Cultivating Leaders

In a culture that says, “tough it out”, perhaps the most strength comes from vulnerability and courage. In this episode of the Cultivating Leaders Podcast, John Sachse – cattleman, Army National Guard officer, and AFA alum – explores what it really takes to build a resilient mindset. John shares how military training and returning to the family ranch shaped his approach to leadership, service, and mental toughness.John breaks down:- What it Means to be Resilient: it is about developing a mindset that allows you to bounce back from adversity- Strengthening Mental Resilience: there is power of setting meaningful goals and connecting them to your “why”- Leaning into Vulnerability: challenging the traditional agricultural norm that discourage emotional opennessJohn gets real about the hard stuff and how to push through it. This episode will challenge you to show up differently, embrace discomfort, and lean into growth.Connect with John- Connect on LinkedIn- Follow him on Instagram- Visit his website - HereConnect with AFA- Follow us on LinkedIn- Follow us on Instagram- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on TikTok- Visit our WebsiteAbout The Cultivating Leaders PodcastReal stories. Practical advice. Tangible growth. Join The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, brought to you by Agriculture Future of America, as we explore what it takes to lead in food, agriculture, and beyond. Whether you’re just starting out or leading at the highest level, this podcast is your go-to resource for leadership that matters. Listen now and start cultivating your leadership journey.Don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss another episode!

Level-up your career by investing in the relationships that really matter. David Nothmann — a seasoned strategic growth leader with 25+ years of experience in agriculture, technology, and food innovation—joins the Cultivating Leaders Podcast for a discussion around building relationships. He shares practical insights on how leaders can build trust intentionally, approach networking as a learned skill, and play the long game when it comes to cultivating influence.David dives into: Relationships as an Asset: Real success is built through authentic, long-term relationships Networking How-To’s: It takes an intentional mindset, preparation, and follow up. Building Trust in Professional Relationships: Investing in people early builds the trust needed when stakes are high.Whether you're navigating career growth or leading change, David's mindset of "relationships first" offers a blueprint for a lasting leadership impact.

Have you ever felt like an outsider in the industry you were raised in? In this episode of the Cultivating Leaders Podcast, we welcome Courtenay DeHoff—television host, fifth-generation rancher, and founder of the Fancy Lady Cowgirl movement—for a bold conversation about pursuing a fulfilling career, challenging exclusion in agriculture, and empowering bold ideas.Courtenay shares great advice around:- Encouraging bold change: How exclusion in ag holds the industry back—and what to do about it- Authenticity as a superpower: Identity and individuality fuel impact- Finding your place in ag: Pursuing purpose despite pushbackThis episode will challenge you to show up fully, lead unapologetically, and create space for others to do the same.Connect with Courtenay- Connect on LinkedIn- Follow her on Instagram- Like her on Facebook- Follow her on TikTok- Visit her WebsiteConnect with AFA- Follow us on LinkedIn- Follow us on Instagram- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on TikTok- Visit our WebsiteAbout The Cultivating Leaders PodcastReal stories. Practical advice. Tangible growth. Join The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, brought to you by Agriculture Future of America, as we explore what it takes to lead in food, agriculture, and beyond. Whether you’re just starting out or leading at the highest level, this podcast is your go-to resource for leadership that matters. Listen now and start cultivating your leadership journey.Don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss another episode!

What does it take to build a lasting, meaningful career in agriculture? In this episode, Matt Plitt, President and CEO of Valent USA, shares his insights on leading with intention, creating a strong workplace culture and navigating a rapidly changing industry. From personal growth to sustainable leadership strategies, this conversation is a masterclass in what it means to lead with purpose.Matt dives into:- Creating an Effective Workplace Culture: How he empowers his team- Embracing a Changing Industry: Practicing innovation and an open mindset- The Power of Personal Investment: Leading yourself well to inspire othersMatt drops some great advice for leading through people, purpose and growth to make the most out of your career.Connect with Matt- Connect on LinkedInAbout Valent U.S.A- Visit their Website- Connect on LinkedInConnect with AFA- Follow us on LinkedIn- Follow us on Instagram- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on TikTok- Visit our WebsiteAbout The Cultivating Leaders PodcastReal stories. Practical advice. Tangible growth. Join The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, brought to you by Agriculture Future of America, as we explore what it takes to lead in food, agriculture, and beyond. Whether you’re just starting out or leading at the highest level, this podcast is your go-to resource for leadership that matters. Listen now and start cultivating your leadership journey.Don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss another episode!

Great leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about trust, humility, and impact. In this episode, Scott Stump, CEO of the National FFA Organization, shares his experience on what it means to lead with integrity, empower teams, and stay open to growth. He shares a wealth of knowledge around the future leaders of the agriculture industry and how seasoned professionals can accelerate their potential.Scott shares more on:- The Current State of Ag Education: Where he sees gems and gaps- Trends for the Future of Agriculture: His thoughts on new technologies and innovations- Practicing Humility: The importance of learning from past mistakesWith Scott’s personal experience as a leader and educator, this conversation will challenge you to connect with future agriculture leaders and embrace your unique leadership skills.Connect with Scott- Connect on LinkedInAbout the National FFA Organization- Visit their Website- Connect on LinkedInConnect with AFA- Follow us on LinkedIn- Follow us on Instagram- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on TikTok- Visit our WebsiteAbout The Cultivating Leaders PodcastReal stories. Practical advice. Tangible growth. Join The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, brought to you by Agriculture Future of America, as we explore what it takes to lead in food, agriculture, and beyond. Whether you’re just starting out or leading at the highest level, this podcast is your go-to resource for leadership that matters. Listen now and start cultivating your leadership journey.Don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss another episode!

Want to lead with confidence and build real connections in the agriculture industry? In this episode, Ellen Zimmerman, Director of Industry Relations for the U.S. Grains Council, shares how embracing authenticity and fostering genuine relationships can make you a magnetic leader!In this conversation, Ellen dives into: Authenticity in Leadership: Her journey to owning how she shows up Building Genuine Relationships: Fun tips and tricks to staying connected The Power of Mentors: How a “personal board of directors” can guide your career and lifeWhether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your leadership journey, Ellen’s insights will help you show up as your true self and build lasting connections.Connect with Ellen Connect on LinkedIn Follow her on Instagram Email her at ellenszimmerman@gmail.comAbout the U.S. Grains Council Visit their Website Connect on LinkedInConnect with AFA Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Follow us on TikTok Visit our WebsiteAbout The Cultivating Leaders PodcastReal stories. Practical advice. Tangible growth. Join The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, brought to you by Agriculture Future of America, as we explore what it takes to lead in food, agriculture, and beyond.  Whether you’re just starting out or leading at the highest level, this podcast is your go-to resource for leadership that matters. Listen now and start cultivating your leadership journey.Don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss another episode!

Ebony Webber never saw herself being involved in the agriculture industry. Now, she serves as the CEO of MANRRS (Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences), helping others find their place. Tune in for Ebony’s unconventional route to leadership and the lessons she’s learned along the way.In this episode, Ebony reflects on: Career growth: Ebony took leadership of MANRRS at 22 years old and has created a nationally recognized program Building pathways: She shares unique perspective on opportunities for future talent Attracting the future: Ebony addresses the need to attract more people to agricultureFrom the power of mentorship to the evolving workforce needs in agriculture, Ebony offers insights on how young professionals can develop leadership skills, expand their networks, and embrace career opportunities in the industry.Tune in for a conversation filled with leadership wisdom, career advice, and a deep dive into why agriculture is, at its core, a people business.Connect with Ebony Connect on LinkedInLearn more about Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences Connect on LinkedIn Visit their WebsiteConnect with AFA Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Follow us on TikTok Visit our WebsiteAbout The Cultivating Leaders PodcastReal stories. Practical advice. Tangible growth. Join The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, brought to you by Agriculture Future of America, as we explore what it takes to lead in food, agriculture, and beyond.  Whether you’re just starting out or leading at the highest level, this podcast is your go-to resource for leadership that matters. Listen now and start cultivating your leadership journey.

What does it take to lead yourself well? On this episode of The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, TEDx speaker and financial expert Adam Carroll opens up about his personal journey from financial struggles to building a life of intentionality and resilience. Adam believes that great leadership starts with self-discipline and clarity in your own life.In this conversation, Adam dives into: Self-leadership: Why leading yourself well is key to leading others effectively. Intentional living: How setting goals and creating boundaries can drive personal and professional growth. Financial clarity: Simple ways to build a healthier relationship with money and reduce stress.Adam’s story is a reminder that resilience and strong leadership start with the daily choices we make. Whether you're looking to grow as a leader or gain more control over your life, this episode is packed with practical insights to inspire your journey.Connect with Adam Connect on LinkedIn Follow him on Instagram Visit his WebsiteConnect with AFA Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Like us on Facebook Follow us on TikTok Visit our WebsiteAbout The Cultivating Leaders PodcastReal stories. Practical advice. Tangible growth. Join The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, brought to you by Agriculture Future of America, as we explore what it takes to lead in food, agriculture, and beyond.  Whether you’re just starting out or leading at the highest level, this podcast is your go-to resource for leadership that matters. Listen now and start cultivating your leadership journey.Don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss another episode!

In this episode, Diana gets candid about her journey from being a self-proclaimed “negative” leader to embracing humility as her greatest superpower. Packed with practical takeaways, Diana shares:· The art of curiosity: How asking the right questions can unlock innovation.· Mastering feedback: Using honest (and sometimes uncomfortable) insights to grow as a leader.· Chasing the impossible: Why prioritizing learning can help you achieve audacious goals.If you’ve ever wondered how top leaders turn challenges into growth opportunities, this conversation is for you. Tune in and discover why curiosity and humility are the ultimate tools for building unstoppable teams.Connect with Diana- Connect on LinkedIn- Follow her on Instagram- Visit her WebsiteConnect with AFA- Follow us on LinkedIn- Follow us on Instagram- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on TikTok- Visit our WebsiteAbout The Cultivating Leaders PodcastReal stories. Practical advice. Tangible growth. Join The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, brought to you by Agriculture Future of America, as we explore what it takes to lead in food, agriculture, and beyond. Whether you’re just starting out or leading at the highest level, this podcast is your go-to resource for leadership that matters. Listen now and start cultivating your leadership journey.Don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss another episode!

In this episode of The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, host Nicole Erceg sits down with Jake Worcester, Vice President of Development at National 4-H Council, to explore the art of navigating change in today’s evolving workplace. Jake shares practical strategies for leading through transitions, fostering a strong team culture in remote environments, and building trust and resilience in times of uncertainty. Whether you’re leading a remote team or adapting to workplace shifts, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to help you lead with confidence and clarity.Connect with Jake- Connect on LinkedInLearn more about the National 4-H Council- Connect on LinkedIn- Visit their WebsiteConnect with AFA- Follow us on LinkedIn- Follow us on Instagram- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on TikTok- Visit our WebsiteAbout The Cultivating Leaders PodcastReal stories. Practical advice. Tangible growth. Join The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, brought to you by Agriculture Future of America, as we explore what it takes to lead in food, agriculture, and beyond. Whether you’re just starting out or leading at the highest level, this podcast is your go-to resource for leadership that matters. Listen now and start cultivating your leadership journey.Don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss another episode!