. They discuss Gary’s journey from growing up on a remote ranch to building a successful supply business, his time in public service, and his ongoing efforts to improve local infrastructure and support agricultural research. Packed with stories of hard work, business innovation, and lessons learned along the way, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the spirit of the American rancher.

On this episode of The Local Podcast, host Clay Birkeland sits down with Representative Dusty Johnson during the Black Hills Stock Show. They dive into key issues affecting South Dakota, from trade tariffs and farm bills to foreign ownership of U.S. farmland. Dusty shares insights on border security, forest management, and the future of estate taxes, while also giving a behind-the-scenes look at recent meetings with former President Trump. Plus, he reveals his go-to road snack! Tune in for an informative and candid discussion on the policies shaping our region.

In this episode, host Clay Birkeland, Senior VP and Director of Agricultural Banking at Pioneer Bank & Trust, dives into the world of risk management in agriculture—because let’s face it, ranching isn’t for the faint of heart. From unpredictable weather to fluctuating markets, every season brings new challenges.Joining the conversation are Taylor Mohnen and Dana Kerns from Crew Agency Agri-Risk Management, experts in helping ranchers navigate the financial uncertainties of the ag world. Whether you’re a producer looking for better ways to manage risk or just curious about the business side of ranching, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

On this episode, Clay Birkeland talks with Ron Jeffries, General Manager of the Black Hills Stock Show about all the news and happenings at this year's event.

Join Clay Birkeland talking with James Selchert, Senator Mike Rounds’ Ag Advisor. They’ll be discussing current ag policy and his role in serving the people of South Dakota.