Shows
The Pacesetter PodEp150: The Anniversary Episode - Mosher Consulting Group Celebrates 5 Years!Show Highlights: Celebrating 150 episodes and Mosher Consulting Group's 5-year milestone. [00:46] The need for periodic recalibration of perceptions of risk. [04:15] Is job stability a buffer or a hidden liability? [05:52] Why business planning is futile yet imperative. [09:42] How planning drives clarity and rigorous thinking. [10:57] Embrace uncertainty for opportunity hiding in plain sight. [18:21] Failing and learning fast vs. overoptimizing for certainty. [21:51] Authentic, non-extractive business relationship value. [26:05] Meaningful impacts revealed by our podcast stats. [32:40] The four lessons of this episode in the podcast's journey. [35:22] If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com...
2026-01-2140 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 min
The 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 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
The Pacesetter PodEp46: Vintage 3 AgTech and the Power of Curiosity with Alexander ReichertGet ready to ignite your curiosity with a journey into the heart of AgTech. This week, host Joe Mosher welcomes Alexander Reichert, the trailblazing CEO maneuvering through the fields of innovation and the gritty realities of modern agriculture. In this episode, we're peeling back the layers of what it truly takes to transform the age-old industry from the ground up! Tune in as we challenge the status quo, embrace the incremental victories, and learn why sometimes the most impactful changes are those that constructively catalyze rather than disrupt. Tune in now. Show...
2024-01-2457 min
The Pacesetter PodEp45: The Return of Rationality in Agribusiness M&AIn this episode, Joe uncovers the seeds of success for companies looking to flourish through mergers and acquisitions. From navigating economic uncertainties to mastering the fine art of due diligence, we're plowing through the essential how-tos for agribusiness prosperity in 2024 and beyond. Tune in now. Show Highlights: 2020-2023 food and ag sectors' market trends in review [00:03:31] Here's what to expect in 2024 [00:09:24] The role of due diligence through two lenses [00:11:22] Five focus areas for 2024 as a buyer, seller, or other [00:15:15] Get a deep dive into process beyond due diligence [00:18:24] How to prepare for th...
2024-01-1730 min
The Pacesetter PodEp44: Building Bridges to Growth with Mike TaylorOn this episode, host Joe Mosher sits down with Mike Taylor, the investment maestro turning heads in the private equity world. From sprawling Midwest farmlands to the pinnacle of a $170 million fund, Mike's tale is one of grit, growth, and seizing the golden grains of opportunity in agribusiness. Tune in as we crack open the playbook on how Midwest Growth Partners is redefining partnerships and fueling market transformations. You're about to discover the insider secrets that are cultivating prosperity in rural economies today. Show Highlights: Get a high-level outline of wha...
2024-01-1043 min
The Pacesetter PodEp43: Ag Strategy Through the Windshield: 5 Way to Enhance your MetricsIn today's episode, Joe uncovers the secrets to agribusiness success in the new year. Discover how to enhance your metrics and redefine success with five powerful strategies that will revolutionize the way you measure performance. From breaking free of traditional performance models to aligning metrics with your business strategy, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice that will propel your agribusiness to new heights. Tune in for a game-changing episode that will set the stage for a year of prosperity and growth. Show Highlights: Discover the untold power of business m...
2024-01-0318 min
The Pacesetter PodEp42: Ag Strategy Through the Rearview: Assessing Your Agribusiness PerformanceIn this episode, join host Joe Mosher as he takes a closer look into the world of agribusiness performance assessment. Discover the secrets to unlocking a comprehensive view of your company's trajectory, uncovering unexpected surprises, and assessing the transformative changes your business has undergone. Joe's insightful guidance will empower you to navigate the complexities of agribusiness with confidence and precision, setting the stage for a successful year ahead. Don't miss out on this exploration of agribusiness performance on The Pacesetter Pod! Show Highlights: The first item to tackle in your rearview analysis [00:03:26...
2023-12-2717 min
The Pacesetter PodEp40: Untapped Potential: Managing Ag Strategy as a Portfolio of OpportunitiesIn this episode, Joe discusses portfolio management, a practice often overlooked in agribusiness despite its widespread success in other industries. Joe explores the definition, key benefits, and common areas where portfolio management can be applied. He also addresses the barriers to adopting this practice and highlights its potential for driving strategy execution and improving business performance. Whether a seasoned agribusiness professional or just starting out, this episode will equip you with valuable insights to manage your agribusiness strategy as a portfolio of opportunities. Show Highlights: Why you need more than a strategy...
2023-12-1328 min
The Pacesetter PodEp39: Overcoming M&A Integration Challenges and Complexity with Colin SteenOn today's episode, Joe is chatting with Colin Steen, CEO of Legacy AgriPartners. He shares some great insights on the challenges and complexities often encountered during M&A integration and strategies to overcome them. Colin will guide us through the crucial aspects of strategic alignment, effective go-to-market strategies, and the importance of considering the perspectives of frontline employees and customers during M&A transitions. Tune in to this insightful discussion and gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies of M&A in agribusiness. Show Highlights: How venture capital shapes the agribusiness landscape [00:02:18] Th...
2023-12-0652 min
The Pacesetter PodEp38: Healthy Soil Creates the Conditions for Successful StrategyIn this episode, Joe discusses the conditions or nutrients that make up the 'healthy soil' needed for growing your company in a competitive market. Join us as we explore the perspectives, motives, and insights for successful mergers and acquisitions and reveal the three key conditions contributing to effective strategy execution. From having a clear point of view to the importance of avoiding absolute confidence, we'll uncover the nutrients needed to cultivate a bountiful and sustainable growth trajectory. So, enjoy this front-row seat to learning robust, intentional strategies for successful outcomes in today's episode of The...
2023-11-2921 min
The Pacesetter PodEp37: The Domestic Ag Implications of Uneven Global Growth with Tanner EhmkeIn this week's episode, our guest is Tanner Ehmke from Cobank, which is one of the leading members of the farm Credit system and the largest agricultural lender in the United States. Joe and Tanner discuss global growth patterns, focusing on China's decelerating growth, and how it impacts agricultural businesses. They will explore how the industry shifts to the opportunities in Southeast Asia and cope with the interplay of economics and cultural traditions in the diverse Indian market. They will also cover the challenges in the agricultural industry and the strategic agility required to seize for...
2023-11-2238 min
The Pacesetter PodEp36: Buy vs. Build: Is M&A Right for your Agribusiness?In this episode, Joe explores a fundamental question that often arises for businesses considering M&A: Is it the right move for your company? Join us as we break down the key factors to consider and provide insights that will help you determine if M&A is the right strategy for your business. From economic conditions and industry trends to innovation and investment, we'll guide you through the decision-making process. So, whether you're new to the world of M&A or a seasoned executive, get ready for an enlightening discussion that will help you...
2023-11-1520 min
The Pacesetter PodEp35: Episodic Strategy and Continuous Execution with Brad MorrillIn today's episode, Joe will be diving into the fascinating world of energy. Often overlooked but essential to our daily lives, energy plays a critical role in powering our society and economy. Today, Joe is joined by special guest Brad Morrill, Chief Customer Experience Officer at Crystal Flash. They explore the crucial connection between strategy and execution within companies and how it impacts their success. Stay tuned for an engaging conversation about the challenges and opportunities in the energy sector and beyond. Let's get started! Show Highlights: Why is energy so fascinating and...
2023-11-0848 min
The Pacesetter PodEp34: Simplified Succession Planning to Sow Agribusiness SuccessIn this episode, join us as we explore the pressing issue of succession planning and its far-reaching impact on companies of all sizes. From struggling through the complexities of leadership transitions to overcoming barriers and pitfalls, Joe brings you the expert advice and strategies you need to succeed. Discover how succession planning can bring stability and continuity to your business, while engaging your talented team and creating opportunities for growth. Plus, learn why timing is everything when it comes to effective succession planning, and why waiting until the last minute can be a costly mistake. Tu...
2023-11-0128 min
The Pacesetter PodEp31: Create Markets Don't Chase Them with Jeff Van PevenageJumping into new markets is quite difficult… It's like walking in a dark, abandoned cave, not knowing what scary thing will pop up next. So it's crucial that you have someone that can guide you through the unknown path… Someone that knows the ins and outs of the market. Otherwise you're left to figure things out on your own wasting valuable years. Not only having someone guide you makes the whole process easier, but also virtually guarantees your success. Join us in this episode as CEO Of Columbia Grain Inte...
2023-10-1141 min
The Pacesetter PodEp30: The Best Decisions Don't Run From Risk, They Build Off ItAs a leader, you must make decisions. The problem is you need to make the decisions before you have all the necessary information. Delaying your decision makes your team question your leadership skills. But deciding too quickly can cause irreversible damage to your agribusiness, your team, and even your family. So, how do you make smarter decisions when they're soaked in elevated risk? In today's show, you'll discover my 4 favorite "decision-making risk hacks" that prevent you from making costly decisions (without drowning you in indecision). Listen now. Show highlights inclu...
2023-10-0420 min
The Pacesetter PodEp29: Supply Disruptions are Demand Opportunities with Ken DallmierAgribusiness was about being the best supplier of calories in the past. But with the global supply of food getting much more competitive, you either have to enter a price war or distinguish your offer to cater to different types of consumers. And while the other sectors in the economy have become experts in meeting specific demands in the market, the agribusiness space still lags far behind. On the other hand, there is a lot of untapped potential to grow your agribusiness that may even be on par with M&A integration.
2023-09-2738 min
The Pacesetter PodEp28: Three Questions you Cannot Afford NOT to AskThe difference between a successful M&A that excites your team, grows your revenue, and creates a better experience for your customers… And a failed one where you invest tons of capital and time and energy for nothing comes down to asking 3 simple questions. Why? Because M&As are exciting for your team. But this excitement, while healthy in doses, can become lethal if it's unjustified. Asking these 3 key questions not only prevents you from wasting your time, energy, and capital, but it also ensures that your leadership team is aligned and convicted in t...
2023-09-2017 min
The Pacesetter PodEp27: Safety Performance is Business Performance with Marc MearsNo plan survives first contact with the enemy. While this saying has its roots in the military, it applies perfectly to your business. As a business leader, you may be well prepared if a plan doesn't work, and have alternative ideas you can implement. But it's easy to lose track of the decisions other people in your business make. And if they can't get your opinion before they act, mistakes are unavoidable. Since you can't develop decision making skills overnight, your people need principles to anchor every decision around.
2023-09-1330 min
The Pacesetter PodEp26: Effective Leaders Compete with the Competition, Not Each OtherThe most popular definition of leadership alignment is a fine line between productive dissent and aiding your team to operate as a group. But like it is with most "soft" skills, no one will come to you and brief you on the state of your leadership alignment, and whether you need to change something. Unresolved differences within your group may lead to competitiveness and people pointing their fingers at each other when under pressure. And nothing will stress test your team more than an M&A integration. Fortunately, it's simple to...
2023-09-0623 min
The Pacesetter PodEp25: Future-Proofing your Agribusiness with Garrett StoergerThe best company you can acquire is often not the most successful. Instead, it's more important to assess how well the seller prepares the exit. This may sound obvious, but most M&A integrations fail because the buyer or the seller underestimate what it takes to mold a business, so it fits into the new ecosystem. No transition will be seamless, but there are many factors that influence the success of integrating a business into another. And the best way to figure out if an integration is worth pursuing, is by...
2023-08-3053 min
The Pacesetter PodEp24: Overcoming the Heavy Lift of M&A Cultural IntegrationAn M&A integration may fail if you ignore the culture of the company you acquire. A business may have a similar offer in the same market as you, which makes them an excellent candidate to integrate into your organization. But they might've got successful in a different way than you. And not figuring out these differences may draw out the integration process, increasing the risk of failure. On the bright side, including culture in your integration plan helps you improve your own company's culture by getting insight on how another...
2023-08-2321 min
The Pacesetter PodEp23: Executing Ag Strategy with Steve BecraftOne of the fatal mistakes agribusinesses make is focusing their strategy around their margins. Yes, it's true that your business depends on the value it creates in the economy. But some of the best strategic decisions you can make may stunt your short-term earnings. That's okay, because they lay the foundation for much higher returns right after that. How? By giving the people in your business more leeway to fail. It sounds scary, but this is how you unlock unprecedented growth in your agribusiness. And the quickest way to...
2023-08-1635 min
The Pacesetter PodEp18: Three Proven Ways to Destroy M&A ValueM&A integration is not fair. It demands excellence from you as a leader and your team. But it also weakens your company during the integration process. You need enough reserves to cover potential drawbacks, and flawless communication with your team, while you get across your company culture to a mass of new people. The sheer amount of questions you'll have to answer means that an M&A integration will never meet your expectations. But it doesn't have to. Making your M&A integration plan "not fail" i...
2023-07-1218 min
The Pacesetter PodEp17: Ag is an Outdoor Sport with Brett BellMost CEOs don't realize the magnitude of effects their change plan has on the organization, and create more problems than they try to solve. When your business goes through major change, it's in your best interest to ensure that the day-to-day processes don't suffer from it. And your people perform worse when you implement a new idea, if you don't have the right system in place to manage the change. Why? Because the change process appears mechanical, as if the people matter less than your objectives. But, there is...
2023-07-0532 min
The Pacesetter PodEp16: Introducing the Integration Pacesetter™There is a certain bias that makes almost all M&A integrations fail. Most CEOs think they need to make the integration as short as possible, so they avoid eroding their company's assets. And While it's important to burn as little cash as you possibly can, this is also where things go wrong. Why? You minimize the risk of losing economic substance before you land the deal - not after. Because integrating a company into your ecosystem is like starting a car: . Abrupt acceleration leads to accidents.
2023-06-2818 min
The Pacesetter PodEp15: The Dual-Mandate of Agribusiness LeadershipWhat is the goal of your business? The obvious answer for a business leader is profit. And you achieve profit by growing your business. But this is where things get tricky if your business outgrows you. Why? Because every business confronts you with the Federal Reserve's dual-mandate. The Fed wants the economy to grow, but growth mustn't outpace the productivity behind it. And while competition pushes your business to fast growth. The true winner aligns growth with productivity. M&A integration is t...
2023-06-2121 min
The Pacesetter PodEp14: Setting the Tone for M&A Excellence on Day OneA CEO is like a general. If you acquire a company, you also take responsibility for a legion of new employees. And if you don't gain the loyalty of your followers, like a bad general, your M&A will fail. In fact, this is one of the most underrated risks for an M&A integration. In the eyes of the people, you're someone who changed a comfortable status quo. And the longer your employees are wary of you, the less likely your plan succeeds. Fortunately, there are 4 w...
2023-06-1421 min
The Pacesetter PodEp13: The Bull Case for Agribusiness M&AWith expected farm income taking a nosedive, and the highest borrowing costs in over a decade, agriculture seems to be on the ropes. By this logic, we could expect less mergers and acquisitions in the industry, but reality seems far different. Seasoned investors are seizing the opportunity to get ahead of their hesitant competitors. Why? They understand the current risks and - more importantly - the long-term chances in agribusiness. They know how they can use the demographic shift in the industry to their advantage, and which segments in the market offer the...
2023-06-0718 min
The Pacesetter PodEp12: What The Airlines Can Teach You About M&A Communications The success of your M&A integration hinges on your communication with all parties involved. Yet despite having best practices, communication templates, and literature on successful communications, we tend to fall short, especially when it comes to the folks whose stability gets upended by an M&A. I've recently experienced something like this when a blizzard delayed my flight home by 48 hours. At first, the airlines gave me a masterclass in communication, until, well, they ran out of solutions, and I had to book my flights home myself. The same exact thing happens when yo...
2023-05-3124 min
The Pacesetter PodEp11: Do you Know your M&A "IRR"?The average M&A transaction has TEN THOUSAND individual, unique, and crucial decisions to make. Some of these include: How long is this going to take? How do we avoid making stupid decisions? How do we avoid wasting our time and/or money? And these are only 3 of 10,000 decisions you have to make. That's only 0.03% of the decisions you need to make! Undertaking an M&A without knowing the answers to these questions BEFORE you start is why most acquirers feel underwhelmed by their deal. So, how can you increase the chances of a...
2023-05-2423 min
The Pacesetter PodEp10: How a "Fire Fighter" Mentality Is Hurting Your Agri-businessBeing a "fire-fighter" works — until it doesn't. If you're just tackling reds right in front of you, you're thinking in the short-term, and you're not improving as you go. But there's a better way. And it's called working on capability. It makes your business easier, quicker, faster, and generates bigger, proven, and repeatable results for your business. And in today's episode, I reveal how capability can help scale your business. Listen now! Show Highlights Include: Why the "Get The Job Done" mentality materializes in 2 harmful trade-offs for y...
2023-05-1718 min
The Pacesetter PodEp09: How to Stick the Landing when Closing your M&A IntegrationM&A is not a box-ticking exercise. Merely "completing" the tasks in your integration is not the same as closing your integration. And if you don't close your integration 100%? The feelings of dread, anxiety, and eternal despair never leave. Your half-complete integration will always be there, just lingering in the background. Nobody wants to talk about it, but everybody is fed up with it. Morale is destroyed. Employees are sick of dealing with multiple CRM's and processes. And there's no feeling of, "we did it. It's over." But there's a...
2023-05-1020 min
The Pacesetter PodEp08: M&A Integrations Age Like Bread, Not WineIntegrations that take longer than a year bankrupt your company. Why? Well, there's a few reasons, but nothing is as detrimental as this: Instead of focusing on strategy, senior leaders have now spent an entire year on integration. They've lost focus of what's important. That's why completing your integration in a timely manner is essential to your success. And in today's episode, I reveal how to undertake an integration in less than a year. Listen now! Show Highlights Include: Ask yourself these 22 questions to sha...
2023-05-0322 min
The Pacesetter PodEp07: Getting your Agri-business Primed for Growth with ProcessStoring processes in the minds of your senior leaders is a huge risk for your business. What would happen to your firm if those leaders leave the company? You don't have to imagine, I'll tell you: Essential knowledge is lost, leaving the rest of the organization without clear direction or guidance. This results in confusion, mistakes, and decreased efficiency. Not only that, it leaves your company vulnerable to foreign attack. If your senior leaders are poached by the competition, they can easily "steal" your current processes — and you've lost the ability to function as...
2023-04-2621 min
The Pacesetter PodEp06: Winning Agribusiness M&A with an Integration MindsetWhen it comes to integrations, your mindset produces results. This is a simple, observable fact. Yet leaders of the 70-90% of acquisitions that fail kneel at the altar of "budget management", have a scarcity mindset, and fall prey to worthless data. Worst part? Senior leaders start to spin their wheels. They agonize over tiny, incremental decisions that have no impact on the broader picture. The energy and motivation on Day 1 of the acquisition simmers down. Employees from all parts of the business start feeling the effects of a poorly integrated M&A. And...
2023-04-1917 min
The Pacesetter PodEp05: Don't Run your Integration Like You Run your BusinessAOL & Time Warner (2001) — $65 billion loss. Daimler-Benz & Chrysler (1998) — $36 billion loss. Google & Motorola (2012) — $12.5 billion loss. These behemoths all failed when trying to integrate. Why? There are many reasons, but the biggest one is because they tried to run their integration like they ran their business. With 70-90% of integrations flat out failing, you can't follow what you've always done. An integration is not like running a business — integrations are temporary, timebound, and extremely flexible. Running your M&A integration like a business causes your customers to flock to your competit...
2023-04-1221 min
The Pacesetter PodEp04: Less is More in Agribusiness M&A: The Minimum Viable IntegrationAn M&A with multiple objectives is a great way to fail. Diluted focus poisons the effectiveness when acquiring a business. To cover the costs of trying to integrate everything, profits are depleted instead of being used to grow the business. IT, finance, accounting, operations, logistics, and sales and marketing are all strained when a business bites more than it can chew. So, how do we avoid taking on more than we can handle? In today's episode, I reveal the "Minimum Viable Integration." It's a tool you can use to gauge...
2023-04-0520 min
The Pacesetter PodEp03: How to Create Customer Value during M&A IntegrationMost M&A integrations destroy more value than they create. They do this by asking these irrelevant questions: How do we sustain our culture? How do we put our new portfolio, products, and services into the market? How do we understand our margins and profitability? These questions are a complete waste of time, energy, and money compared to the life-or-death element of an M&A: your customers. Because when you treat your customers like an Egyptian Deity, the chances of your M&A integration succeeding skyrockets. In today's episode, I reveal the Egyptian...
2023-03-2919 min
The Pacesetter PodEp02: Winning M&A integrations ask why, then howWhen you try to do everything, you achieve nothing. The biggest mistake I see food and agribusiness companies making is having multiple reasons why they're executing an M&A. Sounds weird, right? Why would you want to limit yourself to only one reason why? By not having a concrete why, you face very low odds of getting the integration right. If the integration fails, the deal fails. And if the deal fails, then the consequences are catastrophic: Your employee and customer confidence erodes Your credibility as a leader is crushed You lose ground to...
2023-03-2219 min
The Pacesetter PodEp01: Why We Do M&A In Agribusiness And Why They FailMergers & acquisitions (M&As) often destroy more value than they create. Statistically speaking, it's a safer bet to invest all your time in creating a new business, as opposed to executing an M&A. According to Harvard Business Review, Between 70 and 90% of M&As fail. Why? Because they don't have a proven process, especially one that takes into account the integration AFTER the initial M&A has occurred. But if you follow a proven process, you can unlock accelerated growth for your food and agribusiness company. And that's what I reveal...
2023-03-1526 min