The Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast

​​Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.comAttend a Thriving Leader event: https://thriving-leader-2026.lovable.app/Instagram: @the.momentum.companyLinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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 ImpactBeing 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 InsecurityTyler introduces a groundbreaking framework that helps leaders identify how fear and insecurity show up in behavior. The four walls are:Intensity: When drive turns into domination.Inactivity: When fear paralyzes decision-making.Insensitivity: When protection becomes detachment.Isolation: When fear of judgment leads to hiding.Recognizing which “wall” you lean on most is the first step toward breaking through it.3. Every Problem Is a Relationship ProblemAs 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 ExhaustionTyler 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 OverloadFrom 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 IncineratorOne 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:“Be purposeful in action. Our actions create our results, and our results reinforce our beliefs.” – Tyler...

​​Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.comAttend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2026Instagram: @the.momentum.companyLinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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:“You die with one thing in this world — your name.” – Michael Hill“If I believe I can bet on myself, is it really a risk?” – Michael Hill“Winners want to be around other winners. The mediocre don’t.” – Michael Hill“You can’t just delegate — you have to put the right people in the right seats.” – Michael Hill“Still being here? That’s the win.” – Michael HillAction Steps:Create your own Delegate-to-Elevate grid and get honest about what needs to go.Assess your team: Who’s a fit for the mission? Who’s just along for the ride?Consider crisis planning: What would you do if 98% of demand stopped overnight?Make one visible choice this week that protects your integrity and leadership reputation.Listen If You Are:Building or scaling an agribusiness from scratchStruggling to delegate or develop leaders around youCurious about blueberries, packing, and agritourism at scaleLeading teams with seasonal or H2A laborLooking for real-world stories of grit, growth, and intentional leadership

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.comAttend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2026Instagram: @the.momentum.companyLinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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 AuthenticityTo 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 InventDarin 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 = LegacyIt 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 PeopleAs 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 RequirementDarin’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:“You can’t be an organic farmer just for the label — you have to be one with a purpose.” – Darin Moon“A plant doesn’t care if the nitrogen is organic or conventional — it cares how well it can use it.” – Darin Moon“The number one product in agriculture is still people.” – Darin Moon“Leadership at home is just as real as leadership at work. And it might be more important.” – Mark Jewell“You don’t get to skip the hard parts and still expect the breakthrough.” – Darin MoonAction Steps:Audit your own leadership for intentionality: are you showing up with clarity and focus — or just moving fast?Check if your company values are real or just words: would your...

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.comAttend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2026Instagram: @the.momentum.companyLinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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 BehindFor 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 MissionPivot 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 SloganChris drives a culture that’s customer-centered and values-driven. His hiring rules?Serve the customer like you’d want your family to see.No assholes. Ever. Even if they’re profitable.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:Pillar 1: Product & innovationPillar 2: Commercial infrastructurePillar 3: Network effect built from customers, partners, investors, and farmersThese guiding principles keep the team aligned, even through turbulent markets.Notable Quotes:“It’s not the farmer’s job to both feed the world and save it. We’ve got to help them.” – Chris Abbott“If you hire world-class people but tolerate poor behavior, you’ve already lost.” – Chris Abbott“Make a decision your family would be proud of. That rule alone takes care of 99% of leadership challenges.” – Chris Abbott“Nothing loses you a good employee faster than watching you tolerate a bad one.” – Mark Jewell“Innovation is worthless unless it’s higher performing and cheaper.” – Chris AbbottAction Steps:Reevaluate your “no-go zones” as a leader. What time, values, or behaviors are non-negotiable?Identify the 3 pillars that drive your business — and communicate them consistently.Schedule intentional pauses each week for strategic clarity — the kind no meeting can offer.Bonus: Pick up...

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.comAttend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2026Instagram: @the.momentum.companyLinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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 FirstGreg 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 ResponsibilityLeaders 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 OnReal 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 PauseMany 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 OwnershipFrom 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:“Culture eats strategy for lunch.” – Greg Mills“Clarity is a leading indicator of success.” – Mark Jewell“The most important job for an intentional leader is to create an environment where everyone understands the mission — and how their work fulfills it.” – Greg Mills“Leaders read, and readers lead.” – Greg Mills“Intentional leadership doesn’t happen 15 minutes before the meeting. It’s thought out, repeated, and lived daily.” – Greg MillsAction Steps:Audit your culture: Is it defined by trust, clarity, and ownership?Develop your own “stump speech” — the consistent message that ties every decision and meeting back to your mission.Make time to think strategically each week; sharpen your saw before leading others to do the same.Choose one way this month to model servant leadership when no one’s watching.Pick up one of Greg’s recommended...

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.comAttend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2026Instagram: @the.momentum.companyLinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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 JewellAction Steps:Audit your incentive plan. Identify where it may be unintentionally rewarding the wrong behaviors.Simplify. If your comp plan takes more than one page to explain, it’s too heavy.Align training with incentives. Make sure your sales development investments have incentive structures to back them up.Revisit quota setting. Are your targets achievable—or demotivating?Bring in outside perspective. Sometimes it takes a fresh set of eyes to spot your fatal flaws.Listen If You Are:A sales leader or CEO struggling to retain top performersA sales manager trying to fix morale or turnoverAn agribusiness leader whose team doesn’t buy into the incentive planA consultant or coach looking for better ways to align behavior and performance

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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:Intentional Leadership Means Stewarding Time and Resources Wisely: Martha defines intentionality as treating every day and every dollar like it matters—because it does. Whether in startups or large corporations, clarity of purpose drives impact and innovation.Innovation Is Born from Necessity: As pests evolve and resistance grows, new agricultural solutions are essential. Impetus Ag is pioneering technology that restores the effectiveness of BT traits, helping growers protect crops sustainably without dependency on “Big Ag.Startup Culture Mirrors the Farm: Martha likens leading a startup to running a farm—no room for ego, wasted time, or bureaucracy. Every team member must contribute and take ownership, from taking out the trash to innovating at the bench.Transparency Builds Trust: Intentional leaders walk a fine line between honesty and stability. Martha shares how leaders can be transparent about challenges without creating panic—fostering an environment of candor, collaboration, and accountability.The Power of Mentorship and Values: From her parents’ lessons on work ethic to guidance from mentors like Rob Fraley, Martha credits much of her success to learning from others and holding firm to moral lines in the sand—values that guide every decision.Notable Quotes:“Every day and every dollar matters. That’s what it means to be intentional.” – Martha Schlicher“If you can’t find a way through the mountain, go around it, over it, or under it—but don’t stop moving.” – Martha Schlicher“Intentional leaders are innovative. We see problems and create solutions that move the whole industry forward.” – Mark Jewell“Draw your line in the sand—your values, your morals—and never cross it. That’s your anchor.” – Martha Schlicher“Transparency isn’t weakness. It’s how we build trust and accelerate growth.” – Martha SchlicherAction Steps:Reflect on where you might be operating on autopilot. How can you treat your time and resources more intentionally this week?Revisit your company culture: Are you fostering ownership, honesty, and innovation across your team?Seek mentorship—learn from leaders who’ve been where you want to go.Explore the mission and technology behind Impetus Ag at ImpetusAg.com.Listen If You Are:A leader or entrepreneur in agriculture or agritechBuilding a startup or small business with limited resourcesSeeking to integrate innovation, stewardship, and integrity in leadershipCurious about the future of sustainable ag and biotech innovation

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.comAttend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2026Instagram: @the.momentum.companyLinkedIn: /momentum-companyThis 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.Key Takeaways1. 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“Most people don’t even realize they’re burnt out because they’ve normalized the pressure cooker.” — Christine Jewell“We’ve mistaken surviving for thriving. That’s not the standard.” — Jon Anderson“Just because it’s hard doesn’t mean you quit—it means you’ve been given an opportunity to grow.” — Mark Jewell“We don’t have a time management problem; we have an energy management and clarity problem.” — Christine Jewell“When you define success by how...

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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 ImpactSarah’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 MessagingBeing 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 AgricultureAs 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 MatterLike 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:“Intentionality is nothing if it’s not having impact or getting it done.” – Sarah Tjoa“Leaders can’t clarify enough — clarity is one of our greatest responsibilities.” – Sarah Tjoa“Most brands know what they do, but few know why they do it — and the margins are always in the why.” – Sarah Tjoa“As leaders, we have to be deeply flawed, intentional humans.” – Sarah Tjoa“When you build clarity and repeat it until everyone owns it, that’s when organizations move with purpose.” – Mark JewellAction Steps:Audit your team’s clarity: Does everyone know your company’s why and where you’re headed?Revisit your messaging: Can you describe what you do — and why it matters — in 20 seconds or less?Reflect on your own “slider”: Where do you need to dial up clarity, care, or urgency this week?Read Radical Candor by Kim Scott — Sarah’s top book recommendation for every leader seeking to communicate with both honesty and empathy.Listen If You Are:A leader or marketer navigating change in agriculture or ag techSomeone seeking to clarify your brand’s message or company missionA professional balancing creativity, leadership, and communicationPassionate about bridging the gap between farm, food, and consumer

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.”Key TakeawaysIntentional Leadership Starts with Showing UpCorey defines being intentional as showing up every day, even when it’s not easy or convenient. How you show up impacts the people watching you—whether family, employees, or your broader community.Purpose is the North StarIn a complex industry like dairy, where every producer has unique values and opinions, Corey keeps her team focused on one question: Are we reaching the consumer effectively? That clarity cuts through the noise and keeps her organization aligned.Stewardship Over SalesUnlike private business models, checkoff organizations are funded through automatic assessments. Corey’s focus isn’t profit—it’s impact: being a wise steward of every dollar to build trust, grow demand, and elevate the farmer’s voice.Building Culture in a Virtual WorldWith two-thirds of Midwest Dairy’s 55-person team working remotely, Corey emphasizes the importance of connection and common language. Through CliftonStrengths, her team speaks a shared language that helps them align around their unique gifts.Empowering Potential—Even When It’s HardOne of Corey’s biggest challenges? Seeing untapped potential in people who don’t see it in themselves. But the greatest joy comes when she helps someone discover that potential and grow beyond what they thought possible—even beyond her organization.Modern Consumers Still Love Dairy—Just DifferentlyFrom high-protein cereals to heavy-cream coffee, dairy is thriving in new forms. The “Got Milk?” era has evolved into a demand for health, wellness, and clean protein—something Corey sees as a major opportunity for the industry.Notable Quotes“How you show up matters. People are always watching—so make a choice in how you show up every day.” – Corey R. Scott“Our purpose is clear: to reach the consumer effectively and move more product for our farmers.” – Corey R. Scott“It’s not about cost of goods sold—it’s about stewardship. How can we be the best steward of every dollar we’re entrusted with?” – Corey R. Scott“When you have a clear North Star, you know what you’re about—and maybe more importantly, what you’re not.” – Mark Jewell“More is caught than taught. Culture spreads through example, not policy.” – Mark JewellAction StepsReflect on your own North Star—what guides your leadership decisions when values or opinions conflict?Ask your team: “How can we set you up to be your best self?” Then actually do it.Revisit your internal language and frameworks—do your people share a common language around strengths, growth, and purpose?Explore Survival of the Savvy (Corey’s top leadership book recommendation) and consider adding it to your leadership reading list.Listen If You Are:A leader managing teams across distance and...

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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 LeadershipKevin 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 InnovationIntent 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 IndispensableKevin 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 CommunicationRunning 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 MattersFarmers 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:Am I learning and growing?Am I having fun?Am I leaving the organization better than I found it?Notable Quotes“You can either direct life, or life will direct you.” – Kevin Heikes“All the times in life I’ve become most resentful are when I was least intentional.” – Mark Jewell“I can’t sell interesting. Interesting doesn’t write a check.” – Kevin Heikes“Leave every place better than you found it—whether it’s family, work, or community.” – Kevin Heikes“God has never created anything that doesn’t multiply. As leaders, we’re called to steward people the same way.” – Mark JewellAction Steps for ListenersReflect on where you are allowing life to “direct you” instead of being intentional about your choices.Audit your calendar: are your daily tasks aligned with your long-term goals and impact?For sales leaders: train your teams to go beyond pitching and practice deep listening.Ask yourself Kevin’s three career questions regularly to evaluate alignment and growth.Seek feedback—honest, sometimes uncomfortable conversations are where the real breakthroughs happen.Listen If You Are:An agribusiness leader striving to be more intentional in your work and life.An entrepreneur...

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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 TakeawaysLeadership 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 FoundationHer 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 VisionSarah 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 TrustHumility and “humble confidence” help leaders connect authentically, celebrate wins, and foster collective accountability, even with large teams.Begin with the End in MindFacing challenges? Sarah advises focusing on the ultimate outcome and stepping into change as though you’ve already won, shifting perspective and energy.Notable Quotes“Being intentional means own it. Leaders own it—and everyone on the team owns it too.” – Sarah Betzold“It’s your job to just help it be a little better for everyone on your team.” – Sarah Betzold“I would just tell myself not to be so damn arrogant.” – Mark Jewell“Vulnerability is really just doing your job—listening, supporting, and guiding your people.” – Sarah Betzold“Farmers are still going to farm. Livestock still have to eat. Every year brings change, and every day is a chance to drive up the driveway with something better.” – Mark Jewell & Sarah BetzoldAction StepsReflect on how you can “own it” in your current role, regardless of title.Practice active listening with your team—notice what drives them and what frustrates them.When navigating change, begin with the end in mind and communicate a clear vision.Celebrate wins with humility and gratitude, reinforcing that every contribution matters.Listen If You AreA leader navigating change or transition within agribusiness.An FFA alum reflecting on how those lessons shaped your leadership.A professional seeking practical wisdom on building culture, trust, and resilience in your team.Curious about how top industry leaders balance humility, vulnerability, and performance.

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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 TakeawaysHabits Over Long-Term Plans: Success isn’t built on rigid 30-year plans, but on daily habits and the courage to seize opportunities when they arrive.Luck and Humility: Luck plays a major role in career success. Recognizing it fosters humility while reminding us not to discount solid “upper middle-class” achievements.Bridging Two Worlds: Paul combined his Wall Street deal-making expertise with deep agricultural roots to pioneer farmland investing through Farmland Partners.Agriculture’s North Star: Feeding the world remains the industry’s core mission, but the next frontier is improving nutritional quality alongside caloric and protein production.Intentional Leadership: True leadership comes from vision-driven individuals, not committees. Accountability, clarity, and a strong grasp of the other side’s priorities are key to effective deals and relationships.Decision-Making Framework: Balance certainty with long-term goals—avoid chasing perfection, but don’t settle for the easy path that drifts you off course.Work Ethic and Drive: A deep work ethic, instilled early by family, fuels resilience and the ability to take bold steps—even when that means quitting a “great” job to pursue true alignment.Notable Quotes“You don’t set life goals—you set life habits that create the environment for success.” – Paul Pittman“If I need to teach you how to farm, I need a different tenant.” – Paul Pittman“The Sistine Chapel wasn’t painted by a committee. It was painted by a guy.” – Paul Pittman“Being wealthy isn’t about money. It’s about happiness with your life.” – Paul PittmanAction StepsEvaluate your daily habits—are they aligned with the environment you want to create for success?Identify two or three “non-negotiables” in your business and relationships, and respect the same on the other side.Reflect on your career direction—are you drifting off course by taking too many “easy” decisions?Consider how your leadership style encourages accountability, vision, and individual responsibility.Listen If You AreA business or ag leader seeking lessons from someone who bridged Wall Street and farming.Interested in the future of agriculture—feeding the world and improving health.Looking for practical frameworks for negotiation, leadership, and decision-making.Curious about the mindset behind building a company from farmland roots to Wall Street success.

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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 TakeawaysClarity Drives AdoptionNew tools like CRMs or performance reviews only work when leaders paint a crystal-clear picture of the desired future state—and connect it to why it matters.Communication Is Non-NegotiableResistance often comes from misunderstanding. Clear, repeated messaging—supported by real-life examples—helps shift attitudes from suspicion to acceptance.Accountability Creates ConfidenceFrom sales call tracking to fleet management systems, transparent accountability builds trust and empowers employees to take ownership rather than feel micromanaged.Timing and Champions MatterRolling out new processes during high-stress seasons leads to frustration. Identify “champions” inside your team who can lead by example and support peers through change.The Power of Clear GoalsImpossible, future-focused goals drive behaviors more effectively than small, incremental ones. Contrast clarifies what to pursue and what to leave behind.Notable Quotes“Nobody needs more check-the-box tasks. Tools should make people better, not just busier.” – Dustin“Communication and clarity were the best things for us—it’s not about tracking people, it’s about accountability for the fleet.” – Denise“When I tracked my bushels, the CRM became more than a tool—it created friendly competition that drove performance.” – Melisa“A clear goal informs what I do today—and more importantly, what I don’t do today.” – Mark Jewell“Contrast is clarity. Sometimes knowing what we don’t want helps us lock in on what we do.” Action StepsAudit your communication: Are you explaining not just the what, but the why behind new systems?Identify a team champion who can model and support adoption.Choose the right season for rollout—don’t pile change on top of peak workload.Set clear, future-oriented goals that inspire behavior change.Recognize and celebrate wins publicly; handle resistance privately.Listen If You AreA sales manager struggling to get your team to use a CRM or new toolA leader facing pushback on cultural or process changeAn executive seeking to improve accountability without micromanagementAnyone who wants to drive performance by building clarity and buy-in

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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 TakeawaysIntentional Leadership in Ag: Trey emphasizes the paradox of long cycles in agriculture versus the need for agility, and why focusing on the long-term “North Star” provides resilience.Innovation & Efficiency: The future of ag is not just yield, but efficiency, sustainability, and nutrition. Trey explains how Tidal Grow is using biopolymers derived from seafood waste to create sustainable, circular-economy solutions.Leading People vs. Products: Mark and Trey discuss the unpredictability of people compared to crops, and why leaders must be intentional in cultivating culture, expectations, and clarity.Overcoming Challenges: Trey opens up about navigating unclear organizational goals, leading with transparency, and balancing advocacy with empathy.Wins that Matter: Trey’s proudest moments come from seeing his team succeed—and knowing he helped create the environment for them to thrive.Notable Quotes“In agriculture, you can’t just yield your way out of today’s challenges. It’s about efficiency, sustainability, and nutrition.” – Trey Cutts“As leaders, our job is to set the environment. Within that environment, great things can happen.” – Mark Jewell“Don’t let yourself or your team hide behind ‘I’m not an agronomist.’ We’re all here to learn.” – Trey Cutts“Clarity is one of the leading indicators of long-term success. Every team needs it.” – Mark JewellAction Steps for ListenersReflect on your own “North Star” in leadership—are you focused on growth, efficiency, or impact?Challenge yourself and your team to ask clarifying questions in every meeting to build a culture of continuous learning.Explore Crucial Conversations as a tool for navigating conflict productively.Share this episode with a peer or team member who is navigating change or seeking intentionality in leadership.Listen If You AreAn agribusiness professional navigating innovation and changeA leader looking to set clear, long-term direction for your teamInterested in sustainability, soil health, or the future of agricultural inputsPassionate about personal and professional growth in leadership

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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 TakeawaysDollar Productive ActivityBrian highlights how his early sales training around focusing on dollar-productive activities shaped both his professional and personal life. Whether closing sales or spending time with family, being intentional about high-value actions drives long-term results.CRM & Sales Process DisciplineDespite not being a “detail person,” Brian leans into CRM tools to manage opportunities, categorize customers, and keep sales teams accountable. He stresses that if you can keep all your prospects in your head, you’re probably not doing enough activity.Scaling Teams & Building CultureGrowing from 7 to 40 team members in just a few years, Brian explains the importance of cadences—regular meetings, onboarding processes, and tough conversations to ensure cultural fit. Creating a space where passion aligns with purpose is essential for sustained success.Intentional Family TimeFrom playing chess with his son to CrossFit dates with his wife, Brian describes how intentionality extends beyond business into marriage and parenting. Simple, consistent actions—like Mark’s “Daily Brief” practice with his wife—can have an outsized impact on relationships.Overcoming Challenges & WinsLeaving a long-term role in feed and forging into tech was one of Brian’s toughest decisions, but it led to new opportunities and career wins. He shares stories of closing dairies of vastly different sizes and how objections become lessons when leveraged correctly.Books That Shape LeadershipBrian recommends Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara for transforming customer experience and Moneyball by Michael Lewis as a lesson in data-driven strategy and out-of-the-box thinking.Notable Quotes“What are you doing today that’s truly driving toward the results you want?” – Brian Sanford“If you can keep your sales leads in your head, you’re probably not doing enough activity.” – Brian Sanford“Sometimes the best thing you can do for culture is have the tough conversation: is this the right fit for you?” – Brian Sanford“Fear of letting go often costs more in money, time, and energy than the tough decision itself.” – Mark JewellAction StepsEvaluate your daily activities: are they “dollar productive”?Create intentional practices in your personal life (like shared activities or daily check-ins).Review your CRM discipline—are you documenting and leveraging your conversations effectively?Don’t shy away from tough conversations when scaling a team.Consider reading Unreasonable Hospitality and Moneyball to reframe customer experience and strategic leadership.Listen If You AreA sales leader in agriculture or ag techAn entrepreneur growing a high-performing teamA professional balancing leadership with family lifeSomeone looking to refine both...

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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 TakeawaysSuccession Planning as a Business Process - Succession isn’t about replacing a leader at the last minute—it’s about aligning leadership development with the organization’s long-term strategy. Companies must look 3–5 years ahead, define future leadership profiles, and invest early in preparing the right talent.The Role of Industrial Psychology - Industrial psychology brings evidence-based principles into organizational life. From motivation and job satisfaction to retention and leadership effectiveness, applying research-backed practices helps companies make smarter leadership decisions.The Power of Self-Awareness - Self-awareness is the foundation of leadership growth. But Andy emphasizes that awareness alone isn’t enough—it must lead to self-improvement. Leaders should act on feedback, write down growth plans, and commit to change.Stretch Assignments Develop Leaders - To prepare successors, leaders must be placed in roles that test their capabilities. Stretch assignments, paired with feedback and support, accelerate readiness for higher responsibilities.Trust as the Foundation of Feedback - Effective coaching and feedback require trust. When trust is present, feedback enhances performance. Without it, feedback often feels like criticism and can push people away.From Feeling Bad to Conviction - Mark and Andy explore the difference between feeling bad about underperforming versus being convicted to improve. True growth happens when leaders respond with conviction rather than shame.Notable Quotes“Succession planning is a business process. You’re not hiring for today—you’re preparing for the organization’s future strategy.” – Andy Noon“Fear of giving feedback often reveals a lack of trust. When trust is strong, feedback becomes a gift.” – Andy Noon“Self-awareness is step one, but self-improvement is the goal.” – Andy Noon“You’ll know a tree by its fruit. Leadership is measured by what’s left behind when the leader steps away.” – Mark Jewell“If you’re changing because you feel bad, it rarely sticks. True change comes from conviction.” – Christine Jewell (via Mark)Action StepsBegin succession planning conversations at your next executive team meeting—don’t wait until it’s too late.Identify hidden talent within your organization and start developing them with feedback and stretch assignments.Write down 1–2 leadership areas you want to improve, and revisit them regularly.Build trust with your team before giving feedback—focus on understanding their motivations and goals.Establish your own “personal board of directors” who can speak truth into your leadership journey.Listen If You AreA leader in agribusiness facing looming retirements and talent shortagesAn...

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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 TakeawaysLead Change by Building the Roadmap EarlyJon 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 ClarityPeople 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 ReactWhen 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 GroupsJon 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 AgricultureJon’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 JewellAction StepsGive 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 organizationA manager looking to improve retention and cultureSomeone seeking practical tools for leading with intentionA believer in the long-term success of family farms

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-companyCulture 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 DIFFERENTLYStop 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 feedbackStart 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 daysTIMESTAMPS: 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 OfficeFOR: ✓ 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 teamsDECISION 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.

Join our champion program: mark@themomentumcompany.com Attend a Thriving Leader event: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025 Instagram: @the.momentum.company LinkedIn: /momentum-companyIn 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 BuzzwordTracy 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 TimeTracy 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 StrategyWhether 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 TrustAgVend’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 WinFor 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 adoptionSomeone managing culture while scaling a teamCurious how to blend structure and flexibility in your calendarWanting to stay relevant in a fast-changing industryLooking for real talk on what actually drives leadership effectiveness