Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
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| Andy LaVigne: Everything Starts With Seed | 01 Jun 2026 | 00:39:26 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Andy LaVigne, CEO of the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), for a wide-ranging conversation about seed, global trade, technology, and the future direction of agriculture. Andy defines intentional leadership through one core principle: Be purposeful with your stakeholders. Whether it’s board members, policymakers, seed companies, or farmers, leadership means creating clarity, building trust, and helping people understand how their role contributes to the bigger mission. And in agriculture, few missions are bigger than seed. As Andy explains throughout the episode: Everything starts with seed. From corn and soybeans to vegetables, flowers, turf, and conservation land, nearly every food system and agricultural supply chain begins with one critical decision—the seed a farmer chooses to plant. That decision is deeply personal. Farmers only get one opportunity each season to put a crop in the ground. If the seed doesn’t perform, there’s often no second chance. That’s why trust between farmers, seed companies, and local representatives matters so much. The conversation also pulls back the curtain on how global the seed business truly is. While many people think of seed as local, the industry depends heavily on international trade and movement:
Andy explains how tariffs and shifting trade policy are creating new challenges for the industry—especially when seed moves internationally for research purposes before ultimately returning to the U.S. market. A major theme throughout the episode is this: Agriculture is entering an inflection point. For decades, the industry rallied around one central mission: Feed the world. And while food security still matters deeply, Andy and Mark discuss how agriculture may need a new North Star for the future. What does agriculture look like 20 years from now? What markets will matter most? What qualities will consumers demand? And how do we build systems that adapt to rapid technological and economic change? The conversation explores opportunities around:
One of the most fascinating parts of the discussion centers on how AI is accelerating plant breeding. Using predictive tools, companies can now model genetic outcomes with remarkable accuracy—dramatically reducing the time required to evaluate potential varieties and helping breeders focus faster on high-performing traits like disease resistance, shelf life, flavor, and yield. The episode also highlights the importance of leadership during periods of rapid change. Technology is moving faster than ever. Expectations are shifting. Markets are evolving. And leaders across agriculture will need to think beyond short-term cycles and begin preparing for what the next generation of farming could become. Because the future of agriculture won’t just be shaped by what we grow. It will be shaped by how intentionally we innovate, collaborate, and lead. Listen if you are:
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| Eric Mittenthal: Leading the Conversation Around Meat | 25 May 2026 | 00:31:50 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Eric Mittenthal, Chief Strategy Officer at the Meat Institute, for a timely conversation about trust, transparency, nutrition, and the future of animal protein. Eric defines intentional leadership through the lens of purpose: Feeding people well. At its core, the meat industry exists to provide safe, nutritious, nutrient-dense protein that people trust. But in today’s world—where consumers are flooded with conflicting information, social media opinions, and health claims—earning that trust has become more complicated than ever. A major theme throughout the conversation is this: Trust can’t just be claimed. It has to be proven. Eric explains how the industry is working to move beyond messaging and toward measurable proof points around:
The Meat Institute has spent years collecting industry-wide data and building measurable standards designed to support continuous improvement across the entire supply chain. Because in an era of declining institutional trust, transparency matters more than ever. The conversation also explores the challenge of navigating modern food culture. Consumers are overwhelmed with labels, opinions, and competing narratives:
And often, the loudest voices aren’t the most informed. Eric shares how the industry approaches these conversations—not by attacking consumer choices, but by providing options, education, and science-backed information that allows families to decide what aligns with their own values. Another key topic is the growing recognition of protein’s role in human health. For years, mainstream nutrition messaging often minimized animal protein. But today, there’s increasing scientific acknowledgment around the nutrient density and bioavailability of meat—especially when paired with plants as part of a balanced diet. The conversation also highlights one of the most powerful ideas in leadership and business: Continuous improvement. Not perfection. Progress. Eric explains how the industry focuses on identifying “best of the best” practices and helping companies adopt them more broadly over time. Whether it’s reducing injuries, improving animal handling, or strengthening food safety systems, the mindset is always the same: There is always a better standard to pursue. The episode closes with a reminder that intentional leadership requires humility. No industry, organization, or person has everything figured out. But the leaders who continue to improve, continue to measure, and continue to pursue trust through action are the ones who create lasting impact. Because in today’s world, people don’t just want information. They want proof. Listen if you are:
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| Tim Bucher: Pause. Think. Build the Future | 18 May 2026 | 00:43:26 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Tim Bucher, CEO and co-founder of Agtonomy, for a powerful conversation at the intersection of agriculture, technology, and leadership. Tim defines intentional leadership in a way that cuts through the noise: Pause. Think. In a world that rewards speed, the most effective leaders create space—however small—to process, evaluate, and respond with clarity. That simple act of thinking is what separates reactive leadership from intentional leadership. Tim’s journey is anything but typical. Raised in agriculture, he built his own farming operation at a young age while simultaneously building a career in Silicon Valley—working alongside leaders like Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and Michael Dell. For decades, he kept those two worlds separate. Until now. With Agtonomy, Tim has brought agriculture and technology together to solve one of the industry’s biggest challenges: Labor. Agriculture is facing a shrinking workforce, rising costs, and increasing pressure to get more done with less. Agtonomy is addressing that challenge through what Tim calls physical AI—intelligence embedded in machines that can perform real-world work. Not just data. Not just insights. Work. By integrating AI into existing equipment, Agtonomy enables one operator to manage multiple machines at once—turning a one-to-one labor model into a one-to-many system. The result is increased efficiency, improved safety, and a meaningful shift in how work gets done on the farm. A key theme throughout the episode is this: Growers don’t need more data. They need help getting the job done. That distinction matters. While much of the recent focus on AI has centered around digital tools and information, the next wave of innovation is physical—machines that can think, adapt, and execute in real environments. The conversation also addresses the concern many people have around automation: Will it take jobs? Tim offers a different perspective. In industries like agriculture, the problem isn’t too many workers—it’s not enough. With an aging workforce and fewer people entering the field, the only path forward is innovation. Not replacement. Adaptation. The episode also explores lessons from some of the most iconic leaders in tech. Tim shares how leaders like Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and Michael Dell each operated with a clear mantra—design, software, cost—that guided their decisions and aligned their organizations. Clarity at the top creates alignment throughout. Tim’s own mantra? “Show me.” In industries like agriculture, results matter more than ideas. The fastest way to build trust is to prove that something works in the real world. The episode closes with a powerful reminder: We are living through another industrial revolution. Not mechanical— but technological. And the leaders who will shape the next 100 years aren’t the ones resisting it. They’re the ones willing to pause, think, and build what comes next. Listen if you are:
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| Grant Fitzgerald: When “In Spite Of” Becomes Your Advantage | 11 May 2026 | 00:34:52 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Grant Fitzgerald, Senior Vice President at Farmers National Company, for a conversation that blends leadership, land management, and the evolving role of agriculture as an asset class. Grant defines intentional leadership through a simple but powerful lens: “In spite of X.” There will always be obstacles—fatigue, workload, uncertainty, or discomfort. Intentional leaders don’t wait for ideal conditions. They move forward anyway. That mindset has shaped Grant’s career—from a non-traditional ag background to leading a business that manages over 2 million acres across the United States. A major theme throughout the episode is growth under pressure. In land management, growth isn’t optional—it’s required. Farms change hands, generational transitions happen, and portfolios evolve. Leaders must continually build relationships, expand their network, and replace what is naturally lost over time. And often, that growth happens in the moments you least feel like doing the work. Stopping for one more conversation. Making one more call. Building one more relationship. That’s the difference. The conversation also explores a major shift happening in farmland ownership. Agricultural land is increasingly being viewed as an asset class, not just a legacy. While previous generations were deeply connected to the land through personal history, newer owners are more focused on return on investment, portfolio performance, and efficiency. That shift is changing expectations.
At the same time, the economics of farming are under pressure. Rising input costs, tighter margins, and increased financial stress are creating a more complex environment for both operators and landowners. While agriculture remains resilient, the margin for error is shrinking—and clarity in decision-making is more important than ever. On the leadership side, Grant shares one of the most real challenges of stepping into a senior role: Reinventing yourself. What got you here won’t get you there. Leadership requires:
And perhaps most importantly—being willing to be misunderstood at times. The conversation closes with a powerful reminder about building teams and culture. You can teach skills. You can develop expertise. But you can’t manufacture passion and willingness. The best organizations are built by people who want to be there—and leaders who are intentional about creating an environment where those people can thrive. Because in agriculture, as in leadership, success doesn’t come from avoiding challenges. It comes from moving forward… In spite of them. Listen if you are:
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| Rob Dongoski: Seeing What Others Miss in Agriculture | 04 May 2026 | 00:42:27 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Rob Dongoski, Ag & Food Partner at Kearney, for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, consulting, and where the agriculture industry is headed next. Rob defines intentional leadership in a way that hits at the core: Clarity. Knowing your purpose. Aligning your actions to it. And giving people around you enough visibility into your intentions that even when you fall short, they understand where you’re coming from. Because failure isn’t the issue. Lack of clarity is. The conversation dives into the unique role consulting plays in agriculture. Leaders inside organizations often become insulated—seeing the same problems and relying on the same solutions. Consultants bring a different lens, connecting insights across the entire food system—from consumer demand all the way back to production. That outside perspective matters. Because the biggest shifts in agriculture don’t start on the farm. They start with the consumer. Rob highlights a major shift already underway: The convergence of nutrition and health. For decades, agriculture focused on feeding the world—producing more calories, more efficiently. But the next chapter is different. It’s not just about how much we produce. It’s about what we produce—and why it matters. Consumers—especially younger generations—are becoming more intentional about what they eat. They’re willing to spend more on food that aligns with health, longevity, and values. This is creating a new reality: A “K-shaped” food system.
Both markets will exist. But leaders need to understand which one they’re serving—and build accordingly. The conversation also touches on the power of pattern recognition. Working across the entire food system gives Rob and his team visibility into trends others might miss. Changes in consumer preferences ripple backward—impacting commodities, supply chains, and production decisions long before they show up in headlines. The leaders who win are the ones who see those signals early. Not the ones reacting late. The episode closes with a powerful reminder: The future of agriculture may not be entirely new. In many ways, it’s a return to what once was—knowing where food comes from, how it’s produced, and building trust with the consumer. Because the next era of agriculture won’t be defined by scale alone. It will be defined by clarity, connection, and purpose. Listen if you are:
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| Gavin Rulon: AI Won’t Replace You—But It Will Expose You | 27 Apr 2026 | 00:45:18 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Gavin Rulon, Emerging Technology Advisor at Beck’s Hybrids, for a timely and practical conversation about AI, leadership, and how to stay relevant in a rapidly changing world. Gavin defines intentionality in a way that cuts deeper than most: It’s deciding how you think—not just what you do. In a world full of constant inputs, distractions, and incomplete information, intentional leaders don’t just react. They step back, process, and make the best possible decision with the data available—while staying open to adjust as new information comes in. That mindset becomes critical as AI continues to evolve. The conversation breaks down the role of AI in agriculture—not as a replacement for people, but as a tool to enhance how work gets done. From writing emails and building presentations to analyzing data and creating training materials, AI is already compressing hours (or days) of work into minutes. But the biggest opportunity isn’t in the technology itself. It’s in how leaders choose to use it. A key theme throughout the episode is this: AI should be a thought partner—not a thought leader. Gavin emphasizes that the most effective users of AI are those who already have domain knowledge. The tool amplifies what you know—it doesn’t replace the need to think. Leaders who rely on it to do their thinking risk losing their edge entirely. The conversation also highlights practical applications that are already making an impact:
At the same time, the discussion addresses one of the biggest concerns surrounding AI: job displacement. Gavin takes an optimistic view. Jobs will change—just like they always have with new technology. But the leaders who adapt, learn, and stay engaged will find more opportunity, not less. The real risk isn’t losing your job to AI. It’s losing your agency to it. The episode closes with a powerful reminder: Technology should free up time for what matters most—relationships, conversations, and meaningful work. The best leaders won’t use AI to do more. They’ll use it to do what matters better. Because the future won’t belong to those who avoid AI. It will belong to those who use it—intentionally. Listen if you are:
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| Jay Vroom: Listening is Leadership | 20 Apr 2026 | 00:45:14 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Jay Vroom, President of VroomLeigh Agriculture and former CEO of CropLife America, for a powerful conversation shaped by over 45 years of leadership in agriculture. Jay defines intentional leadership in one word: Listening. Not hearing—but truly listening. Across decades of leadership, Jay has seen more failures come from a lack of listening than almost anything else. When leaders take the time to understand perspectives, empathize, and prepare for conversations, their decisions and communication carry far greater impact. But listening requires more than presence—it requires preparation. Great leaders don’t show up reacting. They anticipate. They understand who’s in the room, where people come from, and what matters to them. In a global, highly connected agricultural industry, that level of awareness is no longer optional. The conversation also dives into one of the most defining challenges of Jay’s career: leading through the repeal of the Delaney Clause. What started as a regulatory issue quickly became a national crisis—fueled by media, public perception, and fear. It took eight years, hundreds of organizations, and relentless persistence to build a coalition strong enough to change the law. The lesson? Big problems don’t get solved alone. They require patience, alignment, and the ability to bring people together around a shared objective—even when opinions differ. Looking forward, Jay highlights a critical inflection point for agriculture. Innovation is accelerating—but regulatory bottlenecks are slowing progress. The cost and complexity of bringing new technologies to market continue to rise, creating real risk for the future of crop protection and food production. At the same time, the opportunity has never been greater. Precision agriculture, digital tools, and new technologies have the potential to dramatically improve how we grow food—making it more efficient, more sustainable, and more responsive to consumer needs. But success will depend on more than innovation. It will depend on storytelling. Agriculture must do a better job communicating its value—particularly around environmental outcomes, sustainability, and the quality of food being produced. The next chapter isn’t just about feeding the world. It’s about feeding the world better. And that requires leaders who are willing to listen, adapt, and engage in conversations that aren’t always easy—but are absolutely necessary. Because leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being willing to hear what others are trying to say. Listen if you are:
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| Matthew Bartek: Building Markets, Not Just Crops | 13 Apr 2026 | 00:31:46 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Matt Bartek, North American Commercial Lead at Innovative Seed Solutions, for a forward-looking conversation about intentional leadership, product development, and the future of sorghum. Matt defines intentionality with clarity: start with the end in mind. Before developing a product, building a market, or leading a team, you have to know what you’re aiming for. Without that clarity, it’s easy to move—but hard to arrive. At Innovative Seed Solutions, that mindset shows up in a unique way. As a genetics supplier, they don’t sell directly to farmers—but every decision starts with the farmer in mind. If the product improves profitability, resilience, or simplicity at the farm level, everything else in the supply chain works better. The conversation dives into what it really takes to bring a seed product to market. From breeding and research to production, supply chain, and commercial strategy, success depends on understanding how every piece fits together. Matt emphasizes the importance of helping teams see beyond their role—so they understand how their work contributes to the full system. A key theme throughout the episode is investment in people. Rather than treating training and development as an expense, Matt shares how their team creates cross-functional experiences—bringing employees across regions and roles to see the full lifecycle of the product. When people understand the impact of their work, engagement and ownership increase. The conversation also highlights sorghum as a crop with untapped potential. From food products and livestock feed to ethanol and sustainability applications, sorghum offers versatility, efficiency, and adaptability in environments where other crops struggle. But the future of sorghum—and agriculture more broadly—depends on building markets, not just growing supply. That means expanding domestic use, developing new applications, and aligning production with real demand. The episode closes with a bigger question for the industry: If we’re no longer the lowest-cost producer, what is our North Star? For Matt, the answer lies in building sustainable systems—where farmers can remain profitable, operations can pass to the next generation, and agriculture continues to evolve with intention. Because the future of agriculture won’t be defined by what we grow. It will be defined by how we think. Listen if you are:
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| Lane Kreiling: Leading in the Trenches | 06 Apr 2026 | 00:34:13 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Lane Kreiling, Sales Support Manager at Beck’s Hybrids, for a real-world conversation about leadership where it actually happens—on the ground, in the middle of the season, when everything is moving fast and pressure is high. Lane defines intentional leadership simply: understand your people. Know what motivates them, what challenges them, and how they operate. Leadership isn’t just about getting the job done—it’s about making sure your team can show up the right way, both at work and at home. In a role that sits at the center of logistics, customer service, and internal coordination, Lane’s job is less about moving product—and more about taking care of people. When customers are taken care of, everything else falls into place. The conversation highlights the reality of seasonality in agriculture. When spring hits, the pressure is on. Emotions run high, decisions speed up, and leaders are forced to balance urgency with discipline. One of Lane’s key responsibilities is helping customers slow down just enough to make the right decision—not just the fast one. A major theme throughout the episode is clarity under pressure. Whether it’s managing inventory across multiple locations, coordinating shipments, or communicating with dealers, success comes down to clear expectations, simple systems, and constant communication—even if that sometimes looks like a desk calendar and a quick conversation across the room. Lane also shares a powerful leadership insight rooted in his ag education background: everyone learns differently. Great leaders don’t force one style—they meet people where they are. Some learn by listening, some by watching, others by doing. If you can’t adapt your approach, you can’t lead effectively. The conversation also touches on one of the most overlooked leadership skills: communication tone. Knowing when to be direct and when to be more thoughtful in delivery can determine whether your message creates clarity—or conflict. The episode closes with a reminder that leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. In high-pressure seasons, energy comes from shared experience. Teams that go through challenges together build trust, resilience, and a sense of ownership that can’t be manufactured. Because at the end of the day, leadership in agriculture isn’t built in boardrooms. It’s built in the trenches. Listen if you are:
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| Steve Polski: From Waste to Value | 30 Mar 2026 | 00:37:36 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Steve Polski, CEO of PermanentFarming, for a conversation that challenges the way we think about waste, energy, and the future of food production. Steve defines intentional leadership as having the courage to challenge the status quo—and backing that conviction with action. In a world of rapid environmental, economic, and political change, doing what’s always been done is no longer enough. At PermanentFarming, that mindset is driving a bold idea: turning manure into multiple high-value outputs. By combining proven technologies—covered barns, anaerobic digestion, and soil amendment processing—the team is building a system that converts cattle waste into renewable natural gas and biological soil inputs. Not by reinventing agriculture, but by stacking existing innovations in a way that finally makes economic sense. The result is a true “and-and” model:
This isn’t theory—it’s a systems approach to solving multiple problems at once. A key theme throughout the episode is that agriculture doesn’t need either/or solutions. It needs integrated systems that create value across the entire supply chain. Synthetic inputs and biological solutions can—and should—work together. The conversation also highlights the importance of timing. With rising input costs, increased demand for protein, and growing interest in renewable energy, the industry is at a point of transformation. The opportunity isn’t just innovation—it’s alignment across farmers, investors, and end markets. Beyond the business model, Steve shares what it takes to build a team capable of executing something this complex. High-performing teams are built intentionally—with complementary skill sets, shared values, and trust that is earned over time. Alignment doesn’t happen automatically. It requires consistent effort. The episode closes with a broader perspective on leadership and impact. Agriculture has the opportunity to produce more—more energy, more food, more value—without waste. But it requires leaders willing to think differently, act intentionally, and build systems that serve everyone involved. Because the future of agriculture won’t be built on doing more of the same. It will be built by rethinking what’s possible. Listen if you are:
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| Wesley Davis: Separating Signal from Noise in the Ag Economy | 23 Mar 2026 | 00:33:53 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode, Mark sits down with Wesley Davis, Partner and Chief Agricultural Economist at Meridian Ag Advisors, for a sharp conversation about cutting through the noise in agriculture — and building a business worth building. Wes defines intentionality simply: shut out the distractions and be fully present with the person or problem in front of you. Just be here. Be now. Signal vs. Noise in the Ag Economy Wes has built his career around one skill: separating signal from noise. Three things he's watching closely right now: Farmer P&L at the acre level. Not the headline — what does a specific commodity pencil out to on a specific acre? That's the number that tells the real story. Trade policy — the tail that wags the dog. Major trade flows are rerouting away from China toward Europe and Southeast Asia. The picture isn't great. But it's not dire. Our stuff is moving. Farmer financial health — the whole picture. About 70–80% of farmers have strong balance sheets. There's a stressed pocket — 10–20%, higher in small grains and row crops — and a critical 5% in real trouble. That's a very different story than "all farmers are failing." Know your numbers. That's not optional. Why Wes Started Meridian — and What Entrepreneurship Actually Costs Wes left his previous consultancy not because something went wrong, but because he got clear on what he wanted to build: truly independent economic research in ag. Not tracking every USDA amendment, but answering the real question — what does this actually mean for farmers? The deeper driver? He wanted the freedom of entrepreneurship again. But freedom and uncertainty are a package deal. And the way you get your certainty back isn't by playing it safe — it's through structure. Maker time. Manager time. Knowing the difference and protecting both. That's where Jericho was born, and it's what keeps the wheels on. AI in Ag: Skeptic Turned Advocate Three years ago, Wes thought AI was mostly noise. Today he's a strong advocate. He's seeing real traction in agri-chem and seed research, commodity trading, and sales intelligence. The most underutilized opportunity? Using AI to understand your growers better and show up more prepared to every conversation. His challenge: go to any AI tool, tell it what you do, and ask for five ways it can help you today. You'll find something you hadn't thought of. Head to askjericho.com to see how Jericho is doing exactly that for ag sales teams. What the Chicken Farm Taught Him Two lessons from growing up on a free-range egg operation in West Virginia: You are what you feed yourself. Egg quality tracked directly to what the birds were fed. Same goes for your mind. Lumpy inputs, lumpy outputs. Customer first — but it's still a business. His grandmother's flower shop ran on fierce customer loyalty. But she never forgot that going out on a limb for a customer is an investment, not a free favor. Don't forget why the tree needs to stay standing. Listen if you are:
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| Cynthia Bruno: The Hard Truth About What Kills Startups | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:33:47 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Cynthia Bruno, CEO of Early Ag, to discuss intentional leadership, startup realities, and the critical decisions that determine whether companies grow—or stall out. Cynthia defines intentionality as doing things on purpose and with purpose. For her, intentional leadership and integrity are deeply connected. Leaders of integrity don’t just show up when things are easy—they show up when the unexpected happens and difficult decisions have to be made. The conversation dives into the startup world and one of the most common causes of failure: lack of prioritization. In the early stages, founders often chase too many opportunities at once in an effort to generate traction or revenue. But when companies continually veer off course to chase short-term wins, they drain resources, confuse teams, and lose sight of the original mission. The real challenge for startups is balancing focus today with vision for the future. Founders must identify their immediate ideal customer while also understanding how that customer—and the company’s value—will evolve over time. Cynthia also shares how Early Ag helps startups navigate these challenges by providing fractional executive leadership. Their team helps early-stage companies refine commercial strategy, test market assumptions, and build the partnerships needed to reach meaningful milestones faster. The conversation also touches on a truth many founders experience but rarely discuss: startups are pressure cookers. The stakes are high, the pace is intense, and leaders often carry the weight of the entire organization on their shoulders. That’s why surrounding yourself with the right expertise—and leaders who can challenge your thinking—is essential. The episode closes with a reminder that great companies are not built by one skill set alone. Success happens at the intersection of complementary strengths—visionaries who push the future forward and operators who turn ideas into reality. When those strengths come together, momentum follows. Listen if you are:
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| Rodney Penner: Removing Money From the Equation | 09 Mar 2026 | 00:35:21 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Rodney Penner, CEO of People Purpose, for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about intentional leadership, money, faith, and courage in business. Rodney defines intentionality in simple, practical terms: build accountability into the process. If you want a better marriage, schedule date night. If you want employees to succeed, schedule quarterly reviews from day one. Intentionality isn’t a feeling — it’s a structure. But the conversation quickly moves beyond structure and into conviction. Rodney shares the story of walking away from a $178,000 construction contract — and returning a $60,000 deposit — after a client called him a thief and a liar. Instead of reacting from fear or scarcity, Rodney made a decision rooted in principle: Remove money from the equation. If money wasn’t part of the decision, what would I do? That mindset shifted the power dynamic immediately. The client’s tone changed. The relationship reset. And ultimately, the deal moved forward — this time built on mutual respect. The deeper lesson? Many leaders operate from scarcity. They bend over backward for the wrong customers, tolerate disrespect, and allow fear of loss to dictate their decisions. Rodney challenges leaders to think differently: When you stop making decisions based on fear of losing money, you start making better decisions. The conversation parallels sales and customer strategy, reinforcing a truth many leaders overlook: 80% of revenue often comes from 20–30% of customers. The most stressful clients frequently represent the smallest portion of total business. Clarity around this data gives leaders permission to say no — and redirect energy toward the best customers. Rodney also shares personal insight into why money doesn’t control him. Growing up feeling that money was valued more than people shaped his determination to never make others feel that way. That early pain became a leadership strength — prioritizing impact over income. Today, through People Purpose, Rodney helps entrepreneurs build healthy leadership systems, intentional customer journeys, hiring processes, and organizational clarity. His focus is expanding leaders’ thinking so they can design businesses that serve both their teams and their clients well. The episode closes with reflections on legacy, faith, and starting with the end in mind — drawing inspiration from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey. What will people say about you? What fruit will your life produce? Intentional leadership is not about chasing revenue. It’s about building impact that outlives you. Listen if you are:
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| Rich Reynertson: Circles Over Rows | 02 Mar 2026 | 00:31:01 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark reconnects with one of the first CEOs he ever worked for, Rich Reynertson, President of Cultura Technologies. Rich oversees a portfolio of 14 agricultural software companies that touch nearly every part of the ag supply chain—from grain scale systems to compliance tracking in global fruit and vegetable markets. With more than 500 employees and consistent double-digit growth, the complexity is real. But this conversation isn’t about software. It’s about intentional leadership. Rich defines intentionality through mission clarity: deploy capital at strong returns while improving the agricultural supply chain. Everything filters through those two commitments. During COVID, he embraced a powerful leadership insight: you can’t give employees certainty—but you can give them clarity. He challenges leaders to help their teams focus on three things:
As Cultura expanded through acquisitions, Rich faced a common growth challenge: strong independent companies that lacked a shared identity. Instead of forcing alignment through top-down mandates, he adopted a different model. “Circles are better than rows.” Rows create spectators. Circles create ownership. By forming intentional circles—small groups committed to shared outcomes—Cultura fostered collaboration across businesses that once operated independently. These circles duplicate each year, growing culture organically rather than imposing it from above. The conversation also dives into the friction of mergers and acquisitions. Integration always creates resistance—on both sides. Employees worry about job security. Acquirers sometimes underestimate the emotional impact on their own teams. Rich reminds leaders that friction isn’t failure—it’s part of the process. Beyond business growth, Rich shares two books that shaped his leadership journey: Corporate Life Cycles by Ichak Adizes — a framework comparing business growth stages to human development, helping leaders anticipate natural organizational transitions. Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks — a reflection on career transitions, long-term happiness, and preparing for the next season of contribution beyond traditional career milestones. The episode closes with a powerful reminder: leadership isn’t about holding onto people. It’s about helping them grow—even if that growth eventually leads them elsewhere. If you can help people know who they are, understand their role, and become a positive force in their community—you’ve done your job. Listen if you are:
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| Corey Rosenbusch: Fertilizer, Food Security, and the Fight Behind the Headlines | 23 Feb 2026 | 00:36:45 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Corey Rosenbusch, CEO of The Fertilizer Institute, to unpack what’s really happening in Washington — and why it directly impacts growers, retailers, and agribusiness leaders across the country. Corey shares how fertilizer has been elevated to a global stage over the past year. From tariffs on Canadian potash to sanctions on Belarus and global urea disruptions, fertilizer now sits at the center of food security, national security, and geopolitical negotiations. One key reminder: fertilizer is a global commodity. Prices are driven by worldwide supply and demand — not local preference. When China limits phosphate exports or global supply tightens, U.S. growers feel it immediately. Corey also gives a behind-the-scenes look at what trade associations actually do. From securing critical tariff exemptions during planting season to preventing bio-stimulants from being regulated like pesticides, the work happening in D.C. often determines whether products move efficiently — or get buried in red tape. Another major focus is nutrient stewardship. The 4R framework — right source, right rate, right time, right place — becomes even more critical in tight-margin seasons. Efficiency isn’t optional; it’s essential. Beyond policy, Corey talks about leadership. When he stepped into TFI six years ago, he asked his team to define their culture — and got 25 different answers. That sparked a deliberate effort to define core values, behaviors, and weekly culture reinforcement. For Corey, intentional leadership starts with clarity. This episode is a reminder that what feels like “noise” in Washington often has very real implications at the farm gate. Listen if you are:
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| Ed Howie: Why Retention, Repetition, and Joy Drive Real Growth | 16 Feb 2026 | 00:43:34 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Ed Howie, a highly sought-after retention and branding expert whose work has helped generate more than $350 million in incremental revenue for some of the most recognizable brands in the world. This is not a typical agribusiness conversation — and that’s exactly why it matters right now. Ed brings decades of experience working with brands like Chick-fil-A, United Airlines, 7-Eleven, Kroger, and H-E-B, but the heart of this discussion isn’t about big brands. It’s about helping leaders understand how clarity, alignment, and intentional repetition create sales velocity, peace of mind, and long-term profitability. Ed defines intentionality as doing all you can with what you have today — not what you wish you had, not what you used to have. That mindset shift alone reframes leadership from chasing the next thing to optimizing what already exists. A major theme throughout the episode is incremental revenue. Instead of constantly pursuing new customers, Ed challenges leaders to look in their “kitchen cupboard.” What products, services, or solutions already exist that current customers aren’t buying simply because they don’t know about them, forgot about them, or were never intentionally guided toward them? The conversation dives deep into why leaders and teams get distracted by novelty. Internal teams get bored with messaging long before customers do, leading organizations to constantly change their story instead of reinforcing it. Great brands don’t win by being clever — they win by being consistent. Ed also introduces one of the most practical leadership frameworks in the episode: the words you use and the behaviors you choose. Culture isn’t a mission statement or a billboard. Culture is what your people say and do when it matters most. If leaders aren’t clear about the exact words to use — and just as importantly, the words not to use — confusion sets in, customers hesitate, and momentum slows. Using powerful examples from Chick-fil-A, Ed explains how scripting language isn’t about removing authenticity. It’s about creating alignment, confidence, and a consistent experience that customers can trust. Confused customers don’t buy. Clear customers do. Mark connects this directly to leadership inside organizations — from onboarding experiences to sales conversations to client retention. When teams lack clarity, they hesitate. When leaders provide clarity, alignment follows. And when clarity and alignment come together, velocity is the natural outcome. The episode closes with a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t just about ROI — return on investment. It’s about return on impact. When leaders reduce confusion, remove distraction, and focus on what truly matters, the byproduct isn’t just growth. It’s peace of mind. And peace of mind creates joy. This conversation is a masterclass in intentional leadership, retention, and sustainable growth — especially in seasons where margins are tight and distractions are high. Listen if you are:
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| Landon Bunderson: The Power of Repetition in Leadership | 09 Feb 2026 | 00:34:16 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Landon Bunderson, Chief Science Officer at Nano Yield, for a thoughtful conversation about intentional leadership, organizational clarity, and how innovation actually works inside a growing agribusiness. Landon leads both science and marketing at Nano Yield—a combination that forces constant clarity. His definition of intentionality is simple but demanding: say fewer things, repeat them often, and never lose sight of why the company exists. At Nano Yield, everything ladders up to one goal—making the sales team’s job easier by ensuring customers clearly understand the value of the people and the products. One of the central themes of the episode is the power of repetition in leadership. Landon explains that effective leaders don’t constantly reinvent their message. Instead, they identify the few things that matter most and put them on repeat. Just like a political stump speech, clarity is built through consistency—not novelty. Leaders don’t need more ideas; they need sharper focus. The conversation also explores what Nano Yield actually does and why “nanotechnology” doesn’t need to be scary. Landon breaks down nano-scale delivery in simple terms, explaining how their technology improves the efficiency of fertilizers and crop inputs by helping nutrients reach plant cells more effectively. The result is better performance, less waste, and improved outcomes for growers. From there, the discussion shifts to culture and growth. Having been with Nano Yield for over a decade, Landon shares how culture has evolved as the company has scaled. He describes culture through a family analogy—clear expectations, consistent communication, defined boundaries, and increasing autonomy over time. When people know what’s expected and feel trusted, they thrive. Mark and Landon dive into the realities of hiring and growth, including one of the hardest leadership challenges: realizing when someone is in the wrong role. Landon frames these moments not as failures, but as necessary course corrections—helping people move on to roles where they can truly succeed. Another key insight from the episode is the idea that people don’t actually thrive in total freedom—they thrive within clear boundaries. As companies grow, systems and processes become essential not to restrict people, but to support them. Structure creates stability, and stability enables innovation. The episode closes with a discussion on creativity and problem-solving. Landon recommends the book Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert, emphasizing that creativity isn’t about reinventing everything—it’s about approaching challenges with curiosity and courage. That creative muscle, when paired with disciplined execution, becomes a powerful leadership advantage. This conversation is a reminder that intentional leadership isn’t loud or flashy. It’s focused, repeatable, human, and deeply practical. Listen if you are:
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| Dean Harder: How Better Conversations Drive Better Results | 02 Feb 2026 | 00:43:42 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Dean Harder for a powerful conversation about intentionality, purpose, and why most sales conversations fail before they ever begin. Dean’s definition of intentional leadership starts with one word: purpose. Without clearly defined purpose, it’s impossible to lead well, sell well, or even make good decisions. Throughout the episode, Dean challenges listeners to rethink how they define success, how they communicate value, and how they show up in conversations—whether in sales, leadership, or life. One of the central themes of the conversation is the difference between pitching and conversational selling. Dean explains that pitching starts from the inside out—it’s focused on what you do, what you sell, and what you want. Conversational selling flips that model. It starts from the outside in by focusing on what the other person wants, what they care about, and what outcomes they’re trying to achieve. The shift sounds simple, but it’s transformative. Instead of trying to convince, impress, or persuade, the goal becomes understanding. When you understand what someone wants, you earn the right to proceed—and only then does what you offer actually matter. Dean also introduces a powerful framework for influence built on two principles: focus on the other person, and earn the right to proceed. Rather than jumping in with advice or opinions, great leaders and sellers ask permission, make observations, and invite conversation. This approach lowers defenses, builds trust, and creates space for real dialogue. The episode goes deep into mindset and preparation, especially for newer sales professionals who feel stuck or intimidated. Dean emphasizes that confidence doesn’t come from talent—it comes from clarity. When outcomes are clearly defined and expectations are realistic, people are free to grow without comparing themselves to veterans with decades of experience. Mark and Dean also explore accountability, drawing a distinction between monitoring activity and aligning around results. True accountability focuses on outcomes, not micromanaging behavior. When leaders agree on results and review progress consistently, people take ownership—and performance follows. Throughout the conversation, there’s a recurring reminder: improvement doesn’t come from comparison. It comes from progress. Measuring yourself against who you were yesterday, not against someone with 30 years of experience, is how real growth happens. This episode is a masterclass in communication, leadership, and selling with integrity. It’s not about scripts or tactics—it’s about mindset, discipline, and learning how to have better conversations that actually move people forward. Listen if you are:
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| Jay Doan: Legacy, Land & Leadership | 26 Jan 2026 | 00:36:39 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Jay Doan of Black Leg Ranch — a fifth-generation North Dakota ranch that has evolved far beyond cattle into a stacked, regenerative, value-added agribusiness. Jay shares what it really takes to keep a family operation alive across generations, from brutal honesty about debt and communication to the decision to go regenerative long before it was trendy. This isn’t a polished Instagram version of ranch life — it’s the real work of leadership, culture, and stewardship. If you lead a farm, ranch, or family business, this conversation will challenge how you think about legacy, diversification, health, and intentional leadership. Key Takeaways Intentional leadership starts with honest self-conversation Jay defines being intentional as being genuinely honest with yourself about where you are and where you’re going, not just what sounds good on the surface. Without that self-honesty, every big decision eventually cracks under pressure. Multi-generational success is built on communication, not nostalgia Five and six generations working together isn’t romantic — it’s heavy. Jay explains that what keeps Black Leg Ranch intact isn’t just tradition, but the willingness to have open, sometimes uncomfortable conversations across generations. Regenerative agriculture was a survival decision, not a trend The ranch nearly collapsed in the 1980s and 90s. That pressure forced Jay’s father to rethink soil health, grazing, and debt — pushing them toward cover crops, holistic management, and biodiversity long before it became mainstream. Diversity is risk management for the land and the business Black Leg Ranch didn’t stack enterprises because it was fashionable — they did it because monoculture is fragile. Cattle, bison, hunting, agritourism, beer, and meat sales all create resilience when markets, weather, or supply chains break. Your health and the land’s health are inseparable Jay connects regenerative farming directly to human health — pointing out that a society growing sick food produces sick people, and that consumers are beginning to demand something better. Notable Quotes “Being intentional is being genuinely pointed with an end goal in mind — and being honest with yourself about it.” — Jay Doan “There’s a weight that comes with legacy. You don’t want to be the generation that screws it up.” — Jay Doan “We were homesteading before it was cool.” — Mark Jewell “Run your operation like a business first — lifestyle second.” — Jay Doan Action Steps
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| Duane Simpson: Beyond the Headlines In Agribusiness | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:41:19 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Duane Simpson, CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, for a wide-ranging and timely conversation on leadership, policy, and navigating uncertainty in agribusiness. Duane brings a rare perspective — blending decades of experience in government, global agribusiness, and cooperative leadership — to help leaders understand what’s really happening behind the headlines in Washington, how policy decisions impact the farmer balance sheet, and why intentional leadership matters more now than ever. This episode isn’t about politics for politics’ sake. It’s about clarity, resilience, and leading people well in a season of volatility. Key Takeaways Intentional leadership is about designing moments, not just delivering messages Duane defines intentionality as thinking deeply about what people should feel, know, and do after a leadership moment — whether that’s a major announcement, a transition, or a difficult conversation. Leaders who ignore the emotional component leave impact on the table. The farmer balance sheet is under real pressure Across agriculture, farmers are navigating rising costs, tight margins, and uncertainty. Duane explains that NCFC’s work centers on two levers: lowering input costs and expanding markets — both critical to long-term farm viability. Policy details matter more than headlines From tariffs to labor to the updated dietary guidelines, Duane breaks down how seemingly distant policy decisions directly affect domestic demand, production costs, and competitiveness for U.S. farmers. The nuance matters — and leaders need to understand it. Ag labor is one of the most pressing cost challenges Labor availability and affordability continue to strain producers, especially in specialty crops and dairy. Duane explains why existing systems like H-2A are imperfect — and why solutions must balance realism with economic sustainability. Technology won’t replace people — but it will reshape roles AI, automation, and software will elevate average performance faster, reduce friction, and shift how work gets done. The leaders who win will focus on adaptability, resilience, and redeploying people into higher-value roles — not eliminating them. Notable Quotes “Intentionality is thinking about what you want people to come away with — how they feel, what they know, and what they do next.” — Duane Simpson “The volatility and uncertainty are more damaging to the economy than any single tariff.” — Duane Simpson “Technology can’t replace human connection — especially in agriculture.” — Duane Simpson “Intentional leadership matters more now because the noise is louder than it’s ever been.” — Mark Jewell Action Steps
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| Ron Lynch: Risk, Surrender, and Becoming Who You Were Created to Be | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:46:18 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of the Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast, Mark Jewell is joined by Ron Lynch — filmmaker, screenwriter, entrepreneur, and spiritual thinker — for one of the most profound and unconventional conversations the show has hosted to date. Ron brings a rare perspective shaped by decades in Hollywood, direct-response marketing, storytelling, and deep personal surrender. From writing films connected to Steven Spielberg and Kathleen Kennedy, to launching billion-dollar products like OxiClean and GoPro, to stepping away from fame-driven success in favor of purpose-driven impact, Ron’s life embodies the very principles he teaches. Together, Mark and Ron explore a powerful idea: what if your life is a screenplay already written — and your job is to step into it intentionally? They unpack surrender, ego, risk, divine interruption, and how stagnation often signals that we’re resisting the next plot twist God is inviting us into. This episode isn’t about productivity. It’s about becoming. Key TakeawaysIntentionality Begins with SurrenderFor Ron, intention isn’t control — it’s surrender. True intentional living means releasing ego, making space for divine interruption, and trusting that God’s plan is better than our own. When we deviate, we’re corrected — not punished, but lovingly redirected. Your Life Has an Arc — and You Are the Main CharacterEvery great story has a beginning, a transformation, and an ending. Ron challenges listeners to stop drifting through life and start recognizing where they are in their own narrative. Growth requires movement. Stagnation is a sign the story has stalled. If You’re Stuck, You’re Avoiding RiskWhen life feels boring, stagnant, or misaligned, Ron offers a direct truth: you’re not taking enough risk. Change requires stepping into uncertainty. Plot twists only happen when the hero is willing to act. Plot Points Create ProgressJust like a screenplay, life requires intentional plot points — concrete actions that move the story forward. Vision without action keeps people trapped in fantasy. Transformation happens when ideas are turned into steps. Leave White Space for the CallRon emphasizes the importance of margin. When life is over-scheduled, there’s no room for unexpected opportunity. The most meaningful shifts often come through interruptions — conversations, invitations, or moments we couldn’t have planned. You Are Not the Studio HeadOne of the most grounding reminders of the episode: you are not in charge — and you don’t want to be. Leadership, faith, and fulfillment grow when we stop pretending we’re in control and return to childlike trust. Becoming You Is the AssignmentRon reframes life’s purpose simply and powerfully: you are here to become fully who God created you to be. Not someone else. Not a safer version. Not a smaller version. Becoming you is the work. Notable Quotes
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| Amanda De Jong: The Quiet Power Behind Rural America | 05 Jan 2026 | 00:34:57 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of the Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast, Mark Jewell sits down with Amanda De Jong, CEO of the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA) — a nearly 100-year-old organization representing over 2,000 rural land experts across all 50 states. Amanda brings a deeply grounded, refreshing perspective on leadership, one rooted in active listening, stewardship of time, and respect for legacy. From land transitions and farm succession to culture-building inside long-standing institutions, this conversation highlights the often unseen professionals who quietly shape the future of rural America. This episode is not about loud leadership. It’s about intentional leadership — the kind that listens first, honors history, and builds for the next generation. Key Takeaways 1. Intentional Leadership Starts with Listening Amanda defines intentionality as being fully present — listening deeply to boards, staff, members, and stakeholders before rushing to solutions. Especially when stepping into a role held for decades, listening isn’t passive — it’s strategic leadership. 2. Time Is the Most Valuable Resource Leaders Steward If you take someone’s time, you owe them your attention. Amanda challenges leaders to end meetings that lack engagement and to stop multitasking their way through conversations. Presence builds trust. Distraction erodes it. 3. ASFMRA: The Silent Force Behind Land Transition Farm managers and rural appraisers often work behind the scenes during some of the most emotional moments families face — death, succession, retirement, and land sale. These professionals ensure land is valued correctly, managed responsibly, and preserved for future generations. 4. Land Is Personal and Business — Both Can Be True Amanda speaks from lived experience as both a farm kid and a farm wife. Legacy isn’t about forcing the next generation into agriculture — it’s about stewarding land wisely so future choices remain possible. 5. Culture Isn’t Fixed — It’s Fed Organizational culture is a living system. Amanda emphasizes that culture must be modeled, nurtured, and protected — not “fixed.” Leaders must remove negativity, reward learning, and allow failure without fear. 6. The Best Leaders Don’t Have All the Answers Strong leaders surround themselves with trusted advisors — a “kitchen cabinet” — and listen to those with expertise. Leadership is not knowing everything; it’s knowing who to listen to. 7. Agriculture Needs a New North Star The old rally cry of “feeding the world” no longer resonates in an age of abundance. Amanda and Mark explore a new calling for agriculture — one rooted in stewardship, distribution, legacy, and thriving rather than survival. Notable Quotes
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| Jace Young: The Financial Wake-Up Call | 29 Dec 2025 | 00:39:23 | |
In this episode of the Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast, Mark sits down with Jace Young, CEO of Legacy Farmer, for one of the most raw and necessary conversations happening in agriculture today. Jace grew up in a multi-generational Kansas cattle operation and later became an ag loan officer — only to watch his own family lose their $10 million farm because of financial disorganization, lack of clarity, and generational assumptions. That loss became the catalyst for Legacy Farmer, a coaching + financial software movement now helping hundreds of farmers each year finally understand their numbers, protect their legacy, and stop generational collapse. Together, Mark and Jace break down the hidden crisis in agriculture: 95% of farmers do not understand their finances well enough to make sound decisions — and the entire system is feeling the consequences. This is a conversation every farmer, banker, agribusiness leader, and rural family needs to hear. Key Takeaways1. Intentionality Means Solving the Foundational Problem FirstFor Jace, intentional leadership is the discipline to stop chasing ideas and address the real issue — the one at the base of every operational, financial, and family breakdown. 2. Farmers Aren’t Failing Because They’re Unsmart — They’re Failing Because No One Taught Them the NumbersMost farmers were never trained to read a balance sheet, interpret cash flow, or calculate true field-level profitability. Even operators worth $50–70 million often lack basic financial structure. This isn’t incompetence — it’s a systemic gap in education no one bothered to fill. 3. The Ag Banking System Is Part of the ProblemFarmers trust loan officers as advisors, yet many of those officers have little ag experience, limited financial depth, and hands tied by policy and liability. The result? Generations making multimillion-dollar decisions with incomplete guidance. 4. $592 Billion in Ag Debt — With No Clear AccountingBy the end of 2025, U.S. farm debt is projected at nearly $600 billion. According to Jace, a significant percentage is mismanaged or untracked — a terrifying reality for an industry representing less than 2% of the population but carrying massive national risk. 5. Men Don’t Fear Failure — They Fear Being ExposedThe greatest barrier to transformation is the fear of seeing the truth. When Legacy Farmer members enter the program, the first battle is internal: confronting decades of decisions they’ve been avoiding. Transformation starts the moment they stop hiding. 6. Financial Clarity Isn’t Just Business — It’s Emotional and GenerationalWhen a man is hiding financial stress, his wife feels it. His kids feel it. His entire home feels it. Jace shares how clarity in finances leads to restored marriages, reduced anxiety, healthier communication, and real leadership at home. 7. This Work Saves LivesThe suicide rate in agriculture is three times higher than the average U.S. industry. When farmers gain clarity, structure, and hope, the ripple effect is massive — from business stability to emotional and relational healing. This isn’t bookkeeping. It’s life-saving work. Notable Quotes
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Ready to Get Control of Your Numbers and Protect Your Legacy? If this conversation hit home and you know it’s time to get clarity, structure, and a proven financial system behind your operation, you can learn more about Jace’s process here: 👉 Explore the Proven Legacy Farmer System: This is the exact framework hundreds of farmers are using to get out of confusion, take back control of their business, and build a legacy that lasts. Listen If You Are:
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| Julie Anna Potts: The Real Story Behind America's Protein Supply | 22 Dec 2025 | 00:49:34 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company In this episode of the Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast, Mark Jewell sits down with Julie Anna Potts, CEO of the Meat Institute — the organization representing over 95% of the red meat industry in the United States. This conversation pulls back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood and most essential sectors in American agriculture. Julie Anna and Mark dive deep into leadership under pressure, listening as a strategic advantage, the emotional reality facing farmers, the political climate in Washington, and the staggering downstream economic impact of the meat industry. From charged conversations on Capitol Hill to the intimate challenges faced by rural families, Julie Anna offers a wide-angle view of what’s happening inside the industry — and what leaders must understand moving forward. Whether you’re a farmer, agribusiness professional, policy follower, or simply someone who enjoys a good steak, this episode brings clarity, context, and truth to the national conversation around meat, health, policy, and the future of American food. Key Takeaways 1. Intentional Leadership Begins With Listening For Julie Anna, intentionality means being fully present — removing emotion from tense conversations, holding space for others, and grounding decisions in shared facts. In an industry full of pressure, listening is the leadership edge. 2. The Meat Industry Touches Millions — More Than You Think The Meat Institute represents operations responsible for 95% of U.S. red meat. The industry’s economic footprint reaches millions of jobs, from packers and processors to equipment suppliers, truckers, retailers, and food service. The value chain is far deeper than most realize. 3. Americans Aren’t Turning Away From Meat — They’re Buying More Despite headlines suggesting otherwise, over 98% of shoppers buy animal protein, according to “The Power of Meat” report. Demand remains exceptionally strong across beef, pork, poultry, and specialty meats. 4. The Industry Is Under Attack — But It’s Not Alone Julie Anna discusses the cultural, political, and activist pressures placed on meat production, drawing parallels to historical attacks on other animal-based industries. But she also highlights the unified, cross-industry collaboration happening in Washington to protect farmers, ranchers, and processors during a time of economic uncertainty. 5. Food Security and Protein Access Are National Priorities Mark and Julie Anna discuss the critical role of food banks, the protein gap in America, and the innovative work of organizations like Hatch for Hunger. Refrigeration alone can determine whether a family receives high-quality protein — an issue far more widespread than most realize. 6. Washington Is Listening — But the Landscape Is Changing From tariffs to “Make America Healthy Again,” to environmental policy, both the current and past presidential administrations have influenced agriculture differently. Julie Anna offers a rare insider’s look at what’s happening inside the Beltway — and what it means for the future of farm country. Notable Quotes
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| Tyler Dickerhoof: The Four Walls of Insecurity | 15 Dec 2025 | 00:53:36 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/ Instagram: @the.momentum.company In this powerful episode of the Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast, Mark Jewell sits down with Tyler Dickerhoof — dairy farmer, leadership coach, and founder of the Impact Driven Leader movement. Tyler brings raw honesty and hard-won insight to the conversation, unpacking how insecurities quietly shape the way we lead, connect, and communicate — often without us even realizing it. Drawing on decades of experience from dairy barns to boardrooms, Tyler reveals how to recognize your emotional blind spots, dismantle walls that limit growth, and lead from a place of wholeness and trust. This conversation goes beyond leadership theory — it’s an unfiltered look at what happens when intensity becomes intimidation, when connection gives way to isolation, and how to reframe it all with empathy, clarity, and courage. Key Takeaways: 1. Intentionality Starts with Purposeful Impact Being intentional isn’t about perfection — it’s about aligning your actions with the impact you want to create. Tyler defines it simply: “Be purposeful in action.” Every decision, word, and relationship either builds trust or breaks it. 2. The Four Walls of Insecurity Tyler introduces a groundbreaking framework that helps leaders identify how fear and insecurity show up in behavior. The four walls are:
Recognizing which “wall” you lean on most is the first step toward breaking through it. 3. Every Problem Is a Relationship Problem As Mark puts it: “Every business issue traces back to a relationship issue.” Tyler expands on this, explaining that our ability to lead others directly mirrors our relationship with ourselves. Leaders who don’t value or forgive themselves struggle to extend grace and connection to others. 4. Empathy Without Boundaries Isn’t Leadership — It’s Exhaustion Tyler warns that empathy, without limits, leads to burnout. True empathy requires clarity and boundaries — modeling what healthy leadership looks like instead of just preaching it. 5. Intentional Leadership in the Age of Overload From late-night texts to “always-on” expectations, Tyler and Mark challenge today’s leaders to rethink boundaries. Intentionality means having systems and communication rhythms that protect both productivity and peace. If your team is burning out, it’s not a workload issue — it’s a leadership clarity issue. 6. Choose to Be an Incubator, Not an Incinerator One of Tyler’s most memorable phrases: “I’d rather be an incubator than an incinerator.” Great leaders don’t burn people out; they develop them. Building people means caring enough to challenge them, coach them, and let them grow — even if that means letting them go. Notable Quotes:
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| Michael Hill: Scaling the Blueberry Empire | 08 Dec 2025 | 00:35:11 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2026 Instagram: @the.momentum.company In this episode of the Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast, Mark Jewell sits down with Michael Hill, CEO of H&A Farms, a vertically integrated operation in Florida that has transformed the blueberry supply chain. Starting as a fourth-generation farmer with a single employee, Michael now leads the business responsible for packing 40% of Florida’s blueberry crop while running thriving agritourism and processing divisions. Michael opens up about the pressures of scaling, surviving pandemic-era uncertainty, finding—and keeping—the right people, and the mindset it takes to grow, diversify, and lead through chaos. His story is a lesson in intentionality, delegation, resilience, and never forgetting the value of your name. Key Takeaways:1. Leadership Starts With Your Word: Intentional leaders don’t just tell others what to do—they hold themselves accountable first. Michael reminds us that the most dangerous promises to break are the ones we make to ourselves. 2. Delegation Is a Skill — Not a Surrender: From running everything himself in year one to scaling to over 2,000 seasonal workers, Michael learned the hard way that growth depends on your ability to trust others, define responsibility, and let go of control. 3. Crisis Reveals Character: During COVID, 98% of Michael’s sales evaporated overnight. Instead of shutting down and causing market collapse, he held the line, protected his growers, and managed an unprecedented backlog until demand returned. 4. Culture Evolves — But It Must Be Protected: Michael’s business outgrew its early “everyone does everything” startup DNA. To evolve, he had to install structures, set standards, and protect culture by removing mediocre players who couldn’t or wouldn’t keep up. 5. Seasonal Ag Labor Is Not for the Faint of Heart: Managing hundreds of local workers and 1,800 H2A harvesters in a seven-week window requires systems, communication, and acceptance that during peak season, work takes over life. Not everyone is built for that kind of leadership—and that’s okay. Notable Quotes:
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| Darin Moon: From Bio-Stimulants to Breakthrough | 01 Dec 2025 | 00:45:21 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2026 Instagram: @the.momentum.company In this episode, Mark Jewell sits down with Darin Moon, founder and CEO of Redox, a family-run ag innovation company with over 30 years of scientific research behind it. What started as one farmer’s frustration with inefficient nutrient delivery has grown into a powerhouse of patented plant science that’s reshaping how agriculture uses inputs like nitrogen. Darin shares how he went from a single patent idea to founding Redox, a business now producing breakthrough biological products — including a nitrogen-optimization technology capable of cutting fertilizer needs by up to 50%. Whether you lead a legacy operation, an ag startup, or a team in transition, this episode is a deep dive into intentional leadership, creative problem-solving, resilient family culture, and a passion for changing agriculture from the inside out. Key Takeaways:1. Intentionality Starts with Authenticity To Darin, leading with intention means being genuine, focused, and rooted in truth. He refuses to pretend or posture — the work is too important for ego. 2. Innovation Happens When You Integrate — Not Just Invent Darin fused insights from both organic and conventional methods to create something new — ways of making nutrient inputs go further by activating specific plant processes. His patented nitrogen-optimization breakthrough isn’t just theoretical; it’s backed by more than a decade of trials and scientific validation. (Learn more about Redox's nitrogen-optimization technology, “RDX-N,” by visiting the Product section of their website.) 3. Resilience + Faith = Legacy It took 394 experiments before Darin landed his first patent — a story of persistence that’s become a core value at Redox. But what makes this story powerful is the way Darin integrated faith, family, and business so none had to be sacrificed to grow the others. 4. Build Businesses that Work for People As a family-operated company, Redox prioritizes values over valuation. Their team operates with deep loyalty and intentional culture — not because it’s fashionable, but because it’s who they are at home and at work. 5. Self-Care Isn’t Optional — It’s a Leadership Requirement Darin’s personal routine includes physical training, a cold plunge, red light therapy, and scripture reflection — all before 8 AM. His advice is simple: "If you’re not showing up whole, what are you really building?" Notable Quotes:
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| Chris Abbott: Be Intentional or Be Left Behind | 24 Nov 2025 | 00:39:59 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2026 Instagram: @the.momentum.company In this episode of the Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast, Mark Jewell interviews Chris Abbott, CEO of Pivot Bio, a company revolutionizing crop nutrition with gene-edited microbes that replace or reduce synthetic nitrogen fertilizer. Chris shares how intentional leadership, customer-first strategy, and bold cultural standards have shaped Pivot Bio’s growth — even in the wildly volatile commodity and fertilizer markets of recent years. Whether you’re leading a small team or scaling a fast-moving startup, this episode brings practical and powerful insight into building companies that win by doing right — for the business, the farmer, and the environment. Key Takeaways:Be Intentional or Be Left Behind For Chris, intentionality begins with time ownership. “It’s my most limited resource,” he says. Whether with family or work, Chris has learned to compartmentalize, plan his days, and preserve sacred blocks for what matters most — including personal health and leadership reflection. Microbes, Markets, and a Mission Pivot Bio engineers nitrogen-fixing microbes, enabling farmers to reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers — and save money in the process. Their products now cost 30% less than synthetic nitrogen and can be shipped to any acre in 48 hours. It’s a disruptive, scalable, and sustainability-positive solution in a world hungry for lower-cost crop nutrition. Culture Is a Strategy — Not a Slogan Chris drives a culture that’s customer-centered and values-driven. His hiring rules?
This rule has reshaped everything from hiring decisions to dropping distribution partners who mistreated the team. Lead Through Cycles, Not Headlines Commodity volatility, geopolitical impacts, investor pressure — Chris has lived it all. But instead of reacting, he narrows focus to 3 pillars:
These guiding principles keep the team aligned, even through turbulent markets. Notable Quotes:
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| Greg Mills: Culture Eats Strategy for Lunch | 17 Nov 2025 | 00:43:51 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2026 Instagram: @the.momentum.company In this episode, Mark Jewell sits down with Greg Mills, a seasoned agribusiness executive and leadership consultant with over 25 years at ADM and a deep background in crop insurance, organizational culture, and global food systems. Greg unpacks what it means to be an intentional leader inside a large corporation — where predictability and scale often come at the expense of innovation and connection. From building culture and clarity across continents to navigating droughts, crises, and corporate resistance to change, Greg shares hard-earned lessons on leading with integrity, trust, and purpose. This conversation is a masterclass on how intentional leaders create alignment, drive engagement, and steward both people and mission in an industry that feeds the world. Key Takeaways:1. Culture Always Comes First Greg reminds us that “culture eats strategy for lunch.” A high-trust culture accelerates execution far faster than rules and processes ever could. When people understand and believe in the mission, alignment replaces micromanagement. 2. Clarity Is the Leader’s Greatest Responsibility Leaders often assume clarity after saying something twice — but true clarity requires consistent communication, repetition, and modeling. “If your team doesn’t understand the mission, it’s not their fault — it’s yours.” 3. Leadership Is Proven When the Lights Aren’t On Real culture is revealed in the quiet moments. Greg’s story about unloading safety equipment for adjusters after hours reminds us that credibility is built in small, unseen actions that show you’re willing to do the work yourself. 4. Strategic Thinking Requires Permission to Pause Many leaders feel guilty for taking time to think strategically, but that stillness is essential. Greg and Mark discuss how proactive strategy — not reactive firefighting — is what sets intentional organizations apart. 5. Build Environments That Encourage Ownership From empowering crop insurance adjusters to create “the perfect claim process” to recognizing local heroes across continents, Greg’s approach centers on engagement. Leaders don’t just manage tasks — they create the conditions for others to lead. Notable Quotes:
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| Ken Pieh: How Great Sales Incentives Build High-Performing Teams | 10 Nov 2025 | 00:47:27 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2026 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode, Mark Jewell sits down with veteran sales strategist Ken Pieh, a man with nearly four decades of experience transforming sales organizations—from Medtronic to fast-growing startups—through better incentive design. Ken shares real-world stories of how one small med-tech company went from $30 million to $200 million in revenue by overhauling its compensation model. He breaks down why most sales incentive plans unintentionally reward the wrong behaviors, and how to fix that before it costs you your best people. This is an episode every CEO, VP of Sales, and sales manager in agribusiness needs to hear. If your incentive plan doesn’t align with your culture, goals, and leadership vision—you’re probably burning money and morale. Key Takeaways:💡 Great sales incentives are leadership tools—not accounting formulas. Most organizations treat comp plans like spreadsheets, but the best leaders use them to drive culture, motivation, and performance. When reps believe they can win, they sell more—and stay longer. 💡 Simplicity wins. Ken compares a well-built comp plan to hiking 100 miles with a 15-pound pack: you only take what’s essential. Sales plans should fit on one page and be easy enough for every rep to explain. 💡 Quotas should stretch—not break—your people. Unrealistic targets crush motivation. A “Hall of Fame” performer will still have a bad quarter now and then. Your comp design should keep them in the game, not push them out. 💡 The wrong contest can destroy culture overnight. When the wrong people walk across the stage, resentment spreads fast. Fixing a comp plan is easy—fixing morale after a bad contest isn’t. 💡 Leadership, not luck, drives retention. When Medtronic expanded from 95 to 750 reps, turnover stayed low because leaders treated people right and designed incentives that made sense. Notable Quotes:“You can’t imagine the transformative change that happens when a company moves from poor sales comp design to one that works.” – Ken Pieh “There’s more emotion tied up in sales contests than there is in money.” – Ken Pieh “Every time I ended up resentful in life, it was because I was the least intentional. Intention is the antidote.” – Mark Jewell “If your incentive plan doesn’t match your message, you’re shooting yourself in the foot.” – Mark Jewell Action Steps:
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| Martha Schlicher: Building Innovation From the Ground Up | 03 Nov 2025 | 00:37:40 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode, Mark Jewell sits down with Martha Schlicher, CEO of Impetus Ag, to talk about intentional leadership, innovation, and the reality of building agricultural startups in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. From her groundbreaking work at Monsanto to leading a new venture tackling crop pest resistance, Martha shares hard-earned wisdom on stewardship, startup grit, and the responsibility of developing sustainable solutions for growers. This is a conversation about courage, clarity, and conviction in leadership—how to make every day and every dollar count when you’re stewarding people, purpose, and innovation that impacts global food systems. Key Takeaways:
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| Emergency Episode: Burnout, Busyness, and the Leadership Wake-Up Call | 27 Oct 2025 | 01:01:10 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2026 Instagram: @the.momentum.company This EMERGENCY EPISODE of The Intentional Ag Leader Podcast is a candid conversation between Mark Jewell, Christine Jewell, and Jon Anderson from The Momentum Company—sparked by a growing crisis across the ag industry: burnout. After witnessing multiple leaders and clients lose relationships, energy, and clarity to the grind, the team takes a bold stand. They unpack why exhaustion and “survival mode” have become the norm, how to recognize when you’ve crossed into burnout, and what leaders can actually do to create healthy, high-performance cultures without sacrificing their families or sanity. 1. Burnout Has Become the New Normal—But It Doesn’t Have to Be. Christine exposes how many leaders have normalized exhaustion and anxiety as “just part of the job.” Like a car that’s always red-lined, most people are running their systems to the brink without realizing the damage being done. 2. Survival Mode Is Not Success. Jon shares how too many people have set their bar at “survive well.” The Momentum standard is higher—leaders must thrive, not just cope. When burnout goes unchecked, it often leads to breakdowns in performance, relationships, and even marriage. 3. Redefine What Success Looks Like. Christine challenges leaders to re-evaluate their metrics. True success isn’t how many meetings or tasks you complete—it’s how much peace, clarity, and meaningful connection you cultivate. Redefining success changes every decision that follows. 4. Alignment Creates Capacity. Burnout doesn’t only come from doing too much—it comes from doing too much of the wrong things. When leaders focus on the 20% of work that moves the mission forward, they gain energy and clarity instead of losing it. 5. Audit and Adjust Constantly. Burnout prevention requires regular self-audits: Is this still working? Are our systems, meetings, and routines producing results—or just motion? Awareness and recalibration are the keys to sustained energy and performance. 6. Leadership Requires Leverage. Mark and Christine share real-world coaching stories showing how delegation and clear systems aren’t luxuries—they’re leadership essentials. Leaders who refuse to train and release others become the bottleneck that drives burnout. 7. The Daily Brief Practice. Mark introduces his “Daily Brief” ritual—a 10-minute morning email he writes to Christine that combines logistics, reflection, and gratitude. It’s become a powerful grounding tool for communication, clarity, and peace at home. Notable Quotes
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Resources Mentioned: 📩 Get the Daily Brief Tutorial — Visit thechristinejewell.com/daily-brief for the free guide | |||
| Sarah Tjoa: Clarity, Care & Urgency in Agribusiness | 20 Oct 2025 | 00:38:00 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this insightful episode, Mark sits down with Sarah Tjoa, Chief Strategist at Noble West, a marketing agency reimagining the future of food. Coming from a non-traditional ag background, Sarah shares how her Los Angeles roots and 15+ years in marketing have shaped her approach to agricultural storytelling, branding, and leadership. Together, Mark and Sarah unpack what it means to lead and market with clarity, care, and urgency — and why intentionality matters just as much in business strategy as it does in communication. Key Takeaways:Clarity is the Catalyst for Impact Sarah’s “slider” model — balancing clarity, care, and urgency — shows how great leadership and marketing both depend on clear thinking and focused direction. Without clarity, even the best ideas lose momentum. Humanity in Leadership and Messaging Being a “deeply flawed, intentional human” is one of Sarah’s key leadership beliefs. Bringing empathy and authenticity into leadership and branding builds connection, trust, and sustainable growth. Bridging the Gaps in Agriculture As an outsider turned advocate for the ag industry, Sarah reveals how misunderstood agriculture is by the average consumer. Her work at Noble West focuses on connecting the value chain — from farmers to consumers — through better storytelling and education. The Power of the ‘Why’ Most companies know what they do and how they do it — but few can clearly articulate why they do it. Sarah explains how defining your “why” becomes your competitive edge and the key to meaningful differentiation in both B2C and B2B markets. Intentional Communication and Repetition Matter Like leaders who repeat their vision until it sticks, brands must communicate consistently. Clarity isn’t a one-time exercise — it’s the result of repetition, alignment, and doing the reps until everyone on the team can clearly articulate the same message. Notable Quotes:
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| Corey Scott: From Milk to Mindset | 13 Oct 2025 | 00:35:26 | |
In this episode, Mark sits down with Corey Scott, CEO of Midwest Dairy, for an insightful look at what it means to lead intentionally in one of agriculture’s most people-focused industries. Corey shares what it takes to manage a team spread across 10 states, steward millions in checkoff dollars, and stay grounded in purpose while navigating the complexities of consumer trends, farmer expectations, and the future of dairy. They dive deep into leadership, stewardship, and the power of clarity—plus a few laughs about protein, heavy cream, and “fancy cheese.”
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| Kevin Heikes: Beyond “Interesting”: How to Solve Real Problems in Agriculture | 06 Oct 2025 | 00:42:11 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast, host Mark Jewell sits down with AgTech entrepreneur and COO/co-founder of Intent, Kevin Heikes. Together, they explore what it really means to lead with intention, both in business and in life. Kevin shares the journey of building Intent into a company that pioneered a new category in agriculture—farmer-led field trials—and how intentionality has been the guiding principle from the start. This conversation dives deep into leadership, process, communication, and the discipline required to move beyond “interesting” ideas toward real solutions that create lasting impact. Key TakeawaysThe Power of Intention in Leadership Kevin emphasizes that life will either direct you, or you will direct it. He explains how being intentional means actively creating direction—through calendars, forward-planning, and aligning daily tasks with long-term impact. Building Intent: From Idea to Innovation Intent was founded to flip the AgTech model on its head—focusing first on solving real farmer problems instead of chasing “interesting” ideas. Kevin unpacks how this approach led to the creation of a new category in large-scale farmer trials. From Interesting to Indispensable Kevin warns against the trap of “interesting.” Ideas or products that are merely interesting rarely get adopted. To succeed, solutions must solve real problems and deliver measurable results. The Role of Process and Communication Running thousands of trials requires not just technology but relentless communication and process discipline. Kevin explains how Intent built systems to ensure trials are completed and results are meaningful for both farmers and companies. Independent Feedback Matters Farmers often hesitate to give manufacturers direct feedback, but they’re more candid with third-party partners like Intent. This independence builds trust, provides true insights, and helps both sides collaborate for better outcomes. Leadership Lessons Kevin shares the three questions he uses to gauge career satisfaction:
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| Sarah Betzold: The Power of “Owning It” in Leadership | 29 Sep 2025 | 00:34:28 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast, Mark reconnects with longtime friend and industry leader Sarah Betzold, Midwest Region Director for BASF. From dairy farm beginnings and FFA leadership to navigating corporate transitions and leading high-performing teams, Sarah shares powerful lessons on ownership, adaptability, and leading through change. This conversation highlights the messy realities of leadership, the role of vulnerability, and the importance of “owning it” at every level. Key Takeaways Leadership Means Ownership Sarah emphasizes that intentional leadership begins with “owning it.” Whether you’re an admin, sales rep, or regional director, stepping fully into your role creates culture and alignment across the team. FFA as a Foundation Her journey—from shy farm girl to state FFA officer—illustrates how leadership opportunities and encouragement early in life shape confidence, resilience, and career direction. Navigating Change with Vision Sarah recalls leading a team through the launch of Bravant amid corporate transitions and COVID—proving that clear vision, communication, and reducing hurdles for your team are key in uncertain times. Vulnerability Builds Trust Humility and “humble confidence” help leaders connect authentically, celebrate wins, and foster collective accountability, even with large teams. Begin with the End in Mind Facing challenges? Sarah advises focusing on the ultimate outcome and stepping into change as though you’ve already won, shifting perspective and energy. Notable Quotes
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| Paul Pittman: From Wall Street to Farmland | 22 Sep 2025 | 00:48:15 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode, Mark Jewell sits down with Paul Pittman, Executive Chairman of Farmland Partners, to explore what it means to lead intentionally in business and agriculture. From his journey growing up in a farm family to building the largest publicly traded farmland REIT, Paul shares powerful lessons on seizing opportunities, balancing vision with habits, and keeping perspective on agriculture’s role in solving global challenges. Key Takeaways
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| Clarity Over Compliance: How Leaders Create Buy-In That Lasts | 15 Sep 2025 | 00:32:47 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of the Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast, Mark Jewell and the Momentum Company team dive into one of the biggest challenges facing leaders today: creating true buy-in around new systems, processes, and performance expectations. Joined by client Dustin (sales manager at a cooperative), certified coaches Melisa and Denise, and the Momentum leadership team, this conversation unpacks how to align teams, foster accountability, and drive adoption of new technologies. The discussion moves from performance management into the heart of culture change—how clarity, communication, and intentional leadership can transform resistance into ownership. Key Takeaways
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| Dr. Trey Cutts: Clarity, Culture, and Change | 08 Sep 2025 | 00:42:05 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast, host Mark Jewell sits down with Dr. Trey Cutts, VP of Commercial Ag Science at Tidal Grow Agroscience. Together, they explore what it truly means to be intentional in agriculture—balancing long-term vision with the day-to-day realities of research, innovation, and leadership. Trey shares candid insights about leading through ambiguity, building team culture, and redefining agriculture’s “North Star” beyond simply producing more. Key Takeaways
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| Brian Sanford: Intentional Leadership in Dairy Tech | 01 Sep 2025 | 00:45:29 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of the Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast, Mark Jewell sits down with Brian Sanford, National Sales Manager at smaXtec, to explore what it means to lead with intentionality in the dairy and ag tech industries. From building high-performing sales teams to balancing family life with professional growth, Brian shares insights on staying focused on “dollar productive activities” while cultivating a thriving culture and personal connections. Key Takeaways
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| Dr. Andy Noon: Succession Planning in Agribusiness | 25 Aug 2025 | 00:37:57 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode of the Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast, host Mark Jewell sits down with Dr. Andy Noon of Decatur Street Consulting to tackle one of the most pressing challenges in agriculture today: succession planning. With waves of retirements looming across the ag industry, the conversation dives into strategies for preparing future leaders, building self-awareness, and cultivating trust-driven performance. Andy brings his expertise in industrial psychology to unpack how organizations can intentionally prepare for the future while creating healthier, more effective leadership cultures. Key Takeaways
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| Jon Brabec: Leadership Shift That Makes Change Stick | 18 Aug 2025 | 00:25:24 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode, I sit down with my longtime friend and client, Jon Brabec, from Frontier Cooperative in Nebraska. Jon has spent over two decades leading change, building strong teams, and shaping culture in ag retail—and he’s got the battle scars and wisdom to prove it. We talk about what it really means to be intentional as a leader, how to create buy-in instead of resistance, and why investing upfront in your people pays off in execution later. Key Takeaways Lead Change by Building the Roadmap Early Jon shares his “Orlando analogy” for change management—give people the destination early, build the plan together, and let them take ownership so execution happens faster and better. Culture Starts with Clarity People don’t need perfect decisions from their leaders, but they do need to see where you’re headed. Clear direction reduces uncertainty, improves retention, and strengthens trust. Reflect Before You React When turnover spiked, Jon didn’t blame “the younger generation”—he dug into the data, surveyed his team, and even called former employees to understand what needed to change. The Power of Mentorship & Executive Peer Groups Jon leans on a trusted network of peers who aren’t afraid to give him the hard truth. That outside perspective helps him solve problems, refine strategies, and stay accountable. A Deep Why for Agriculture Jon’s driving mission is to see family farms thrive for generations. That vision fuels his leadership, even on the hardest days. Notable Quotes “People don’t always remember what you say—they remember how you made them feel.” – Jon Brabec “If you don’t create the space to work on it, it’s easy to just slough it off and blame a generation. I’m not buying that crap.” – Jon Brabec “Clear direction doesn’t require perfect decisions—it requires leaders who are willing to decide.” – Jon Brabec “You’re not in the role because you have it all figured out. You’re in the role because you can figure it out—and communicate the game plan to your people.” – Mark Jewell Action Steps Give your team the end goal early—then co-create the path to get there. Build thinking time into your calendar for reflection and strategy. Seek honest feedback, even if it’s uncomfortable. Join or create a peer group that will hold you accountable and challenge your thinking. Listen If You Are: An ag leader navigating change in your organization A manager looking to improve retention and culture Someone seeking practical tools for leading with intention A believer in the long-term success of family farms | |||
| Leadership Lessons for Building Legendary Culture | 14 Aug 2025 | 00:19:00 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company Culture isn't what you say - it's what you DO every day. Most leaders build fake cultures that drive away top talent. You've tried team building events, mission statements, and motivational posters. Yet your best people keep leaving, communication breaks down, and that "one person" drags everyone down. The truth? Most company cultures are performative theater that fools no one. Leaders who build thriving cultures understand that culture starts with inclusion, requires daily leadership modeling, and demands tough decisions about who stays and who goes. WHAT HIGH-PERFORMING LEADERS DO DIFFERENTLY Stop These Culture Mistakes: ● Hiring for skills alone instead of cultural fit ● Talking about culture without defining it clearly ● Tolerating negative team members who poison the environment ● Leading from the corner office instead of the frontlines ● Creating policies without employee input or feedback Start These Culture-Building Behaviors: ● Include your team in defining what culture looks like ● Model the exact behaviors you want to see daily ● Address culture problems immediately when they arise ● Promote from within to maintain cultural continuity ● Give employees a voice and respond to their feedback within 30 days TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Episode Opening and Culture Focus Introduction 2:23 - What Does Intentional Culture Look Like? 2:50 - Culture Must Include Everybody or It Fails 3:10 - Define Culture Before You Can Build It 3:39 - Get Team Input to Create Buy-In 4:05 - Addressing Lack of Buy-In Head-On 4:44 - Finding Your Biggest Leadership Wins 5:10 - The Power of Team Accomplishments 5:37 - Magnifying Success Through Others 6:04 - Thriving Leader Program Introduction 7:38 - Hiring for Culture Over Skills 8:06 - The Resume vs Culture Fit Problem 8:26 - Promoting from Within Strategy 8:54 - High Expectations Drive Performance 9:46 - Navigating Multiple Cultures in Acquisitions 10:23 - Culture is What You DO Daily 10:39 - The 90/10 Rule: Your Weakest Link Defines Culture 11:12 - Moving People to Spread Culture 12:26 - Creating Safe Work Environments 13:12 - God, Family, Friends, Work Priority Order 14:07 - Polarity Creates Natural Selection 14:55 - High Retention Through Clear Values 15:33 - Annual Employee Feedback Tours 16:13 - 30-Day Response Commitment 17:18 - Leading from the Ground, Not the Corner Office FOR: ✓ Business owners struggling with employee retention ✓ Leaders inheriting teams with toxic culture problems ✓ Managers dealing with resistant team members ✓ Executives planning company acquisitions or mergers ✓ Entrepreneurs building their first leadership teams DECISION POINT: Your culture is defined by your weakest link - fix it or lose your best people. This Week's Challenge: Identify one person or policy that contradicts your stated culture and create a plan to address it within 30 days. If you're ready to stop losing top talent to culture problems and want to build a team that actually wants to work together, email mark@themomentumcompany.com to learn about the Thriving Leader Program. 👥 Share with leaders struggling with team culture! 💡 Comment below: What's the biggest culture challenge you're facing right now? ⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This content is for educational and leadership development purposes. The Thriving Leader Program and leadership coaching mentioned are designed for business leaders and managers. Results may vary based on implementation, team dynamics, and organizational commitment. | |||
| Tracy Linbo: From Weeds to Wisdom | 11 Aug 2025 | 00:49:10 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode, I sit down with my friend and industry powerhouse, Tracy Linbo, Chief Commercial Officer at AgVend. We dive deep into what it really means to lead with intention—not just in your professional life, but at home, too. Tracy shares her incredible journey through the ag value chain, from pulling weeds on a hobby farm in Minnesota to leading commercial strategy for one of agtech’s fastest-growing platforms. This is a must-listen for leaders navigating change, managing adoption of new tech, and looking to build stronger team cultures that actually stick. 💡 Key Takeaways: Intentionality is More Than a Buzzword Tracy explains that being intentional means walking the talk—owning your actions and correcting course when needed. Whether you're leading a team or leading at home, intention requires follow-through. Block the Time, or Lose the Time Tracy and I both agree: if it's not on your calendar, it’s not real. She shares how simple blocks like “catch-up” or “lunch” help her show up with more focus and less burnout. Hope Is Not a Strategy Whether it's culture, performance, or tech adoption, Tracy reminds us that good outcomes come from clear expectations, follow-through, and accountability—not wishful thinking. Tech Doesn’t Replace Trust AgVend’s approach to change management? Help people win. Show them the value. Provide accountability. And never underestimate the power of one positive experience with a new tool. Mentorship Is the Win For Tracy, it’s not the big product launches or career titles that stand out most—it’s when people reach out and say, “Will you mentor me?” That’s legacy work. 🔊 Notable Quotes: “Intentionality isn’t just how you start—it’s how you follow through.” – Tracy Linbo “Show me your calendar, and I’ll show you your priorities.” – Mark Jewell “Hope is not a strategy. If you don’t design your culture, one will still form—it just won’t be the one you want.” – Tracy Linbo “If we put more value into the industry than we ask from it, we never go hungry.” – Mark Jewell “People don’t hate structure—they hate feeling stuck. Give them a framework and watch them thrive.” – Mark Jewell ✅ Action Steps: Audit your calendar: Are your values reflected in how you spend your time? Have the tough conversations: Don’t let one toxic behavior unravel the culture you’ve built. Lean into tech with intention: Set a clear AI or digital strategy and onboard your team with clarity and support. Invest in mentorship: Whether you're mentoring or being mentored, make the time. Redefine accountability: Clarity plus consistency builds trust and momentum. 🎧 Listen If You Are: A leader navigating rapid change or tech adoption Someone managing culture while scaling a team Curious how to blend structure and flexibility in your calendar Wanting to stay relevant in a fast-changing industry Looking for real talk on what actually drives leadership effectiveness | |||
| The 5 Biggest Limiters of Your Growth Potential + How to Overcome Them | 07 Aug 2025 | 00:34:08 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company 95% of what you do runs on autopilot - and it's killing your growth potential. Here's how to break the cycle and unlock exponential results. Most leaders think they need more strategies, but they're stuck because their operating systems are outdated. Executive coach Christine Jewel reveals the 5 hidden growth limiters that keep high performers trapped in familiar comfort zones - and the exact framework to overcome each one. WHAT HIGH PERFORMERS DO DIFFERENTLY Stop These Growth-Killing Mistakes: ● Running the same habits expecting different results (your processes are your ceiling) ● Operating with outdated belief systems that trigger stress responses in your body ● Staying in comfortable circles where you're always the smartest person ● Working in environments that drain your energy instead of inspiring breakthrough thinking ● Clinging to familiar strategies because they feel secure (the illusion of security trap) Start These Exponential Growth Behaviors: ● Stack compound habits like investments - small daily improvements create 180-degree changes in 6 months ● Upgrade your mental operating systems by reading materials that challenge your current thinking ● Intentionally place yourself in rooms where conversations stretch your mindset ● Design multiple environments - one for execution, another for creative breakthrough thinking ● Embrace the surfer mindset - catch the wave at the right time, ride it fully, then prepare for the next one TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Episode Opening: Why Most Growth Strategies Fail 1:10 - Meet Christine Jewel: 25 Years of High Performance Coaching 2:17 - The Student Mindset: Why "I Already Know This" Kills Growth 3:53 - Growth Limiter #1: Your Habits Are Your Processes (Compound Effect) 7:04 - Growth Limiter #2: Outdated Belief Systems (Your Operating System) 12:06 - Growth Limiter #3: Wrong People in Your Circle (Room Dynamics) 14:25 - Thriving Leader Program Spotlight 16:42 - Growth Limiter #4: Environment Design for Peak Performance 21:00 - Growth Limiter #5: The Illusion of Security (Comfort Zone Trap) 23:00 - The Surfer Analogy: Catching Waves vs Being Crushed 27:00 - Growth Cycles: Understanding Seasons of Expansion 29:07 - Implementation Recap: Five Systems to Upgrade Today 32:26 - Take Action Challenge: Teach Someone Else FOR: ✓ Business leaders stuck at current performance levels despite having good systems ✓ Executives who are always the smartest person in the room and want to be challenged ✓ High performers feeling like they're working hard but not seeing exponential results ✓ Leaders ready to leave familiar comfort zones for breakthrough growth ✓ Anyone who recognizes their current operating systems need major upgrades DECISION POINT: Your new life requires a new version of you - are you willing to trade familiar comfort for exponential growth? This Week's Challenge: Identify one area where you're not getting the results you want, then upgrade ONE system this week - whether it's a daily habit, your environment, or the circle of people you're engaging with. If you're ready to break through growth plateaus and want to upgrade your leadership operating systems, email mark@themomentumcompany.com to learn about our Thriving Leader Program and executive coaching opportunities. 👥 Share with leaders who are ready to stop surviving and start thriving! 💡 Comment below: Which of the 5 growth limiters resonates most with your current situation? ⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This content is for educational and informational purposes. The Thriving Leader Program and executive coaching services mentioned are designed for leaders committed to personal and professional growth. Results may vary based on individual commitment to implementation and practice. | |||
| Damian Mason: Intentional Evolution & Reimagining Ag’s Future | 04 Aug 2025 | 00:40:10 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this episode, Mark Jewell is joined by agricultural commentator, speaker, and podcast host Damian Mason for a candid and high-energy conversation about the intentional evolution of individuals, businesses, and the ag industry at large. From political comedy to economic commentary, Damian shares how he reinvented himself—and why the ag industry must do the same. Together, they tackle the myths of "feeding the world," challenge commodity mindsets, and explore what it means to lead from a place of health, clarity, and discipline. Key Takeaways:Intentional Reinvention Requires Courage Damian shares how he intentionally shifted from political comedy to agricultural commentary, despite the comfort and success of his past career. Reinvention means letting go of what once worked to make room for what’s next. Ag’s Identity Crisis Needs a New North Star The old narrative of "feeding the world" no longer resonates. Today’s agricultural leaders must rethink their purpose—focusing on sustainability, nutrient density, and stewardship, rather than just production volume. Policy, Incentives & Entrenchment Are Holding Us Back Government subsidies, university research incentives, and industry entrenchment keep ag locked into outdated systems. Progress requires bold leadership and a willingness to challenge the status quo. Consumer Behavior Is Changing—Ag Must Catch Up Consumers are already proving they'll pay more for quality, flavor, and health. Ag must prioritize differentiation and embrace emerging trends like regenerative ag, flavor-focused products, and transparency in sourcing. Leadership Transformation Begins with Personal Health Mark shares how Thriving Leader participants undergo physical and personal transformation—often losing weight, getting healthier, and showing up as better leaders—by simply being placed in a high-performance environment. Notable Quotes:“Being funny is like being tall. You either are or you aren’t.” – Damian Mason “It takes tremendous intention to say: this thing that made me millions of dollars is now just a story.” – Damian Mason “We’re stuck on slogans from 30 years ago. Feeding the world isn’t the point anymore.” – Damian Mason “Intention and discipline walk down the same aisle. One without the other gets you nowhere.” – Mark Jewell “You want to lead transformation? Start by getting people off soda and into a 6am kickboxing workout.” – Mark Jewell Action Steps:
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| Why 67% of Leaders Confuse Managing with Leading (And Kill Team Performance) | 31 Jul 2025 | 00:40:34 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company Most leaders think they're leading when they're actually micromanaging - discover the motivation vs capability matrix that transforms teams. You're stuck in the referee phase, managing every detail while your team remains dependent. This kills motivation, stunts growth, and burns you out. The confusion between managing and leading is costing your business productivity, retention, and results. After coaching thousands of agribusiness leaders, we've identified the exact framework that separates true leaders from overwhelmed managers. Today, you'll learn the motivation-capability matrix, the four stages of leadership development, and when to step in versus step back. WHAT HIGH-PERFORMING LEADERS DO DIFFERENTLY Stop These Leadership Mistakes: ● Managing people to prevent failure instead of developing capability ● Staying stuck in babysitting and refereeing phases with capable employees ● Micromanaging high-motivation, high-capability team members ● Leading when people need clear direction and structure ● Protecting yourself instead of empowering others to grow Start These Leadership Behaviors: ● Use the motivation vs capability matrix to determine your approach ● Manage resources, information, and situations - not people ● Progress employees through babysitting → refereeing → coaching → partnership ● Give clear direction to high-motivation, low-capability team members ● Step into command mode during crisis situations TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Welcome and Topic Introduction 0:47 - Defining Management vs Leadership 3:04 - When is the Right Time to Manage? 5:25 - The Motivation vs Capability Matrix Framework 7:00 - From Managing to Leading: The Evolution 9:16 - Managing Resources vs Managing People 10:13 - Real Story: COVID Leadership Crisis Example 12:15 - The Sailboat Storm: Command vs Autonomy 15:58 - Managing People Not to Fail (The Trap) 17:37 - What Prevents Leaders from Stepping Back 20:37 - Thriving Leader Program Advertisement 21:13 - Generational Differences in Leadership Needs 27:51 - Teaching Critical Thinking vs Following Directions 30:07 - The Electric Fence Lesson: Natural Consequences 32:35 - Redefining Failure and Building Resilience 34:12 - The Four Stages of Leadership Development 37:13 - Setting Expectations for the Leadership Journey 38:48 - Episode Wrap-up and Key Takeaways FOR: ✓ Business owners managing multiple generations of employees ✓ Operations managers stuck micromanaging capable team members ✓ Department heads struggling with when to step in vs step back ✓ Agribusiness leaders dealing with high-turnover teams ✓ Executives wanting to develop autonomous, high-performing teams DECISION POINT: Stop managing people and start managing the systems that develop people. This Week's Challenge: Identify one high-capability team member you're still managing and move them to the coaching phase by Friday. If you're ready to stop micromanaging and want to build a self-leading team, email mark@themomentumcompany.comto learn about the Thriving Leader Program. 👥 Share with a leader who's stuck in the referee phase! 💡 Comment below: What's the biggest challenge you face knowing when to manage vs lead? ⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This content is for educational and leadership development purposes. The Thriving Leader Program and coaching services mentioned are designed for business leaders and managers. Results may vary based on implementation, team dynamics, and organizational culture. | |||
| Lacey Seibert: Clarity, Innovation & the New North Star | 28 Jul 2025 | 00:45:30 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this powerful episode, Mark Jewell sits down with Lacey Seibert, Head of Go To Market at Bushel, to explore the future of leadership in agriculture. With over 16 years of experience in grain, logistics, and ag tech, Lacey shares hard-earned wisdom about integrating faith, purpose, and innovation into the workplace. From redefining leadership beyond hierarchy to bridging the gap between technology and boots-on-the-ground needs, this conversation is a must-listen for agribusiness leaders looking to lead with clarity, courage, and real-world solutions. Key Takeaways:Lead with Purpose, Not Pressure Lacey shares how surrendering her career ambitions to her faith brought unexpected peace and opened new paths for leadership—both at home and in the industry. From Customer to Vision-Caster at Bushel Lacey explains her transition from grain origination to a key strategic role in ag tech, and why creating solutions that actually work for farmers begins with deep industry empathy. Support + Autonomy = Magic Ag organizations struggle to find the sweet spot between micromanaging and empowering. Lacey outlines how leaders can create environments where people take ownership and feel supported. Why the North Star Matters More Than Ever The old “feed the world” mantra is being replaced. Lacey and Mark challenge listeners to define their company’s new mission—and lead teams with clarity around why the work matters now. Innovation Requires Courage and Curiosity From AI-powered efficiencies to mentoring programs, Lacey shares how leaders can challenge the status quo and keep learning—even in traditional ag environments. Notable Quotes:“Being intentional means having clarity about the purpose I’m living for—and checking that purpose daily.” – Lacey Seibert “You don’t need a formal title to lead. You can lead up, lead across, and create trust by showing up differently.” – Lacey Seibert “If your company doesn’t have a clear North Star, your people will struggle to stay passionate. Clarity drives culture.” – Lacey Seibert “We’ve got to stop solving survival problems and start solving abundance problems.” – Mark Jewell “If it’s not on a page, we’re not on the same page.” – Mark Jewell Action Steps:
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| Practical & Tactical Ways to Hold People Accountable | 24 Jul 2025 | 00:24:44 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company Transform your team from reactive firefighting to proactive accountability systems that drive results without micromanaging. Most leaders struggle with holding people accountable because they're using outdated methods that create resentment and resistance. You're stuck in endless meetings, chasing people for updates, and feeling like a babysitter instead of a leader. This reactive approach burns you out while your team underperforms. We've worked with hundreds of agribusiness leaders who've transformed their teams using proven accountability frameworks. Today, we're sharing the exact system that creates a culture where people hold themselves accountable. This frees you to focus on strategy while your team delivers consistent results. Stop These Accountability Mistakes: ● Trying to hold people accountable without clear written expectations ● Having accountability conversations without documented agreements ● Waiting until problems occur to address performance issues ● Making accountability conversations feel like personal attacks ● Relying on reactive management instead of systematic processes Start These High-Performance Behaviors: ● Document clear expectations and get written agreements before starting work ● Establish regular accountability cadences with consistent frameworks ● Create systems where team members hold each other accountable ● Use "we" language that invites people back to agreements vs calling them out ● Build accountability into your core values and company culture FOR: ✓ Agribusiness leaders tired of chasing their team for basic deliverables ✓ CEOs wanting to scale without becoming the bottleneck for every decision ✓ Managers struggling with team members who make excuses instead of delivering results ✓ Directors building high-performance teams that operate with minimal oversight ✓ Business owners ready to create systematic accountability instead of reactive firefighting Either build accountability systems now or stay trapped in the exhausting cycle of micromanaging underperforming teams forever. This Week's Challenge: Document one clear expectation with your team, get their written agreement, and establish a weekly check-in cadence to review progress together. If you're ready to stop micromanaging and want to build a self-accountable team, email mark@themomentumcompany.com to learn about the Thriving Leader Program. 👥 Share with leaders stuck in reactive management cycles! 💡 Comment below: What's your biggest challenge with team accountability? Is it setting clear expectations or having the tough conversations? ⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This content is for educational and informational purposes. The Thriving Leader Program and coaching services mentioned are designed for business leaders and entrepreneurs. Results may vary based on implementation, team dynamics, and organizational commitment. | |||
| Nic McCarthy: From Applicator to CEO: Culture, Integrity & Change | 21 Jul 2025 | 00:40:53 | |
Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-company In this inspiring episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader podcast, Mark Jewell sits down with Nicholas McCarthy, the newly appointed CEO of Central Valley Ag (CVA). With 25 years of experience rising through the ranks—from applicator to the top seat—Nick shares a raw, honest look at leadership, culture, and the role of faith and humility in his journey. This episode is packed with wisdom on creating high-trust organizations, empowering local leadership, navigating talent challenges, and leveraging technology in modern agribusiness. Key Takeaways: Leading with Core Values Nick defines intentional leadership as living true to your values—trust, integrity, honoring your name, and doing what you say you'll do. These values guide both his personal and professional life. Culture Is Local and People-First CVA emphasizes enabling local leaders to make meaningful decisions. With a massive geographic footprint, the company empowers location managers with hiring, operations, and P&L ownership—building trust and adaptability into the culture. Transparent Leadership Drives Loyalty Nick shares how transparency and regular, honest conversations with employees have become a critical differentiator for CVA in talent retention—especially in rural communities. From Failure to Feedback Nick opens up about strategy missteps and how CVA’s culture gave him the confidence to take risks, fail, and grow. He stresses the importance of owning failures and using them to build better systems. Technology as an Accelerator, Not a Replacement Rather than replacing people, Nick sees AI and automation as tools that shift job duties and elevate human potential. Leaders who embrace tech will outperform in tomorrow’s agribusiness landscape. Sharpen Your Axe Nick closes with a powerful reminder that leaders must pause to recharge—whether it's reading scripture, spending time with family, or simply stepping back to gain perspective. “Sharpen your axe” to keep leading with excellence. Notable Quotes: "You enter this world with your name, and you leave with your legacy. That’s what matters." – Nicholas McCarthy "Culture isn’t a poster on the wall—it’s how people show up to work every day." – Mark Jewell "50% of your competition is eliminated by effort alone. Just showing up makes you stand out." – Nicholas McCarthy "Don’t be afraid to fail. But when you do, own it, and use it to build something better." – Nicholas McCarthy "When I go home to eat lunch, I sharpen my axe." – Nicholas McCarthy Action Steps:
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