Shows
The Pacesetter PodEp146: Activating Strategy Part 2 - Abandon SWOTShow Highlights: The elements and problems of a typical strategy offsite. [02:06] What's a SWOT analysis? [04:20] Why SWOT is misleading. [05:48] Pitfalls of over-engineering the planning process. [09:31] Rethinking the level of investment in strategy activation. [12:58] Artificial urgency vs. allowing time for strategy refinement. [14:26] Benefits of the single-page strategy concept. [18:09] Community calls to action if this episode was helpful. [19:40] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2025-12-2420 min
The Pacesetter PodEp145: Activating Strategy Part 1 - Planning Isn't StrategyShow Highlights: Introduction to the "Activating Strategy" miniseries. [00:52] Why planning is not a strategy. [04:05] Three critical components in a strategy activation plan. [07:12] What risks can a decoupling strategy from planning prevent? [08:47] Four simple ways to distinguish strategy from planning. [11:56] Inviting agribusinesses with strategic clarity to be featured on the pod. [14:00] Alert on what's coming up on the miniseries. [14:38] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2025-12-1716 min
The Pacesetter PodEp144: Ag's Generalist vs. Specialist Growth ChallengeShow Highlights: What structural constraints are on talent in agribusiness? [01:12] How growth amplifies challenges in people processes. [05:04] Understanding the shift to specialization in businesses. [09:39] The core generalist vs. specialist choice and its impacts. [16:18] Ways to explicitly address generalist–specialist tensions. [18:05] The spectrum between generalists and specialists. [19:43] What can leaders do to foster a balanced talent strategy? [24:02] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2025-12-1026 min
The Pacesetter PodEp143: Overcoming Iteration Hesitancy with Courtney Yuskis of DTNShow Highlights: Solving problems vs. product focus in agribusiness. [04:58] Is on-farm experience a must for solution development? [07:21] The "right to win" in solution development in ag. [10:02] Lessons from healthcare on making industry-scale changes in ag. [12:51] What is the realistic timeline for ROI in agtech? [15:46] Farmer profitability and de-risking solution adoption. [18:29] Courtney Yuskis' career in ag and the crux of iterative steps for industry progress. [20:24] Learn about DTN's focus on sustainability and soil health. [26:17] Steps to ensure healthy skepticism during innovation. [31:03] Friction points of risk clustering in solution development. [40:31] Concerns and use cases on leverage and caution with AI. [44:19]
2025-12-0349 min
The Pacesetter PodEp142: Is M&A Failure Risk Overstated?Show Highlights: Do 70–90% of M&A deals fail to deliver or destroy value? [01:36] The origin of the M&A value destruction stat. [04:53] Historical context and contemporary relevance of stats. [07:44] The sample and methodology of the 1999 KPMG study. [08:36] The late-1990s macroeconomic context of the U.S. [11:29] Asian and Russian economic volatility during the study. [14:37] Do the late-90s economic cycles shape M&A in ag today? [18:36] Three reasons for skepticism of the stat's applicability. [23:09] Objectively rethink widely accepted M&A success beliefs. [28:40] "Unlocking Shareholder Value: The Keys to Success" (KPMG, 1999): https://pages.stern.nyu.edu/~adamodar/pdfiles/eq...
2025-11-2633 min
The Pacesetter PodEp141: Concentrations of Demand with Ben Baer of Livestock Nutrition CentersShow Highlights: The unvarnished journey of Livestock Nutrition Centers. [04:56] What custom bulk feed blends solve for pre-feedlot beef cattle. [08:57] Why custom feed mixes are superior to big brand pellets. [12:15] Successfully counter-positioning in livestock nutrition. [16:26] Maturing from competing on price to selling value as ag suppliers. [27:06] Customization vs. efficiency trade-offs. [33:03] Will individualized feed blends inevitably homogenize? [36:03] Is a complete market shift toward custom blends likely? [38:31] To learn more about Livestock Nutrition Centers, visit https://lnc-online.com/. Contact Ben Baer on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-baer-5627714/. If you are interested in connecting...
2025-11-1942 min
The Pacesetter PodEp140: Tackling Ag's Talent Deficit Problem with Mark Waschek of Ag 1 SourceShow Highlights: Overview of Mark Waschek's career and Ag1Source. [05:07] Is agribusiness in a talent surplus or deficit currently? [09:05] Impacts of prioritizing structural assets over employee training in ag. [14:01] Is growing and promoting talent internally better for ag? [17:25] Why ag companies must pre-qualify leadership pipelines early. [19:19] The "Four Pillars" process for future leader evaluation. [28:57] Should incumbent CEOs exit succession discussions? [33:17] "Continue, Stop, Create" strategy to envision future CEOs by desired outcomes. [40:19] The power of EOS and its "Three Uniques" at Ag1Source. [48:54] Inviting you to share this episode with industry friends. [58:52] Learn more about Ag1Source at...
2025-11-1259 min
The Pacesetter PodEp139: Should Ag Co-ops Generate a Profit? with Glen Franzluebbers of No Limit AgShow Highlights: Glen Franzluebbers' life in ag and No Limit Ag's focus. [05:32] The need for synergy over size in the current co-op M&A wave. [12:05] Make co-op scaling objectives and strategy explicit pre-deal. [18:05] Problem-first strategic steps for precision ag and AI use. [24:32] Signs of the problem-first approach done unproductively. [29:16] Discover the "Success Triangle" for testing new ideas. [32:21] How to exit failed initiatives successfully with learnings. [36:05] Reserve the right to learn and pivot as agtech evolves. [37:37] Should co-ops even be making money? [41:40] No Limit Ag's advisory offerings and areas of value. [51:00] Connect with Glen Franzluebbers on LinkedIn at...
2025-11-0553 min
The Pacesetter PodEp138: Building Better Ag Strategy with Mac Marshall of ApeelShow Highlights: Agribusiness strategic commercialization focus. [06:16] The need for cross-functional collaboration when assessing risk. [14:18] Ensure rigor with reciprocal quantitative and qualitative data. [17:06] Why opportunistic M&A must be rooted in a preexisting strategy. [21:36] How Apeel scales edible coatings to reduce food waste. [27:46] Is de-risking farming the real mission of agtech? [28:31] Respecting multivariable farmer decisions when solving slow tech adoption. [37:22] Reconcile long-term planning with market volatility. [50:29] "Home vs. away" game thinking in ag and when to pivot. [52:19] The value of dedicating time and resources to experimentation. [01:00:45] Explore Apeel Sciences at https://www.apeel.com/. To connect...
2025-10-291h 08
The Pacesetter PodEp137: Breaking Down the Proposed UP-NS Mega-Merger with Jay Shabat of Railroad WeeklyShow Highlights: Meet Jay Shabat, industry analyst and Railroad Weekly author. [04:25] Overview of Class I railroads and their market power. [08:01] Lessons from the pros and cons of the CPKC merger. [13:48] What's driving Union Pacific's acquisition of NS? [18:29] Why Norfolk Southern is open to a strategic merger with UP. [24:39] Potential impacts of the UP–NS merger on ag shippers. [31:31] The STB's regulatory relief for captive shippers and competitive remedies. [38:38] UP's argument for transcontinental shipping efficiency. [44:34] Will BNSF and CSX respond with their own merger? [49:31] Scheduled UP–NS deal closing and STB review process. [57:25] Access Railroad Weekly at https://rail...
2025-10-221h 02
The Pacesetter PodEp136: Agribusiness 2026 M&A Outlook with Scott Porter of Cascadia CapitalShow Highlights: Cascadia Capital's services, its ag practice and ag client profiles. [03:55] The impact of net farm income on ag market dynamics. [08:04] What are the drivers of supply–demand imbalance in ag? [09:50] M&A as an exit in downturns, and qualities of winning companies. [14:17] Crucial strategic considerations for opportunistic M&As. [20:21] The paradox of market recovery and producer distress. [26:10] Explore four distinct M&A "eras" identified in ag. [30:50] Two co-op types and long-term sustainability explained. [37:40] What attracts PE to ag and yet causes surging dry powder? [43:34] Learn about the types of private investors in ag. [47:52] Industry-wide implications of Bu...
2025-10-1556 min
The Pacesetter PodEp135: Five Strategies for Capital Project Success in Ag with Matt Frandsen of Keen Project SolutionsShow Highlights: Discover full-service design-build Keen Project Solutions. [06:22] Serving clients of all sizes in the agribusiness spectrum. [11:28] How to facilitate project-objective clarity with clients. [15:52] Why slow front-end planning matters for fast execution. [20:16] The "must-do" list for successful CapEx projects in ag. [27:54] The importance of appointing a dedicated project lead. [34:47] Minimizing gaps between operator needs and procurement strategies. [38:26] Keen's merit shop Millwright apprenticeship program. [44:15] To learn more about Keen Project Solutions, visit https://thinkdifferentthinkkeen.com/. Connect with Matt Frandsen on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-frandsen-6ba3773/. If you are interested in...
2025-10-0848 min
The Pacesetter PodEp134: Captive Insurance and Total Cost of Risk in Ag with Lane Danielsen and Jonathan Stark of TrueNorth CompaniesShow Highlights: What's captive insurance, and how does it work? [05:13] Control over risk attracting agribusinesses to captives. [07:18] How captives offer an underwriting income opportunity. [08:58] Financial and tax benefits in captives compared to self-insurance. [12:54] Get to know TrueNorth Companies and their unique strengths. [16:43] Rural risk factors in ag and insurance market challenges. [20:20] Understand the real costs involved in deductibles. [28:45] How are evolving market cycles redefining co-op insurance? [32:29] Analyze your "total cost of risk" beyond premiums. [39:08] Why partnering with a proactive, consultative broker matters. [42:32] Explore TrueNorth Companies at https://truenorthcompanies.com/. Find Lane Danielsen at LinkedIn at...
2025-10-0144 min
The Pacesetter PodEp133: The Messy Middleware of Ag Innovation with Brad Fruth of Beck's HybridsShow Highlights: Defining and fostering innovation at Beck's Hybrids. [04:32] Balancing skunkworks for future lines within R&D. [08:37] Bridging the gap between internal innovation and the farm gate. [12:44] Why does Beck partner with startups as a customer, avoiding a CVC model? [16:26] Hard lessons from rejected ideas and organizational resistance. [23:22] The power of relationships in driving innovation. [26:12] How to handle risk and goal misalignment in leadership. [35:26] The single most important trait that startup partners cannot fake. [43:18] Advice for innovation leaders and change agents. [48:17] Learn more about Beck's Hybrids at https://www.beckshybrids.com/. To connect with Brad...
2025-09-2450 min
The Pacesetter PodEp 132: Beans Without Borders - A History of U.S. Soybean Exports with Jim Sutter of the U.S. Soybean Export CouncilShow Highlights: USSEC's formation, role, and three strategic objectives. [06:05] Why countries import soy, and its unique global demand growth. [14:10] How past U.S. trade tensions led to Brazil's soy export boom. [16:12] A timeline of U.S.–China soybean trade from 1995 to the 2020 "Phase One" deal. [21:03] Benefits of reducing export risk by diversifying markets. [25:53] The future of U.S. soy in China in the 2025 tariff fallout. [26:45] What a VT study predicts about China's soybean imports. [31:50] Will the 90-day tariff truce extension with China work? [38:35] Healing trust and trade partnerships post-disruption. [43:37] The U.S. brand value vs. supply dominance. [47:00] Can Ch...
2025-09-1757 min
The Pacesetter PodEp131: Agility is a Choice with Erik Lightner of Platinum CrushShow Highlights: Spotlight on Platinum Crush in soybean mainstay Iowa. [05:06] Erik Lightner's reverse-trajectory from ADM and Haskell to startup leader. [11:36] Lessons in pacing business building and asset readiness. [15:48] Four strategic allocation categories for capital. [22:50] What are "must-haves" vs. "wants" in a $400M startup? [27:33] How regional crushers can compete with industry giants. [31:36] Why agility is a daily choice to prevent bureaucracy. [36:44] Gaining trust and market share amid local competition. [44:00] What Platinum Crush would do in a deficit area scenario. [48:43] Erik's core takeaway for leaders on the preeminent value of people. [50:20] Find out more about Platinum Crush by visiting...
2025-09-1054 min
The Pacesetter PodEp130: Straddling Hope and Uncertainty with Carrie Vollmer-Sanders of Field to MarketShow Highlights: Field to Market's unique positioning in the ag value chain. [04:51] Why equal voices matter in a cross-sector coalition. [06:26] What are Field to Market's core functions and tools? [07:57] The value of real ag sector experience for coalition leadership. [10:42] Sustainability insights by agribusinesses from Field to Market's Annual Meeting. [15:00] M&A lessons from harnessing diversity in coalitions. [27:41] The role of collaborative data in the Triscuits supply chain. [31:24] How U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol assesses sustainability. [36:26] Discover what's next for Field to Market—and participate. [40:45] To learn more about Field to Market, go to https://fieldtomarket.org/.
2025-09-0343 min
The Pacesetter PodEp129: Ag's Efficiency Preoccupation Problem with Andrew Hoelscher of Farm StrategyShow Highlights: Understand the efficiency preoccupation in agriculture. [05:31] Facing the truth of bulk commodity vs. food production. [07:58] Uncover the true cost stack of food with bread pricing. [10:11] Capturing additive value and providing food solutions as producers. [13:15] Why ag innovation must focus on end-user food needs. [18:31] Explore the economics and benefits of shifting production-ag value chains. [22:44] Get to know Andrew Hoelscher and Farm Strategy. [26:01] Barriers and opposition to supply chain change. [31:22] How to foster trust and manage supply chain issues. [38:44] Realistic steps to drive supply chain transformations. [43:42] To learn more about Farm Strategy, go to https://farmstrategy.com/.
2025-08-2752 min
The Pacesetter PodEp128: Ag's Asset Problem (Revisited)Show Highlights: Revisiting Ep. 111: Ag's Asset Problem and Rural Blight [00:38] How your feedback improves thinking and learning. [04:13] Outpaced, misaligned small country elevator challenges. [06:42] Hyper-local solutions to make antiquated assets work. [10:26] Discover a novel entrepreneurial use of defunct truck houses. [14:00] Explore a listener's elevator "checkoff" fund proposal. [15:13] A truck house retention criteria from a company successfully reducing them. [17:01] Why evolving opinions with new data and ideas matters. [23:24] Community participation shaping The Pacesetter Pod. [24:35] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www...
2025-08-2026 minThe Pacesetter PodEp127: 6 Rules To Bet Your Career On with Ernie Chappell of EFC SystemsShow Highlights: Ernie Chappell's background and the EFC Systems story. [04:54] The importance of prioritizing longevity and buyer needs over rapid growth. [08:00] Early signs of board misalignment and ways to resolve it. [19:11] How to communicate a vision to a board in a risk appetite mismatch. [23:00] The benefits of a people-first attitude in leadership. [29:55] Does the pain point you solve generate revenue? [31:06] Get over marketing aversion and tell your story with substance. [32:51] Understanding consolidation and embracing change. [34:08] Capital raising vs. capital efficiency and operational rigor. [40:50] Read Ernie Chappell's LinkedIn article, Six Rules I'd Bet a Career On, here: https...
2025-08-1350 min
The Pacesetter PodEp126: De-Risking M&A in Your AgribusinessShow Highlights: Laying M&A de-risking foundations in agribusiness. [00:40] Understand M&A as a process, not an event. [4:56] The pitfalls that lead M&A deals to disappoint. [06:36] The real challenge of post-deal integration. [10:53] How does M&A integration put pressure on a business? [11:35] Why a deal-objectives-derived integration plan matters. [17:29] The value of managing deferred decisions internally. [18:45] Being open to post-deal information asymmetry. [20:07] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2025-08-0625 min
The Pacesetter PodEp125: Navigating Energy Abundance and 95% Flat Price Risk with Levi Hall of Horizon ResourcesShow Highlights: What sets Horizon Resources apart. [03:54] North Dakota's ag co-op merger aversion [06:05] The ag co-op business model amid the Bakken oil boom and bust. [09:54] The power of scaling known capabilities in a time of rapid growth. [16:21] Grain origination and managing unhedgeable flat-price risk. [22:34] Buyer concentration, no-bid decisions, and hyperlocal market dynamics. [30:19] The unique value of truck houses for Horizon Resources. [34:34] Considerations of offensive vs. defensive asset deployment. [45:41] On the Horizon podcast as a powerful educational value driver. [47:15] High-caliber rural talent in local co-ops—and where to get hired. [56:21] Learn more about Horizon Resources by visiting https://ww...
2025-07-301h 00
The Pacesetter PodEp124: The Ag Co-Op Diversification MythShow Highlights: Definition of diversification. [02:28] Is diversification always objectively valuable in ag? [03:10] The diversification misnomer in the context of co-ops. [04:29] Perceived vs. real diversification. [08:27] Three critical risks of attempting true diversification. [13:01] What problems do we seek to resolve by diversification? [17:29] The fallacy that diversifying adds member value to co-ops. [21:18] Diversification vs. differentiation in agribusiness. [23:07] Advice to help rethink how to approach diversification. [24:44] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2025-07-2327 min
The Pacesetter PodEp123: Fixing Ag Freight with Jared Flinn of BulkLoadsShow Highlights: BulkLoads' origin story and company overview. [03:31] Opportunities and challenges ag bulk freight creates. [07:39] Service innovation with factoring and TMS solutions. [21:24] Insights on broad appeal and pain points beyond load matching. [26:26] The benefits of digitization in trucking and freight. [28:47] Explore the uses and trends of AI robotics in trucking. [36:20] The future role of load boards as robo-trucks and AI evolve. [39:54] Is there added complexity in ag bulk hauling vs. general freight? [47:12] Check out The BulkLoads Podcast hosted by Jared. [48:45] Explore BulkLoads at https://www.bulkloads.com/. Find Jared Flinn on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com...
2025-07-1654 min
The Pacesetter PodEp122: Strategy First, AI Second with Rhishi Pethe & Patrick HoncoopShow Highlights: Taking a collective approach to agtech advisory needs. [06:13] The Collective's service offerings and expertise. [10:37] Core forms of AI in ag with compelling examples. [17:46] Why a digital strategy is essential for every agribusiness. [25:45] Factors hindering AI adoption away from Excel and ERPs. [26:09] How does AI enhance operational efficiencies for farmers, dealers, and agronomists? [32:58] The danger of the "do something with AI" mandate in agribusiness [42:07] How to lead digital and AI adoption with agribusiness goals in mind. [51:22] To contact the AgTech Advisory Collective, go to https://www.agtech-collective.com/. Rhishi Pethe can be reached at...
2025-07-0955 min
The Pacesetter PodEp121: Rethinking Customer Retention Risk Post-M&AShow Highlights: Understand the centrality of customer retention in M&A success. [00:47] The importance of defining retention goals as explicit data-driven targets. [02:43] How to identify the customers to prioritize in retention strategies. [04:18] Why first-year post-deal retention is not predictive. [05:57] Growth and retention as "both/and" objectives explained with M&A math. [11:49] The value of anchoring retention and growth plans in existing customer realities. [15:21] Three core takeaways to capitalize on the increased M&A activity in ag. [19:28] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule...
2025-07-0221 min
The Pacesetter PodEp120: Crop Fertility and Humics M&A with Nick Bancroft of AgroLiquidShow Highlights: Learn about Michigan-based AgroLiquid 40+ years strong in crop fertility. [03:15] Why AgroLiquid chose M&A for growth after decades of organic expansion. [05:55] The five-key disciplined framework that led to acquiring Monty's Plant Food. [06:47] Understand the post-deal realities of integration. [15:28] Is your agribusiness sellable, though you may never sell? [21:07] Explore the seller's vision and legacy concerns in M&A. [25:15] Advice for M&A target sourcing and first meetings. [27:40] What made Monty's Plant Food a strategic fit for AgroLiquid? [32:46] Achieving smart growth through adjacent innovation. [37:22] Learn more about AgroLiquid at https://www.agroliquid.com/. Visit https...
2025-06-2544 min
The Pacesetter PodEp119: Investing in Rural America with Jase Wagner of Compeer FinancialShow Highlights: How Compeer Financial positions its identity and impact in agribusiness. [03:40] Multilateral collaboration as an ag innovation accelerator. [07:29] How an abundance mindset, not zero-sum thinking, benefits ag. [12:20] Why long-term rural community development matters for true sustainability in ag. [16:36] Defining a strong organizational culture and articulating its essence as a leader. [27:46] The risks of prioritizing client outcomes over values. [36:44] Upside lessons from a tri-party ag credit banking merger. [40:08] Navigating the current state of uncertainty in ag. [49:36] Learn more about Compeer Financial at https://www.compeer.com/. To connect with Jase Wagner on LinkedIn, go to...
2025-06-1853 min
The Pacesetter PodEp118: Demand Signals and Supply Equilibrium with Ryan Locke of National Oilseed Processors AssociationShow Highlights: Discover the origins and key role of NOPA in oilseeds. [05:04] The latest science vs. sentiment conversation on seed oils in food. [09:01] Are seed oils ultra-processed as the MAHA Commission asserts? [11:12] Why clear policy signals from RVOs and 45Z tax credits are critical. [18:54] How 45Z policy changes will directly benefit domestic farmers and producers. [21:38] Will the 45Z extension revive soybean crush capacity? [25:47] Sunsets, uncertainties and policy shocks behind plant closures in ag. [29:31] Is RVO an artificial demand driver? [33:59] What long-tail risks to U.S. export competitiveness are likely from the trade war with China? [46:21] How to follow o...
2025-06-1155 min
The Pacesetter PodEp117: Building Consolidation Proof Agtech with Kyle McMahon of Tractor ZoomShow Highlights: How Tractor Zoom transforms sales and inventory workflow for ag equipment dealers. [04:32] Real-time marketplace visibility and price discovery using AI. [08:07] Tractor Zoom's origin story and the power of leveraging genuine pain points. [14:26] Why true value comes from workflow integration, not data for data's sake. [19:49] The importance of dealer–farmer relationships in the equipment value chain. [23:20] Is Tractor Zoom poised to adapt to farm and dealer consolidation? [28:58] Balancing customer-driven innovation with the internal product roadmap. [37:31] Data-driven sales acceleration, multi-OEM quoting, and more AgTech on the horizon. [41:25] Potential for lateral growth and industry comparisons. [43:49] Learn more about Tr...
2025-06-0446 min
The Pacesetter PodEp116: Solving Agribusiness Customer Retention Risk with Andrew Levenson of Root+BetaShow Highlights: Root + Beta's niche marketing for John Deere dealer groups and scope of services. [03:35] Emerging trend of cross-border M&As in ag equipment. [07:38] Potential risks to customer retention during M&A branding. [15:43] Why failure to engage staff in the M&A process is a critical PR misstep. [19:57] How to plan and execute external and internal M&A communications. [23:39] Storytelling to create concurrent legacy and prospective customer buy-in. [27:32] Importance of employee training to navigate a reprioritized customer base. [31:02] The power of authenticity and highlighting differentiators—not overselling—in post-deal branding. [37:25] Learn more about Root + Beta at https://root...
2025-05-2842 min
The Pacesetter PodEp114: AI is an Ag Labor Multiplier with Jake Joraanstad of BushelShow Highlights: Transforming the way farmers use digital solutions. [03:16] Addition through subtraction: how killing the paper scale ticket creates new value. [06:24] The myth of tech-resistant farmers and barriers to adoption. [12:07] Bushel's strategy of selling to agribusinesses, not growers. [19:05] Why white-label solutions are the efficiency optimizer in ag. [26:41] Additive agtech focuses on enhancement, not disruption. [31:07] Use cases, flaws and forecasts for LLMs ag. [34:49] The importance of digitizing CRM adoption to leverage AI benefits. [41:20] The coming wave of autonomy and robotics in agriculture. [45:37] Self-driving trucks are an opportunity, not a threat. [49:22] Explore Bushel by visiting https://bushelpowered.com/.
2025-05-1453 min
The Pacesetter PodEp113: Stewarding Value Amid Uncertainty with Dusty Clevenger of Ascendant PartnersShow Highlights: Dusty's "Formula for Growth Success" framework. [03:59] How to keep strategy alive, not static, to seize real market opportunities. [09:36] Clear strategies and simplifying strategic-fit decision-making in agribusiness. [15:30] The power of decisions deferred in M&A. [18:19] The key to securing shareholder buy-in. [24:34] How the market rewards you for growth and execution. [31:58] The reputational influence of stewardship in agribusiness. [35:49] Ascendant Partners' full-suite of growth services for the ag industry. [40:29] Navigating distress and uncertainty in today's market. [46:03] Learn more about Ascendant Partners by visiting https://ascendantpartners.com/. To contact Dusty Clevenger, go to https://www.linkedin.com...
2025-05-0752 minThe Pacesetter PodEp113: Stewarding Value Amid Uncertainty with Dusty Clevenger of Ascendant PartnersShow Highlights: Dusty's "Formula for Growth Success" framework. [03:59] How to keep strategy alive, not static, to seize real market opportunities. [09:36] Clear strategies and simplifying strategic-fit decision-making in agribusiness. [15:30] The power of decisions deferred in M&A. [18:19] The key to securing shareholder buy-in. [24:34] How the market rewards you for growth and execution. [31:58] The reputational influence of stewardship in agribusiness. [35:49] Ascendant Partners' full-suite of growth services for the ag industry. [40:29] Navigating distress and uncertainty in today's market. [46:03] Learn more about Ascendant Partners by visiting https://ascendantpartners.com/. To contact Dusty Clevenger, go to https://www.linkedin.com...
2025-05-0752 min
The Pacesetter PodEp112: Sell Solutions, Not Technology with Damien LepoutreShow Highlights: Discover Damien Lepoutre's story of Geosys and AgTech evolution. [03:50] How early weather-data-sharing evolved from static maps to dynamic updates. [08:32] Challenges of providing unique value to the customers of a proprietary solution. [12:20] What made acquisition by Land O'Lakes a strategic fit as an exit strategy for Geosys? [20:37] Excess capital and overvaluation mistakes to avoid for post-acquisition investor confidence. [26:47] Why did Geosys prioritize people over government funding for R&D? [31:28] Explore Geosys' model of goal alignment in their NASA and USDA–ARS-funded R&D. [37:47] Damien Lepoutre's life after Geosys as a strategic consultant for deploying digital tech in ag...
2025-04-3046 min
The Pacesetter PodEp111: Ag's Asset Problem and Rural BlightShow Highlights: The crisis of the overconcentration of underperforming grain assets explained. [01:31] How market trends exacerbate the issue of aging grain assets. [04:21] What will happen to country elevators with 45Z regulations? [07:35] The importance of farmer succession to preserve smaller assets. [12:15] Ideas to rethink production demand if you believe grain yields can plateau. [12:41] Who bears the burden of shuttered agricultural assets? [16:19] Explore the ground realities of rural blight. [21:35] Discover possible exit strategies for stranded assets. [23:19] Call for listener ideas and in-person participation in future episodes. [27:19] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: ...
2025-04-2329 min
The Pacesetter PodE110: Solving for Utility with Aaron Secrest of Digital Grain ElevatorShow Highlights: How DGE is reshaping AgTech, notably with the FOB Ag Logistics Platform. [03:09] DGE's unconventional problem-first strategy to create solutions for real industry needs. [06:49] The trust value of utility-centric AgTech vs. theoretical distractions. [16:09] Discover DGE's impact as a pure-tech play partner for ADM and across tech-enabled ag. [21:07] Scale operator example to discuss streamlining logistical operations to reduce friction. [24:52] How does DGE address the issue of interoperability with existing systems? [29:17] Are constraints growth enablers for AgTech startups? [37:24] Strategic insights on ego, capital efficiency and business risk for scalable startups. [42:17] To learn more about Digital Grain Elevator, visit...
2025-04-1649 min
The Pacesetter PodEp109: Yield is the BMI of AgShow Highlights: A reminder to make sure this podcast enriches your agribusiness. [00:24] Why measuring with nuance utilizing quality metrics matters. [00:45] Is BMI an easy but outdated health benchmark? [03:52] How GDP shapes an imperfect understanding of prosperity. [10:18] Uncover true indicators of farm productivity a yield-only metric overlooks. [13:47] How to strengthen metrics with complementary measures in the BMI and GDP examples. [20:11] Discover ideas to revamp agribusiness metrics. [23:09] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2025-04-0926 min
The Pacesetter PodEp108: Growth Eats Cash with Shawn Skaggs of Parallel AgShow Highlights: How Parallel Ag benefits from geographic and dealership diversification. [02:33] Explore operational complexities introduced by broad distribution. [06:37] Discover the origin and growth strategy of Parallel Ag. [09:30] What capital and PE partners want from a potential investment in your agribusiness. [16:16] Challenges of greenfield expansion vs. acquisition. [22:25] The importance of cultural fit for successful M&As beyond financial strategy. [28:11] How John Deere and AGCO differ in dealer consolidation. [31:43] Mistakes to avoid with expectations and bottlenecks in M&A. [40:29] What's the worst way to ruin a business after buying it? [44:50] To connect with Shawn Skaggs or to learn more...
2025-04-0249 min
The Pacesetter PodEp106: Ag Coop Culture and Consolidation with Scott Black of Five Star CooperativeShow Highlights: Learn about Five Star Co-op and Scott Black's role. [03:29] Can a non-grain expert lead a major grain co-op? [07:53] Why a well-defined culture is the great organizational differentiator. [13:00] Discover Five Star Co-op's process of defining its caring culture. [18:58] How to overcome resistance to culture building in a company. [26:05] Explore the role of compassionate leadership in successful transformations. [35:10] Early indicators of cultural success in an organization. [38:11] What to expect in ag co-op consolidation ahead. [43:06] The importance of CEO networking and cooperation in ag. [51:58] Learn more about Five Star Co-op at https://www.fivestarcoop.com/. If...
2025-03-1955 min
The Pacesetter PodEp105: AgTech Risk and Resiliency-as-a-FeatureShow Highlights: Important AgTech questions from a new Compeer Financial conference. [00:42] Explore evolving AgTech risk profiles. [02:21] Get an overview of AgTech solution types. [04:09] What will you do if your AgTech adoptions fail? [06:22] Impact on Israeli farms due to GPS jamming post-Oct. 7. [07:55] Will John Deere's fully autonomous farming system be disruption-resilient? [11:56] Are you risk-ready for the tech-dependent future of farming? [15:38] Invitation to connect with The Pacesetter Pod. [17:46] Read "Israel's Wartime Farmers Are Relearning How to Plow Without GPS" here: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-08/israel-s-wartime-farmers-are-relearning-how-to-plow-without-gps If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go...
2025-03-1218 min
The Pacesetter PodEp104: Harnessing Ag Diversity with Janna Fritz of DF SeedsShow Highlights: Learn about Michigan's DF Seeds and its non-GMO focus. [02:42] Janna Fritz's journey from suburban roots to agricultural advocacy. [08:20] Explore DF Seeds' strategic soybean innovations with industry bodies. [12:31] Distinct opportunities offered by Michigan's ag diversity over high-yielding I-states. How to benefit from ag industry collaboration and volunteerism. [27:49] Does partaking in aggregate demand creation harm an agribusiness' market edge? [33:36] How John Diehl and Chris Varner's DF Seeds' stories tie into a unified sales strategy today. [37:52] Black ice and navigating strategic shifts. To learn more about DF Seeds, visit https://dfseeds.com/. If you are interested in co...
2025-03-0548 min
The Pacesetter PodEp103: Ag Down Cycles and FOMO M&AShow Highlights: What exactly is an agribusiness down cycle? [01:35] Examine the drivers of ag down cycles from multiple angles. [02:43] How agribusiness commonly responds to down cycles. [09:22] Offense by improvements vs. defense by M&A as a growth strategy.[15:09] Discover the nine primary types of M&A transactions. [16:40] Understand FOMO-driven reactive M&A risks. [21:32] Is your M&A deal truly aligned with your strategy? [25:45] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2025-02-2628 min
The Pacesetter PodEp102: Breaking Down Decarbonization Constraints with Matt Smorch of CountryMarkShow Highlights: Discover how CountryMark has made a unique mark in energy. [03:09] Understand global energy transitions with historical contexts. [14:17] The shocking statistical reality of 100% renewable energy reliance. [19:12] Is the $3T global solar and wind investment producing a useful EROI? [22:59] Additive benefits of biofuels and their positive impact on American farmers. [27:02] The U.S. agriculture vs. renewable energy dilemma. [29:56] Is decarbonization driven by policy or demand? [35:08] Can the renewable energy industry function without subsidies? [41:54] How to approach strategy execution within the decarbonization trajectory. [46:19] Integration and diversification as strategic benefits to co-ops. [53:30] Learn more about CountryMark at https://www...
2025-02-1956 min
The Pacesetter PodEp101: Articulating and Activating Your M&A Integration StrategyShow Highlights: Learn the two key themes in successful strategy execution. [00:24] Visualize organizational process categories. [03:11] How process taxonomy can benefit an agribusiness. [05:16] What is a heat map? [07:37] Use case of heat maps in guiding post-M&A work. [08:33] Tips to strategically prioritize integration focus with heat maps. [14:37] Discover tools to technically develop process taxonomy and heat map. [19:06] The cost of attempting integration without heat maps. [22:14] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2025-02-1226 min
The Pacesetter PodEp100: Managing Diversification Risk with Elizabeth South of Keystone CooperativeShow Highlights: Learn about Keystone Cooperative's history, divisions and evolution. [00:06:50] Strategic vs. opportunistic growth explained with Keystone's formative mergers. [00:09:19] Best practices for creating an ideal partner profile for M&As. [00:14:56] Joint ventures as a growth strategy for potential M&As. [00:16:24] Uncover signals and team roles for moving from JVs to M&As. [00:20:52] Dissect due diligence processes for pre-deal and PMI phases. [00:28:02] How do risks differ in geographic vs. product diversification in ag? [00:35:23] Is your farm diversified for multigenerational succession? [00:39:35] Explore the value of in-house legal counsel for an agribusiness. [00:42:06] Why U.S. farmers matter for national security and...
2025-02-0553 min
The Pacesetter PodEp99: Think Deliberate, Not Different: Strategy Lessons from 99 Episodes of The Pacesetter PodShow Highlights: How ag strategy execution mirrors this podcast's core objectives. [00:02:37] Is this an ag podcast on business vs. business podcast on ag? [00:04:44] The value of embracing effort over seeking perfection. [00:09:06] Why deliberate thinking matters to succeed as ag leaders. [00:13:11] The importance of learning out loud with vulnerability. [00:18:26] Identifying essential risk-taking vs. reckless thinking [00:21:26] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2025-01-2925 min
The Pacesetter PodEp98: Financial Co-Piloting for Better Agribusiness Decisions with Bryan DeRuiter of Caledonia Farmers ElevatorShow Highlights: Discover 106-year-old Caledonia Farmers Elevator. [00:03:32] Gain insights on transitioning from specialty fruits to row crops. [00:08:53] Why financial metrics are core in any ag sector. [00:10:30] Do specialty crops fit the agricultural co-op model? [00:13:35] What has increased consolidation in the fruit sector? [00:14:07] Does your agribusiness lack a CFO co-pilot? [00:16:58] Explore the key benefits of financial leadership in ag. [00:21:55] Take a look at Caledonia Farmers Elevator's exemplary workplace culture. [00:25:13] How to hire for attitude over skills for effective talent acquisition. [00:28:08] Lessons to transfer in a broadacre-to-specialty reverse transition. [00:31:22] Learn more about Caledonia Farmers Elevator at https://cfeco.com.
2025-01-2233 min
The Pacesetter PodEp97: What Now? Executing Strategy in the Wake of LayoffsShow Highlights: What can be learned from the size of announced layoffs? [00:06:10] Why structural challenges spiral into drastic actions. [00:08:23] Clear-eyed, realistic expectations are non-negotiable with workforce reductions. [00:12:22] If decision-friction is the problem, are layoffs the right solution? [00:13:22] How to unlock post-layoff transformation. [00:15:26] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2025-01-1521 min
The Pacesetter PodEp96: What's Driving Ag Equipment Dealer Consolidation with Chris Rupiper of Prairie State TractorShow Highlights: Discover Prairie State Tractor and CEO Chris Rupiper's careers with John Deere. [00:04:29] Norms of well-organized mergers with KSR Equipment and Holland and Sons. [00:10:37] The key to easing friction for seamless M&A integration. [00:17:50] The power of top-down investment in employees. [00:21:46] Explore this pod resource on connecting employees to strategy. [00:27:28] Why consolidation in the ag equipment field mirrors industry trends. [00:29:33] How to manage varied customer profiles and diverse products and services. [00:37:12] To learn more about Prairie State Tractor, visit https://www.prairiestatetractor.com/. If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn:
2025-01-0841 min
The Pacesetter PodEp95: Better Agribusiness Performance Begins With Better Goal-SettingShow Highlights: Are you ready to refresh your goals for the New Year? [00:00:22] Discover the two goal-setting traps you must avoid. [00:03:35] Critical challenges in balanced, strategic goal setting. [00:04:49] Gain a clear four-question goal-setting framework. [00:08:22] Example application of Questions 1 and 2 of the recommended framework. [00:09:56] How to execute and measure success within the framework. [00:14:25] The importance of elevating your goal-setting strategy. [00:17:16] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2025-01-0119 min
The Pacesetter PodEp94: How Seeking Power Produces Underperformance at ScaleShow Highlights: Are you seeking power or seeking to empower? [00:01:52] How distributed ownership of outcomes transforms organizations. [00:02:43] The power of open systems to unlock team-driven creativity. [00:04:54] Why your time-horizon effectiveness should be for enduring growth. [00:07:02] Key questions to consider to adopt an empowering leadership approach. [00:09:26] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-12-2511 min
The Pacesetter PodEp93: Diversification and the Decision to Grow with Jeramie Weller of Minnesota Soybean ProcessorsShow Highlights: Discover MnSP and learn about CEO Jeramie Weller's industry expertise. [00:03:08] Is teamwork the secret to running lean facilities successfully? [00:14:29] How cultural integration reduces worker turnover and builds cohesion. [00:21:45] Speaking up vs. staying silent as new managers. [00:24:53] Lessons in diversification with MnSP's path to partnering with CGB. [00:28:52] Consider growth-rationale clarity for agribusinesses. [00:33:34] How to strategically approach capital partnerships. [00:37:45] The power of strategic locations in growth opportunities. [00:43:18] Tips to manage headwinds and tailwinds in the biofuels industry. [00:46:59] Insights on California's new §45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit. [00:48:02] Visit https://www.mnsoy.com/ to learn more about Minnesota Soybean Pr...
2024-12-1855 min
The Pacesetter PodEp92: Constraints and Resource-Scarcity are a Competitive AdvantageShow Highlights: Three episodes to revisit to understand constraints. [00:00:25] Explore the constraints in large companies in a dual value mandate. [00:02:37] How the layers in big companies stifle innovation. [00:06:20] Why small companies outpace big ones in innovation. [00:11:39] Shane Thomas' insights on uncertainty as the power driver of innovation. [00:12:22] Uncover the core constraints small companies face. [00:14:52] Explore the non-replicable nature of uncertainty. [00:17:39] Has human evolution hinged on stress? [00:18:54] What the docking scene in Interstellar teaches us. [00:19:41] Read Upstream Ag's article on innovation theater here: https://www.upstream.ag/p/innovation-theatre-shackles-to-progress If you are interested in connecting with Jo...
2024-12-1124 min
The Pacesetter PodEp91: The Wide Path Approach to Strategy Execution with Tucker Perkins of Propane Education & Research CouncilShow Highlights: What is the Propane Education & Research Council? [00:02:31] Energy transformation defined with examples, including Three Mile Island. [00:07:47] The importance of affordability in the future of energy. [00:11:28] Why propane is the right answer in energy diversification. [15:03.3] Explore propane's evolving agricultural applications. [00:21:34] Insights on the challenges of electrification in ag. [00:26:31] Is the U.S. presently vulnerable in energy security? [00:29:04] The importance of a holistic climate–energy conversation. [00:31:01] What does a wide path to clean energy mean? [00:36:03] Discover the new book, Path to Zero: 12 Climate Conversations to Change the World. [00:38:40] Read more here: Propane Education & Research Council: https://pr...
2024-12-0444 min
The Pacesetter PodEp90: There Are No Unsolvable Problems, Only Unaffordable SolutionsShow Highlights: Is your profit leaking due to hidden inefficiencies? [00:00:24] Unlock three key questions for your problem-solving framework. [00:02:13] How to navigate the cost–benefit dilemma. [00:04:48] The importance of practical, feasible improvements. [00:07:57] Gain a realistic approach to problem-solving. [00:08:19] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://wwaw.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-11-2711 min
The Pacesetter PodEp89: Forecasting Constraints to Enable Agribusiness GrowthShow Highlights: Follow Jim's case study, an instructive client story. [00:00:24] Discover the concept of working to constraints, not until them. [00:03:02] Strategies to optimize existing resources for maximum efficiency. [00:06:17] The importance of staying true to your processes despite the slack. [00:08:20] How to agilely monitor constraints before they emerge. [00:10:34] Advice on applying Jim's concept to your business. [00:12:10] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-11-2014 min
The Pacesetter PodEp88: Innovation Theater with Shane Thomas of Upstream AgShow Highlights: Discover Upstream Ag, the essential ag newsletter. [00:02:44] Innovation and its Red Queen race effect explained. [00:08:29] Explore the tension between innovation and certainty. [00:12:45] What is innovation culture vs. innovation theater? [00:17:14] Tell-tale signs of novelty infatuation in a business. [00:23:46] Why the revolutionary Michelin PAX tire failed. [00:28:31] Analyze John Deere's thoughtful innovation strategy with See & Spray. [00:34:04] How to ensure genuine problem-solving innovation. [00:42:45] Gain learnings from Amazon's Fire Phone failure. [00:45:12] Connect with Shane Thomas at https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanethomasag/, and to learn more about Upstream Ag, go to https://www.upstream.ag/. If you are i...
2024-11-1349 min
The Pacesetter PodEp87: Rethinking Dissension RiskShow Highlights: Introducing the MABA 2024 Outlook Conference. [00:00:25] Discover Mike Fossum, an unlikely contributor to ag. [00:01:12] What does an astronaut have to teach about dissension? [00:02:36] What if dissension isn't a threat, but an opportunity? [00:04:28] Five ways an additive vs. agitative use of dissension de-risks strategy. [00:07:01] To learn more about the Michigan Agri-Business Association (MABA), go to https://miagbiz.org/. To access the MABA 2024 Outlook Conference, please visit https://maba.swoogo.com/2024outlookconference/5536252. If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call a...
2024-11-0613 min
The Pacesetter PodEp86: Red Barns and Failure to Innovate with Joel Wipperfurth of TruterraShow Highlights: How a 100-year-old ag leader successfully applies sustainability. [00:05:07] Truterra's matchmaker role for Fortune 500 companies and farmers. [00:06:01] Can farming realities meet consumer-driven sustainability goals? [00:10:00] Why a value-first path is best trodden in agronomic advice. [00:13:22] Discover Truterra's customer-centric strategies. [00:20:00] What a really lean hog reveals about new asset classes. [00:23:37] Insights on Red Barn Farms' failure to innovate. [00:28:06] Gain valuable advice on ag market opportunities. [00:30:30] Learn more about Truterra by visiting https://www.truterraag.com. If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule...
2024-10-3034 min
The Pacesetter PodEp85: Today's Grooves Are Tomorrow's RutsShow Highlights: Find out why business success breeds its own enemy. [00:02:01] Learn to spot the end of a groove and its risks. [00:04:53] The only strategy to stop success from killing your business. [00:07:51] How reading habits obstruct your crisis readiness. [00:09:57] Do you have a trusted circle of business advisors? [00:10:43] Discover leading metrics to monitor for agribusiness continuity. [00:13:10] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-10-2316 min
The Pacesetter PodEp84: Great Millers Need Great Marketers with Tim Webster of Farmer Direct FoodsShow Highlights: How Farmer Direct Foods provides the perfect wheat. [00:02:28] Discover the benefits of regenerative agriculture. [00:07:38] Learn top product-adoption and branding strategies. [00:11:40] The importance of an operational focus in direct grower deals. [00:21:14] Explore the unique asymmetrical agreements in ag. [00:26:31] Insights on transitioning governance to an investor-led model. [00:30:34] Investing in friends and fiduciary accountability. [00:36:24] Cautionary advice on growers staying in ownership. [00:39:36] Find out how equity dilution affects farmers. [00:44:14] The power of healthy tension in an organization. [00:47:51] Visit https://www.farmerdirectfoods.com/ to learn more about Farmer Direct Foods. If you are interested in connecting with Joe...
2024-10-1656 min
The Pacesetter PodEp83: Infatuation over Validation: Falling in Love with Bad IdeasShow Highlights: How validation bias can mislead innovation. [00:00:21] Learn about the perils of singular data points. [00:02:10] Are your data sources credible and courageous? [00:04:38] The "ifs" method of confronting idea conditionality. [00:10:12] How to approach data if an idea needs a miracle to succeed. [00:15:11] Consider the ultimate benefit of challenging ideas. [00:16:37] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-10-0917 min
The Pacesetter PodEp82: Breaking Down Ag's Labor Problem with Jacqui Fatka of CoBank Knowledge ExchangeShow Highlights: Get CoBank's latest labor-market data for ag. [00:06:25] Labor-participation rates in layman's terms. [00:09:35] Is rural ag predicted to survive an aging workforce? [00:13:15] Explore automation as a solution for labor shortages. [00:18:29] Gain a fascinating generational analysis of farmers. [00:26:10] Uncover the $68T reason behind non-working men. [00:32:29] Strategies to bridge generational gaps in labor. [00:36:37] Find out potential ways to utilize Gen-Z labor. [00:40:08] How to benefit from CoBank's Knowledge Exchange. [00:46:07] To learn more about CoBank's Knowledge Exchange, go to https://www.CoBank.com/knowledge-exchange, or email Jacqui Fatka at JFatka@CoBank.com. If you are interested in connecting...
2024-10-0248 min
The Pacesetter PodEp81: The Growth as a Constraint ParadoxShow Highlights: The issue today's ag-industry headlines expose. [00:00:20] Explore the realities of limits to growth in ag. [00:01:35] Berkshire Hathaway's historical growth performance. [00:03:30] How growth has constrained Berkshire Hathaway. [00:05:46] What is the law of large numbers? [00:08:25] Gain concise growth vs. sustainability considerations. [00:11:06] Tips for a forward-thinking approach to constraints. [00:14:09] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-09-2516 min
The Pacesetter PodEp80: Winning With Speed Not Perfection with Harold Cooper of Premier Ag CooperativeShow Highlights: Discover Indiana's oldest cooperative. [00:01:53] Learn about the three divisions of a CEO's role. [00:03:47] Why military history can profit business strategy. [00:09:08] Gain strategy imperative-to-execution clarity. [00:16:29] Risk aversion vs. informed aggressiveness in ag. [00:23:01] Tips to reorient tentativeness in high-risk decisions. [00:29:06] How federated co-ops leverage local patronage. [00:36:46] Explore the technological disruptions ahead in ag. [00:39:03] To learn more about Premier Ag, go to https://premierag.com/. Visit https://premierag.com/the-high-ground-podcast-episode-recaps/ to access The High Ground Podcast by Premier Ag. If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www...
2024-09-1847 min
The Pacesetter PodEp79: Managing Negative Externality Risk in AgribusinessShow Highlights: Discover blind spots in assessing external risks. [00:00:22] Negative externalities defined with examples. [00:03:56] The three whys of missing external-risk trends. [00:09:42] Learn the 'Don't Be a Bird' tactic to fight blindness. [00:14:47] How to perform external risk analysis as a team. [00:18:12] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-09-1121 min
The Pacesetter PodEp78: Scarcity Inflates Price but Execution Creates Value with Nick Sawyer of Five Star CooperativeShow Highlights: Discover full-service Five Star Cooperative, Est. 1889. [00:03:41] Market differentiation tactics from Five Star Co-op. [00:07:32] The power of listening in service improvement. [00:14:57] How to operationalize customer feedback processing. [00:18:17] Tips to solve SKU and inventory management issues. [00:26:21] Explore the rapid tech adoption landscape in ag. [00:30:15] The Five Star approach to strategic goal alignment. [00:39:10] What should be the shelf life of strategic imperatives? [00:43:39] Learn about Five Star Cooperative at https://www.fivestarcoop.com/. Go to https://nexstarag.com/ for information onFive Star Co-op's proprietary products. If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to...
2024-09-0449 min
The Pacesetter PodEp77: Agribusiness Optimization Isn't EverythingShow Highlights: A powerful question to challenge business thinking. [00:00:24] Three vital benefits of optimization-basis discovery. [00:02:45] How to balance offense and defense in optimization. [00:05:13] Discover pro tips to validate a market need. [00:09:14] Why favor new ventures over myopic optimization? [00:12:21] Strategic evaluations you should regularly revisit. [00:15:21] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-08-2818 min
The Pacesetter PodEp76: Operationalizing Producer-First Values with Jason Weirich of MFAShow Highlights: Discover MFA Incorporated that nears $2B in sales. [00:02:38] Dive into the core of MFA's authentic producer-focus. [00:05:13] Can profitability always be aligned with core values? [00:09:42] The art of capital allocation to meet farmer interests. [00:13:51] Explore the power of multidirectional feedback loops. [00:19:55] Tips to facilitate growth with past-investment study. [00:27:51] Connect with Jason Weirich: https://mfa-inc.com/ https://www.facebook.com/MFAIncorporated https://x.com/mfa_inc If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at...
2024-08-2133 min
The Pacesetter PodEp75: Executing Agribusiness Strategy with Mosher Consulting GroupShow Highlights: Strategy execution explained with key components. [00:02:16] Why strategy execution is the power behind success. [00:06:04] Explore common barriers to executing strategy. [00:07:49] Uncover the core issue of unrealized value at risk. [00:10:43] How to avert the cost of a post-deal execution failure. [00:13:53] The five ways Mosher Consulting Group de-risks PMI. [00:18:42] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-08-1426 min
The Pacesetter PodEp74: Connecting People and Strategy with Erin Mies and Kristen Ireland of People Spark ConsultingShow Highlights: How to leverage a people-and-strategy roadmap. [00:04:21] Uncover the HR–business strategy connecting point. [00:08:40] The art of org design with Jay Galbraith's Star Model. [00:13:02] Dive into role–strategy alignment in tasks and goals. [00:15:54] Ideas to navigate uncertainty in a strategy roadmap. [00:24:29] Tips to iron out decision-making process complexity. [00:28:10] The "one butt to one seat" rule for accountability. [00:33:11] Join the People Spark mailing list. People Spark Blog: The Secret to True Business Alignment? Think Hay Bales and Stars erin@peoplesparkconsulting.com kristen@peoplesparkconsulting.com If you are interested in conne...
2024-08-0739 min
The Pacesetter PodEp73: 5 Ways to Ensure a Miserable M&A IntegrationShow Highlights: Reflect on ways to harvest Charlie Munger's wisdom. [00:00:23] Delve into the aftermath of ignoring deal rationale. [00:03:07] How a post-M&A inward focus forms customer churn. [00:04:00] What blind trust in existing capabilities does in PMI. [00:05:02] Tread a road to ruin called untracked performance. [00:07:32] Imagine rash celebrations and failure intolerance. [00:09:01] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-07-3112 min
The Pacesetter PodEp72: Agribusiness Growth Cannot Outrun Risk with Scott Cornell and Fritz Waldorf of Lockton CompaniesShow Highlights: Learn about the current challenges in ag insurance. [00:04:22] Find out why there is limited underwriting for ag. [00:06:36] How severe convective storms drive insured loss. [00:09:59] The latent potential for ag client–insurer cooperation. [00:14:23] Discover key emerging exposures in agribusiness. [00:18:51] Why agrochemical-based risks may be uninsurable. [00:22:44] Unlock optimistic industry dynamics now crystallizing. [00:28:34] https://global.lockton.com/us/en/food-agriculture-beverage; FWaldorf@lockton.com; scornell@lockton.com If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-07-2433 min
The Pacesetter PodEp71: Tailwinds Are Not Your FriendShow Highlights: Market-driven tailwinds vs. company successes. [00:03:37] How tailwinds create a business-fitness fallacy. [00:04:48] Uncover the danger of untested execution capacity. [00:06:12] Find out how tailwinds blunt business resiliency. [00:08:16] Explore the productivity born of demanding periods. [00:09:41] Understand the movement vs. velocity difference. [00:12:26] Food for thought on sustained-tailwind side effects. [00:14:15] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-07-1716 min
The Pacesetter PodEp70: Strategic & Financially Additive Agribusiness Governance with Tom OliveShow Highlights: How boards contribute and can evolve strategically. [00:09:38] Explore the four rules well-functioning boards fulfil. [00:14:28] Advisory vs. fiduciary board governance explained. [00:18:06] Dive into the key elements of a board charter. [00:24:17] Why board constituents must be strategy-derived. [00:30:23] How to recruit expertise-based board members. [00:33:06] Discover PDA for time-saving board-building. [00:36:42] Tips to apply an insider-outsider ratio to a board. [00:42:37] Find out if you're financially ready to have a board. [00:48:49] The two factors that maximize board contributions. [00:50:33] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call...
2024-07-1055 min
The Pacesetter PodEp69: The Risk of Metric Myopia and MisfiresShow Highlights: Learn about why metrics need regular revisiting. [01:38.7] How the fuel tax works, and why it doesn't. [00:03:55] Explore the problems of legacy metrics. [00:09:28] Can mileage/use-based taxation plug funding gaps? [00:10:47] Discover the effect of EVs on road tax. [00:12:34] Why the allure of simplicity induces metric pitfalls. [00:13:37] Uncover the best metric for transportation funding. [00:15:06] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-07-0319 min
The Pacesetter PodEp68: Embracing Failure to Deliver Ag Cooperative Growth with KC Graner of Central Farm ServiceShow Highlights: Explore Central Farm Service's precision ag program. [00:04:38] The role of skilled legacy talent in precision ag. [00:09:49] KC Graner's ag voyage from early interest to CFS. [00:13:25] Two strategic keys to adapt to a manager role. [00:20:15] Why numbers are a manager's post-merger friend. [00:24:37] Success lessons from initial merger unprofitability. [00:29:05] Actionable tips to improve processes through failures. [00:35:34] Pivotal ways co-ops create market links for members. [00:43:27] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-06-2648 min
The Pacesetter PodEp67: Anticipating Competitive Response is Not EnoughShow Highlights: Uncover key competitive response how-tos. [00:02:13] Find out how to design and position counteractions. [00:06:01] Why quantifying competitor-action impact matters. [00:09:13] The true benefit of planning a competitive response. [00:11:08] Dive into stealth-mode and preemptive strategies. [00:13:20] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-06-1918 min
The Pacesetter PodEp66: Focus and Agility is a Competitive Advantage with Ethan Rosen of Pure Line SeedsShow Highlights: Dive into this Pure Line Seeds 101. [00:02:59] The value of existing clients in diversification. [00:11:05] The pros and cons for independent seed companies. [00:13:58] Find out how the riches are in the niches in ag. [00:19:38] Discover the competitive edge at Pure Line Seeds. [00:23:24] Agility wisdom from Pure Line Seeds' HQ relocation. [00:28:31] The two factors most important in integration. [00:32:46] Explore how organizational change impacts people. [00:39:46] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-06-1246 minThe Pacesetter PodEp65: Is Decision-Friction Impairing Your Agribusiness?Show Highlights: Why C-suite meetings necessitate decision scopes. [00:01:27] Discover what a decision scope is. [00:04:46] The exploratory decision scope explained. [00:06:32] Strategic steps of the evaluatory decision scope. [00:08:17] How the confirmatory decision scope impacts outcomes. [00:09:51] Decision scope applications to relieve ambiguity. [00:12:38] Tips to use decision scopes to set shared objectives. [00:19:21] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-06-0522 min
The Pacesetter PodEp64: Purpose-Driven and Customer-Focused Growth with Leah Anderson of Winfield UnitedShow Highlights: Learn about the value of Land O'Lakes' co-op model. [00:04:09] Leah Anderson's instructive rise in ag from coding. [00:10:11] Impactful secrets to future-shaping leadership. [00:23:58] Polysemic "A.I." and learning agility as a leader. [00:27:58] Tips to tap into teams as a cross-sector leader. [00:31:47] Explore WinField United's prescriptive analytics. [00:37:11] Discover BioVerified that transforms biologicals. [00:42:03] Dive into WU's transactional and field-level data use. [00:42:41] How data standardization can benefit agriculture. [00:48:06] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-05-2954 min
The Pacesetter PodEp63: Six Questions on One Page: A Recipe for Better Agribusiness Focus AllocationShow Highlights: The process of project downselection explained. [00:01:27] A fictional example of project-requirement intricacy. [00:03:45] Dive into what a project charter is, and its two faults. [00:06:45] Discover the "Charter Lite" concept. [00:09:48] Unlock the six key questions Charter Lite addresses. [00:12:43] Find out the benefits of implementing Charter Lite. [00:18:21] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-05-2221 min
The Pacesetter PodEp62: Navigating the De-Commoditization of Ag with Daniel Oh of AgCertainShow Highlights: Daniel Oh's corporate throughline to AgCertain. [00:03:33] Explore the need for de-commoditization in ag. [00:09:14] Specialty economies of scale explained with examples. [00:14:15] Learn about AgCertain's B2B brand safety assurance. [00:18:13] A deep dive into trust risk over economic risk in ag. [00:24:38] How to approach organizational size as a leader. [00:32:39] Is large vs. small a true binary in company size? [00:40:52] Discover a wealth of wisdom on risk management. [00:43:21] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-05-1549 min
The Pacesetter PodEp61: What a Biologicals Product Designation Framework Can Teach Us About Agribusiness Strategy ExecutionShow Highlights: What WinField United BioVerified designation offers. [00:01:03] Dive into BioVerified's requirements and criteria. [00:03:42] Is BioVerified transferable as a strategic framework? [00:08:52] How to acquaint yourself with this simplified model. [00:12:04] Connect with Shane Thomas on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanethomasag/ and visit Upstream Ag's website : https://www.upstream.ag/ If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-05-0814 min
The Pacesetter PodEp60: Specializing in Breakthrough Seed Genetics with Dave Armstrong of Sakata Seed AmericaShow Highlights: Learn about Sakata Seed America. [00:03:01] Lessons in managing pre- and post-M&A woes. [00:08:26] Do companies defer high-value M&A opportunities? [00:13:08] Discover how a culture of success links with strategy. [00:18:36] Why executive readiness is key to strategy implementation. [00:26:55] Uncover atrophy risks and fixes in company culture. [00:29:15] Dive into the Sakata model of decentralization. [00:35:37] Get in touch with Dave: If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-05-0145 min
The Pacesetter PodEp59: Value of Optionality in Agribusiness GrowthShow Highlights: Explore strategic optionality beyond binary confines. [00:00:39] Can your chosen option actually be operationalized? [00:06:16] How to align profitability with strategic choices. [00:09:06] Discover the "execution before value" inverse. [00:11:29] Two in-depth scenario-specific optionality analyses. [00:13:10] Seize a model survey of the key optionality qualifiers. [00:19:18] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-04-2425 min
The Pacesetter PodEp58: The Danger of Buying Future Cashflows and Speculative M&A with Dave NemesShow Highlights: Distressed assets and negative goodwill explained. [00:06:51] Explore the barriers to entry in the food sector. [00:12:56] An investor model to steer chief-operator relations. [00:20:07] Delve into this in-depth overview of private equity. [00:24:05] Transaction trauma to business-owner partners in PE. [00:27:17] What is rich vs. wealthy in an investment philosophy? [00:30:46] Uncover the flaws of mass PE-playbook application. [00:36:55] How a market correction will impact PE exit values. [00:41:03] Get in touch with Dave: Email: dave@businessco.biz Website: https://www.businessco.biz/ If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://w...
2024-04-1749 min
The Pacesetter PodEp57: The Fallacy of the "Overcomplication Risk" in M&A IntegrationShow Highlights: Uncover the causes of M&A integration-stage fatigue. [00:03:20] Why you must stay rooted in the deal rationale. [00:05:56] The power of stakeholder enthusiasm in M&As. [00:07:21] Explore the defects in post-integration alignment. [00:10:23] Minimum viable integration (MVI) explained. [0013:43] Core project-management tips for M&A integration. [00:19:33] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
2024-04-1025 min
The Pacesetter PodEp56: Effective Teams De-Risk Your Agribusiness with Chris Fischer of Fusion Consultants InternationalShow Highlights: Get a high-level delineation of teams vs. workgroups. [00:10:11] Purpose-derived premises for team or group creation. [00:18:07] Unlock the framework and traits of a healthy team. [00:20:48] The leadership position of teams and groups clarified. [00:27:12] Uncover the keys to maximizing team productivity. [00:31:00] How team-model histories create future value. [00:35:01] Change-management tips for teams under leadership transitions or M&As. [00:38:23] The art of intervening as a leader in team storming. [00:42:06] The power of intentionality in leadership training. [00:46:57] Get in touch with Chris: Website: https://fusionconsults.com Email: Drcmfischer@gmail.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com...
2024-04-0351 min
The Pacesetter PodEp55: Your Agribusiness Cannot Afford Focus-DeficiencyIn this episode of The Pacesetter Pod with Joe Mosher, we delve into the critical issue of focus within agribusiness. Host Joe Mosher shares a compelling story of a well-capitalized organization and how its abundance of resources highlighted the destructive nature of a lack of focus. He emphasizes that the biggest constraint in business is not capital, but rather focus, and provides insights into how to improve focus within an organization. From the importance of good strategy work to considering operating systems and processes, Joe offers practical advice for building the focus muscle to drive successful execution.
2024-03-2723 min
The Pacesetter PodEp54: Breaking Down Dairy: Sector Dynamics, U.S. Dominance, and Market Outlook with Corey Geiger of CoBankWelcome to The Pacesetter Pod. In this latest installment, your host Joe Mosher sits down with Corey Geiger, a prominent figure in agribusiness intelligence, for a comprehensive discussion on the U.S. dairy industry's strategic position within the global market. Episode 54 will navigate through the industry's significant growth, the U.S.' pivotal role as an export power player, and the socioeconomic factors influencing dairy trends worldwide. Corey lends his expertise to analyze the complexities of global trade, Europe's specialty product shift, and the burgeoning markets rising in Eastern Europe. Listen in as we confront the current...
2024-03-2044 min
The Clarity Advisors Show85 Joe Mosher -- Mergers and acquisitions in the agribusiness sectorMergers and acquisitions -- or M&A, as it's known -- is common in most industries, but one area people don't often think about for M&A is agriculture. Today's guest, Joe Mosher, is founder of the Mosher Consulting Group, which specializes in helping agribusinesses execute on their mergers and acquisitions.On this episode of The Clarity Advisors Show, Joe shares with host Ken Trupke his thoughts on avoiding common merger problems and what he learned about leading teams from his time in corporate America.Timestamps(00:53): How Mosher Co...
2024-03-1936 min
The Pacesetter PodEp53: The Big Problem with Big ProblemsIn this episode of The Pacesetter Pod, host Joe Mosher tackles the real issues facing agribusiness leaders. Through a captivating real-life example, Joe reveals how businesses grapple with identifying and addressing entrenched challenges. Join Joe as he takes a practical approach to unraveling complex problems, offering insights into leveraging data, optimizing processes, and engaging with key stakeholders. Discover how a structured and methodical approach can unlock hidden opportunities for growth and efficiency. Tune in to gain practical strategies for navigating common hurdles in the agribusiness landscape. Show Highlights: Key challenges to identifying th...
2024-03-1321 min
The Pacesetter PodEp52: Building Moats by Mastering Complexity with Tyler Hull of AgriCaptureWelcome back to The Pacesetter Pod, folks! In this riveting episode, we're venturing into the innovative world of agritech with Tyler Hull, president of AgriCapture. Agriculture meets cutting-edge technology as we explore how today's farmers are harnessing the power of sustainability to fuel their livelihoods and our planet's health. Together with Tyler, we'll untangle the complexities of carbon markets, decode the buzz around carbon offsets, insets, and reveal how climate-conscious practices can enrich both the soil and the farmer's pocket. So tune in and let's explore the greener side of farming where every sprout counts, and where i...
2024-03-0648 min
The Pacesetter PodEp51: Driving Agribusiness Strategy with Organizational DesignWelcome to The Pacesetter Pod, where we delve into the world of mergers and acquisitions in the agribusiness industry. In today's episode, our host Joe Mosher discusses the often overlooked complexities of organizational design in businesses. Joe reveals the common pitfalls and misconceptions surrounding organization design, emphasizing the need for a strategic approach derived from the company's operating model and overall strategy. He highlights the critical steps businesses must take to ensure their design efforts align with their goals and provide tangible value. If you're navigating organizational challenges in your company, this episode is a mu...
2024-02-2822 min
The Pacesetter PodEp50: Understanding Status Quo Risk in Ag with Jim Schweigert of Gro AllianceWelcome to the 50th episode of The Pacesetter Pod! I'm your host, Joe Mosher, and today we're delving into the dynamic world of agribusiness with a very special guest, Jim Schweigert, President of Gro Alliance. We're unpacking the rich history and insightful strategies behind Gro Alliance's transformation from a family-run seed business to a powerhouse in seed supply-chain solutions. In this episode, we'll explore the crucial period of consolidation in the seed industry, the strategic shifts that have helped secure the future of independent companies, and the courageous decisions that have propelled Gro Alliance forward. W...
2024-02-2154 min
The Pacesetter PodEp49: The Problem with a Strong Balance SheetGet ready for a thought-provoking episode of The Pacesetter Pod as host Joe Mosher uncovers the untold story of balance-sheet management's impact on business growth. Joe reveals the surprising complexities behind maintaining a strong balance sheet. With his expertise in agribusiness, Joe explores the delicate equilibrium between risk aversion and seizing growth opportunities. Buckle up for an eye-opening conversation that challenges assumptions and provides valuable insights on leveraging balance-sheet strength for business expansion. Show Highlights: What is the true purpose of a balance sheet? [00:02:12] Learn how excessive cash cushioning can stall growth [00:05:08] Fi...
2024-02-1416 min
The Pacesetter PodEp48: The Downside of a Bull Market with Jeff BlairToday, host Joe Mosher sits with Jeff Blair, a titan in agribusiness and the strategic mind behind Greenpoint AG. They'll navigate the treacherous waters of a bull market, exposing the lesser-seen consequences for supply chains and growth sustainability. Will the agricultural industry withstand the rigors of success? Join us as Jeff sheds light on blending agility with strategy amidst market highs and the relentless pursuit of innovation that keeps the farmer's pocket in focus. Tune in for an episode packed with insights you can't afford to miss—right here on The Pacesetter Pod. Show...
2024-02-0748 min
The Pacesetter PodEp47: Effective Ag Leaders Grab Shovels, Not SticksIn today's episode, Joe takes a bold leap into the realm of leadership and organizational behavior as he explores the concept of an ownership mindset in the agribusiness world. Learn from real-life examples and discover the four key behaviors that set apart exceptional ag industry leaders. From future focus to productive skepticism, join us as we challenge top executives to assess their own demonstration of an ownership mindset. If you're ready to unlock the secrets of effective leadership in the agribusiness sector, tune in now. Show Highlights: Explore real-life issues of an owne...
2024-01-3119 min