Grains on Tap is not your typical policy podcast.
We’re opening the doors of Parliament Hill and sitting down with the powerhouses of Canadian agriculture and policymaking. From Members of Parliament and Senators to government relations professionals, we sit down with the influential figures navigating the complexities of agriculture policy in the halls of Parliament. But that’s not all – each episode is paired with exceptional Canadian craft beer. As we explore agriculture policy, we also raise a glass to our growers and brewers from across the country.
Whether you’re a grain farmer, a policymaker navigating Ottawa, or simply someone fascinated by the pulse of Canadian agriculture, Grains on Tap is your gateway to a behind-the-scenes look of the intersection of agriculture and politics. So grab your favourite beer, kick back, and let’s cultivate a deeper understanding of the policies that shape our fields.
Grains on Tap is a production by Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) and hosted by GGC Executive Director Kyle Larkin.
Welcome back to our last episode of the season!
As Parliament wraps up, major decisions loom for Canada’s grain sector. From shifting global trade dynamics, to transportation pressures at home, to growing uncertainty in key export markets, producers are navigating a landscape that’s evolving by the day.
In this episode, we sit down with the Honourable Buckley Belanger, newly elected Member of Parliament for Desnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River and Canada’s Secretary of State for Rural Development. With over thirty years of experience in public life, spanning municipal, provincial, and now federal politics, Buckley brings a unique perspective shaped by his northern Saskatchewan roots and deep understanding of rural communities.
We explore his journey from Île-à-la-Crosse to the House of Commons, the values that guided his path in politics, and his early priorities in his new federal role. From international trade tensions and rail capacity challenges to broadband expansion and the future of rural economic development, Buckley offers candid insights into the issues that matter most to grain farmers.
So, pour yourself a cold one and tune in as we break down the policies shaping Canadian grain farming, right here on Grains on Tap.
Thank you to Beer Canada for sponsoring this podcast.
1 Dec 2025
Season 2 | Episode 6: Emma Harrison
Grains on Tap is back with a new episode.
With Parliament deep into a busy sitting and major decisions ahead for Canada’s grain sector, the policy landscape is shifting fast. From uncertainty in key export markets, to infrastructure pressures at home, to the upcoming 2026 CUSMA review, grain farmers are facing a pivotal moment for long-term competitiveness.
In this episode, we sit down with Member of Parliament Emma Harrison, a third-generation farmer who was recently elected to represent Peterborough, Ontario. Emma shares her journey from growing up on a family farm in Selwyn Township to taking her seat in the House of Commons, bringing a grounded perspective shaped by real on-farm experience.
We explore her transition into federal politics, her work on the Agriculture and Agri-Food Committee, and the issues she believes are most important for producers today. From trade uncertainty and research funding to rural leadership and support for farm families, Emma offers candid insights on the challenges and opportunities ahead for Canada’s grain sector.
So, pour yourself a cold one and tune in as we explore the policies shaping Canadian grain farming, right here on Grains on Tap.
17 Nov 2025
Season 2 | Episode 5: David Bexte
After a busy few weeks on Parliament Hill, Grains on Tap is back with another episode.
With Budget 2025 now tabled and parliamentarians deep into the fall sitting, grain farmers are watching a fast-moving policy landscape. From escalating trade tensions to stalled infrastructure priorities, it is a critical moment for Canada’s grain sector.
Joining us this week is David Bexte, the newly elected Member of Parliament for Bow River, Alberta. Born and raised on a multi-generational grain farm and bringing more than 25 years of experience from the oil and gas sector, David offers a unique perspective on how Ottawa’s decisions ripple back to rural communities.
In this episode, David walks us through his journey from the farm to the private sector to the House of Commons. He reflects on what surprised him most about life on the Hill, shares his early experience on the Environment and Sustainable Development Committee, and weighs in on the issues dominating conversations across the agriculture sector.
We dig into the mounting trade uncertainty facing Canadian farmers, his reaction to Budget 2025, and the federal government’s new “nation-building” infrastructure agenda – including why the absence of the Port of Vancouver stands out.
So, pour yourself a cold one and tune in as we sit down with a new voice in Parliament bringing producer experience directly to Ottawa, right here on Grains on Tap.
A special thank you to Beer Canada for sponsoring this podcast.
29 Aug 2025
Season 2 | Episode 4: Peter Watts
After a quick summer break, Grains on Tap is back with another episode!
As harvest commences across the country, Canada’s barley is once again in the spotlight. From global trade dynamics to changing consumer trends, the future of malting barley and beer has never been more important to farmers, brewers, and drinkers alike.
Joining us this week is Peter Watts, Managing Director of the Canadian Malting Barley Technical Centre (CMBTC). Since 2014, Peter has led the Centre’s work to support Canada’s barley value chain, from world-class research and technical support to strengthening export markets and connecting farmers with maltsters and brewers worldwide.
In this episode, Peter walks us through the story of Canadian malting barley, from the field to the pint glass. He reflects on the challenges and opportunities for farmers in a shifting trade environment, highlights why Canada’s barley is considered the best in the world, and shares his outlook on where the beer and malting industry is headed. We also dive into his recent new crop tour, exploring what makes Canada competitive and what farmers should watch for in the year ahead.
So, pour yourself a cold one and tune in as we sit down with a leader helping shape the future of Canadian barley, right here on Grains on Tap.
A special thank you to Beer Canada for sponsoring this podcast.
23 Jun 2025
Season 2 | Episode 3: MP Randy Hoback
Member of Parliament Randy Hoback discusses Canada's evolving trade relationships and the critical need to modernize export infrastructure, offering insights on global trade as an advocate for agriculture in an interview.
22 Apr 2025
Season 2 | Episode 2: Senator Todd Lewis
Grains on Tap is back with a new episode!
As we approach the end of the federal election, the stakes for Canadian grain farmers continue to rise — from tariffs imposed by China, to uncertainty in the U.S. market, to domestic policies such as the carbon tax and capital gains tax increase.
To break it all down, we’re joined by recently appointed Senator Todd Lewis, a fourth-generation grain farmer from Saskatchewan and longtime agriculture advocate who served as President of the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan and Vice-President of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture.
In this episode, Senator Lewis reflects on four decades of farming and ag policy, his transition into the Senate, and why infrastructure, trade stability, and a strong voice for farmers in Ottawa are more important than ever. From labour disruptions and global trade risks to farmland succession and the future of ag policy, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the upper chamber — and to this conversation.
So, pour yourself a cold one and tune in as we explore what’s at stake this election and beyond for Canadian grain farmers, right here on Grains on Tap.
31 Mar 2025
Season 2 | Episode 1: Senator Mary Robinson
Grains on Tap is back for Season 2!
Since the end of the last season in December, things have dramatically changed in Ottawa. From the proroguing of Parliament and Prime Minister Trudeau stepping down, to the widespread threat of tariffs from the new U.S. administration, to the swearing in of a new Prime Minister and the start of a federal election.
We have a lot to discuss and to kick things off, we’re joined by Senator Mary Robinson — a sixth-generation farmer from Prince Edward Island and former President of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture — who brings a unique agricultural lens to the upper chamber.
In this episode, Senator Robinson shares her journey from the family farm to the Senate, and weighs in on key issues impacting our sector — including mounting trade tensions with the U.S. and China, the road ahead with the carbon tax and much more. With deep agricultural roots and a sharp policy lens, she brings another producer voice to the table at a pivotal time for the sector.
So, pour yourself a cold one and settle in for another conversation about the intersection of agriculture and politics, right here on Grains on Tap.
16 Dec 2024
Grains on Tap | Episode 8: MP Yves Perron
Welcome back to Grains on Tap! In this special episode, we’re doing something a little different by interviewing our guest entirely in French.
This month, we crack a beer with Yves Perron, MP for Berthier-Maskinongé and the Bloc Québécois’ spokesperson for agriculture, agri-food, and supply management. From his journey as a history teacher to his role as Vice-Chair of the House of Commons Agriculture and Agri-Food Committee, Yves shares insights into his passion for agriculture, the policies he champions, and the impact of key bills like C-234 and C-282 on Canada’s agricultural sector.
So, pour yourself a cold one and settle in for another engaging conversation about the intersection of agriculture and politics right here on Grains on Tap. A special thank you to Beer Canada for sponsoring this episode. For more information on the Grain Growers of Canada, visit our website at graingrowers.ca.
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Bienvenue à Grains on Tap ! Dans cet épisode spécial, nous faisons quelque chose d’un peu différent en interviewant notre invité entièrement en français.
Ce mois-ci, nous ouvrons une bière avec Yves Perron, député de Berthier-Maskinongé et porte-parole du Bloc québécois en matière d’agriculture, d’agroalimentaire et de la gestion de l’offre. De son parcours en tant qu’enseignant d’histoire à son rôle de vice-président du Comité de l’agriculture et de l’agroalimentaire de la Chambre des communes, Yves nous fait part de sa passion pour l’agriculture, des politiques qu’il défend et de l’impact des projets de loi comme C-234 et C-282 sur le secteur agricole canadien.
Alors, servez-vous une bière bien fraîche et installez-vous pour une autre conversation intéressante sur l’intersection de l’agriculture et de la politique ici même sur Grains on Tap. Un merci spécial à Bière Canada pour avoir commandité cet épisode. Pour plus d’informations sur les Producteurs de grains du Canada, visitez notre site web à graingrowers.ca.
18 Nov 2024
Grains on Tap | Episode 7: Senator Rob Black
Senator Rob Black shares his expert perspective as Chair of the Senate Agriculture and Forestry Committee on key issues shaping Canada's agricultural future.
31 Oct 2024
Grains on Tap | Episode 6: Senator Colin Deacon
We're back with another episode of Grains on Tap!
With Parliament now in full swing, we’re excited to dive into the latest issues at the heart of agriculture and politics. Joining us this episode is Senator Colin Deacon, a strong advocate for competition and a continued champion for grain farmers in the Senate.
In this episode, we explore key issues that are impacting producers across the country, from right to repair legislation to the critical need for fair competition in sectors like rail transportation. Senator Deacon shares his thoughts on these pressing topics and how they’re shaping Canada’s agricultural future.
So, pour yourself a cold one and settle in for another engaging conversation about the intersection of agriculture and politics, right here on Grains on Tap.
A special thank you to Beer Canada for sponsoring this episode. For more information on the Grain Growers of Canada, visit our website at graingrowers.ca
1 Oct 2024
Grains on Tap | Episode 5: MP Kody Blois
We're back with another episode of Grains on Tap!
We’re excited to dive into the latest in agriculture and politics as Members of Parliament and Senators return to Ottawa.
Our guest is no stranger to agriculture. Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings-Hants in Nova Scotia and Chair of the House of Commons Agriculture and Agri-Food Committee, joins us for an insightful conversation. We’re covering crucial policy changes that grain farmers need to watch closely and how these developments are shaping the agricultural landscape in Canada. This includes the capital gains tax increase, Bill C-234 and more.
So, pour yourself a cold one and settle in for another discussion about the intersection of agriculture and politics right here on Grains on Tap.
A special thank you to Beer Canada for sponsoring this episode and the podcast. For more information on the Grain Growers of Canada, please visit our website at: https://graingrowers.ca/
20 Aug 2024
Grains on Tap | Episode 4: CJ Hélie
We're back with another episode of Grains on Tap!
This week, we're excited to have CJ Hélie, President of Beer Canada, join us for a conversation that goes beyond just raising a glass. With over 25 years in the Canadian beverage alcohol industry, CJ brings a wealth of experience, representing brewers who purchase more than 300,000 tonnes of Canadian grain annually. From the crucial relationship between Canadian grain farmers and brewers to the impactful advocacy work around the excise tax, CJ shares insights that highlight the deep connection between agriculture and beer.
We'll also dive into the importance of Canadian Beer Day, the influence of crop yields on brewing, and the key policies that grain farmers need to keep an eye on.
So, pour yourself a cold one and settle in for an engaging discussion about the intersection of grains, beer, and policy.
A special thank you to Beer Canada for sponsoring this episode and the podcast. For more information on the Grain Growers of Canada, please visit our website at: https://graingrowers.ca/
5 Jun 2024
Grains on Tap | Episode 3: Erin Gowriluk
We're back with another episode of Grains on Tap!
This week, we're joined by Erin Gowriluk, President of the Canada Grains Council and former Executive Director of Grain Growers of Canada. With over a decade of experience in agriculture policy, Erin has been a strong advocate for grain farmers through her various roles.
In this episode, Erin shares her insights from her time at GGC and her current position, discussing some of the issues currently facing the agriculture sector. Key topics include the recent CFIA finalized guidance on gene-edited plants, international trade, and the transformation of the Pest Management Regulatory Agency.
So, grab your favourite craft beer and settle in for another episode of Grains on Tap.
Thank you to Beer Canada for sponsoring this episode and podcast: https://industry.beercanada.com/ (https://industry.beercanada.com/)
For more information on the Grain Growers of Canada, please visit our website at: https://graingrowersofcanada.ca/ (https://graingrowersofcanada.ca/)
28 Mar 2024
Grains on Tap | Episode 2: MP Francis Drouin
Welcome back to Grains on Tap, where Canadian agriculture policy and craft beer intersect.
We're joined by Francis Drouin, Member of Parliament for Glengarry-Prescott-Russell, Ontario and the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. Since taking office in 2015, Francis has been a fervent supporter of farmers and a proponent of economic development in rural communities. He also understands the intersection of government and public affairs, having worked in government relations both as a consultant and for a not-for-profit.
But Francis didn't arrive empty-handed! Joining us on a late Monday afternoon, he's here with good news related to the Advanced Payments Program (APP). So, grab your favourite craft beer and settle in for another episode of Grains on Tap.
Thank you to Beer Canada for sponsoring this episode and podcast: https://industry.beercanada.com/ (https://industry.beercanada.com/)
For more information on the Grain Growers of Canada, please visit our website at: https://graingrowersofcanada.ca/ (https://graingrowersofcanada.ca/)
21 Feb 2024
Grains on Tap | Episode 1: MP Branden Leslie
Welcome to the inaugural episode of Grains on Tap, the podcast where the world of Canadian agriculture policy meets craft beer.
Our journey through the corridors of power and the fields of grain begins with a special guest, Branden Leslie, Member of Parliament for Portage-Lisgar and a proud alumnus of the Grain Growers of Canada. Branden, a native of Portage La Prairie, Manitoba, brings a wealth of knowledge from his time as a political advisor and his tenure as the manager of policy and government relations with the GGC, to his recent election to the House of Commons.
As we sit down with Branden on a late Friday afternoon, fresh from his duties at the House of Commons, we'll dive into the intersection of agriculture and politics, his journey from advocacy to elected office, and how these experiences shape his views on the future of Canadian agriculture. And, as we're doing this over a couple of well-deserved beers, we'll also touch on the lighter side of life, including Brandon's recent venture into fatherhood.
Thank you to Beer Canada for sponsoring this episode and podcast: https://industry.beercanada.com/
For more information on the Grain Growers of Canada, please visit our website at: https://graingrowersofcanada.ca/ (https://graingrowersofcanada.ca/)
Reach and audience
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YouTube views
27,220
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Spotify
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 33 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
11
Social presence
0
YouTube
76
Engagement
60
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