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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
- Intentional 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 Jewell
Action Steps for Listeners
- Reflect 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 Are
- An agribusiness professional navigating innovation and change
- A leader looking to set clear, long-term direction for your team
- Interested in sustainability, soil health, or the future of agricultural inputs
- Passionate about personal and professional growth in leadership
