With over 30 years of experience in California’s agricultural industry, Nick Papagni brings a wealth of knowledge and deep Central Valley roots to his role as Agriculture News Director at AgNet West. A Fresno native, Nick has built strong ties with growers, packers, and shippers across California and Arizona through decades of hands-on experience in packaging and ag sales. As the founder of Papagni Packaging, he pioneered customized inventory solutions and served clients across the Western U.S., supporting diverse agricultural sectors including produce, dairy, wine, and ag equipment.
Nick’s professional journey includes leadership roles with companies such as Rain for Rent and Stay Tuff Fence, where he specialized in irrigation solutions and ag-focused product distribution. His reputation for innovation, relationship-building, and results-driven service has made him a respected figure throughout the Western agriculture community.
Beyond agriculture, Nick is widely known in the Central Valley as the “Pag Meter” — a leading voice in high school sports broadcasting. His career in radio spans over two decades, including hosting top-rated sports programs and serving as a public address announcer for college and high school events. His sports insight and rankings have become staples in the local community, reinforcing his dual legacy in both ag and athletics.
Nick is married to Laurie and is a proud father of four daughters: Gianna, McKenna, Tessa, and Lex. His daughter Tessa Brooks is one of the top social media influencers globally, with over 22 million followers, while Lex in the founder/creator of the “Coastal Grandmother” trend. Nick is also a grandfather to Reese Lucia, and he treasures his growing family.
A Hall of Fame athlete himself — recognized for his achievements in football and baseball at Bullard High School and Fresno State — Nick’s competitive spirit and community dedication continue to shine in every aspect of his life and work.
Nick’s professional journey includes leadership roles with companies such as Rain for Rent and Stay Tuff Fence, where he specialized in irrigation solutions and ag-focused product distribution. His reputation for innovation, relationship-building, and results-driven service has made him a respected figure throughout the Western agriculture community.
Beyond agriculture, Nick is widely known in the Central Valley as the “Pag Meter” — a leading voice in high school sports broadcasting. His career in radio spans over two decades, including hosting top-rated sports programs and serving as a public address announcer for college and high school events. His sports insight and rankings have become staples in the local community, reinforcing his dual legacy in both ag and athletics.
Nick is married to Laurie and is a proud father of four daughters: Gianna, McKenna, Tessa, and Lex. His daughter Tessa Brooks is one of the top social media influencers globally, with over 22 million followers, while Lex in the founder/creator of the “Coastal Grandmother” trend. Nick is also a grandfather to Reese Lucia, and he treasures his growing family.
A Hall of Fame athlete himself — recognized for his achievements in football and baseball at Bullard High School and Fresno State — Nick’s competitive spirit and community dedication continue to shine in every aspect of his life and work.
With over a decade of experience in agriculture news and media, Josh McGill brings a deep understanding of the industry and a passion for storytelling that connects farmers, policymakers, and the broader public. A proud graduate of the University of Florida, Josh has traveled extensively across the United States, reporting from the fields, state capitols, and everywhere in between—interviewing farmers, agribusiness leaders, and elected officials to highlight the real voices shaping American agriculture.
Josh wears many hats: seasoned broadcaster, skilled interviewer, and advocate for rural communities. His insightful reporting reflects his personal connection to the land—he owns and operates a small farm where he cultivates fruiting nursery plants and tends to bees. Whether he’s capturing the pulse of agricultural policy or sharing a grower’s story, Josh brings authenticity and dedication to every story he tells.
Outside the newsroom, Josh is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys fishing, hiking, and boating. He’s also a passionate cook and enthusiastic traveler who treasures family time with his wife and daughter.
Josh wears many hats: seasoned broadcaster, skilled interviewer, and advocate for rural communities. His insightful reporting reflects his personal connection to the land—he owns and operates a small farm where he cultivates fruiting nursery plants and tends to bees. Whether he’s capturing the pulse of agricultural policy or sharing a grower’s story, Josh brings authenticity and dedication to every story he tells.
Outside the newsroom, Josh is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys fishing, hiking, and boating. He’s also a passionate cook and enthusiastic traveler who treasures family time with his wife and daughter.