Description

In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Justin Stewart, U.S. Sales Leader for Corteva Agriscience’s Turf & Ornamental division. With over two decades of experience in agriculture, specialty markets, and team development, Justin shares what it takes to lead with intention—from asking better questions to creating a culture where people can lead themselves. His grounded, servant-hearted leadership style and strategic mindset offer valuable insight for anyone looking to elevate their impact.

Key Takeaways

Intentional Leadership Begins with Self-Awareness

Justin highlights how the best leaders know themselves first—understanding what makes them tick and how that shapes the way they lead others.

The Shift from Hero to Guide

True leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about equipping others to step into their own leadership. Justin shares how this mindset shift can transform teams.

Ask Better Questions, Get Better Outcomes

Whether with clients or team members, Justin emphasizes the power of curiosity. Questions like “What does success look like for you?” can open doors to better strategy and deeper connection.

Creating a Culture Where People Lead Themselves

Empowering others doesn’t mean backing off—it means setting clear expectations, modeling consistency, and giving people room to rise.

Stay Hungry, Stay Humble

Justin’s leadership is rooted in both grit and grace. He believes you can pursue excellence without ego and lead with authority while staying approachable.

Notable Quotes

• “You can't lead others well if you’re not leading yourself first.” – Justin Stewart
• “The best leaders help others step up, not just fall in line.” – Justin Stewart
• “Curiosity is the most underused leadership tool.” – Justin Stewart
• “Culture isn’t what you say—it’s what you consistently do.” – Justin Stewart
• “Sometimes the best leadership move is to ask a better question, not give a better answer.” – Justin Stewart

Action Steps

• Reflect: Where are you leading from assumption instead of curiosity?
• Ask yourself: “What’s one question I can ask today that would help someone grow?”
• Practice consistency in small things—this is where culture is truly built.
• Empower your team by modeling self-leadership and encouraging ownership.
• Take inventory of where you might be trying to “save” your team instead of equipping them.

Listen If You Are:

• A leader seeking to build an empowered, self-led team
• A sales professional wanting to deepen your client relationships
• A coach, mentor, or manager in ag or specialty markets
• Looking to grow in self-awareness and servant leadership
• Curious about how intentionality drives long-term success in agribusiness

If this episode resonated with you, join us at the next Thriving Leader Event — where intentional leadership goes from theory to practice. Connect with like-minded leaders and build the clarity, confidence, and capacity you need to grow your people and business.  👉 Learn more and sign up here: https://www.themomentumcompany.com/thrivingleader2025