Recorded live at Potato Expo 2026 in Dallas, Texas.

Host Lane Nordlund sits down with some of the nation's leading agriculture advocates to examine the state of agricultural labor in the U.S. and discuss the pressing need for a stable and secure workforce.

The panel explores efforts by the Agriculture Workforce Coalition to drive legislative and regulatory reforms. They address the complex intersection of border security, legal status for the existing workforce, and necessary updates to the H-2A guest worker program. The group also outlines current regulatory hurdles and how potato growers can engage with lawmakers in Washington, D.C., to amplify the industry’s voice.

Guests:

• Jonathan Sarager, Senior Federal Government Affairs Director, Western Growers
• John Walt Boatright, Director, Government Affairs, American Farm Bureau Federation
• Mike Wenkel, COO, National Potato Council

This morning, the Trump Administration released the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans, marking a significant development for U.S. potato growers. In this episode of the Eye on Potatoes podcast, National Potato Council CEO Kam Quarles and Beth Johnson of Food Directions break down the release and what it means for the industry.

They discuss the encouraging new consumer graphic that features a whole, fresh potato front and center, identifying it as a nutrient-rich vegetable that Americans should eat in greater volumes. They also analyze how specific recommendations regarding processed potato products integrate with this broader guidance.

Tune in to hear how these new guidelines represent a major shift from the federal policy challenges of the past—specifically the efforts to remove potatoes from school meal programs during the Obama Administration—to today's recognition of America's favorite vegetable.

Get ready to head to the heart of Texas for the potato industry’s premier event! In this episode, NPC CEO Kam Quarles and Vice President of Industry Relations & Events Hollee Alexander sit down to preview Potato Expo 2026, taking place Jan. 6-8, 2026, at the Gaylord Texan in Dallas.

As the largest conference and trade show for the potato industry, Potato Expo 2026 offers a can’t-miss opportunity to reunite with the potato community, spark new ideas, and shape the future of the industry. Kam and Hollee discuss what attendees can expect from their trip to Dallas, from unparalleled networking with growers and suppliers to the latest innovations on the trade show floor.

Learn more at potato-expo.com.