Dr. Scott Brown, an Associate Extension Professor at the University of Missouri-Columbia, discusses the nuances of agriculture, likening various sectors to a balloon with a slow leak. Raised on a farm himself, he understands the industry's complexities firsthand, driven by a lifelong passion for farming. As he prepares for retirement, Brown's dedication to informing policymakers and aiding farmers remains steadfast. With a keen eye on the agricultural landscape, he navigates the challenges ahead, urging caution and foresight. Through initiatives like the Rural & Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center, Brown collaborates with economists nationwide to assess the sector's trajectory. In a climate of shifting commodity prices and production costs, his insights shed light on the delicate balance within the agricultural economy.