Shane Johnson: Family-First Leadership in Agribusiness

The Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast

In this episode, Mark Jewell sits down with Shane Johnson, VP of Agronomy at United Cooperative, to discuss what it means to lead intentionally in the ever-changing agribusiness industry. Shane shares insights from his 17-year career in agriculture, including strategies for team development, navigating industry challenges, and maintaining a family-first leadership culture. From training young agronomists to tackling negativity during tough economic times, Shane’s leadership approach is both inspiring and practical.

Key Takeaways:

• Intentional Leadership Defined:
• Shane emphasizes setting a clear path and moving forward with purpose, even amidst the curveballs of agribusiness.
• Family-First Leadership Culture:
• At United Cooperative, Shane prioritizes work-life balance, encouraging his team to put family first, even during busy seasons. This culture contributes to strong retention rates and a positive work environment.
• Navigating Transitions:
• Shane’s shift from agronomist to leader was natural, thanks to his focus on mentorship and building relationships. He encourages leaders to learn from mentors and surround themselves with people who challenge them to grow.
• Training the Next Generation:
• United Cooperative invests heavily in young seller training, focusing on agronomic knowledge, sales techniques, and building confidence to overcome objections.
• Staying Positive in Tough Times:
• Despite current challenges like lower commodity prices and higher input costs, Shane urges his team to stay focused on opportunities and avoid falling into negativity.

Notable Quotes:

• “When this career is over, all we have is our family in the end.” – Shane Johnson
• “You can’t cut your way to prosperity; you have to yield your way to prosperity.” – Shane Johnson
• “Where your focus goes, your energy flows.” – Mark Jewell
• “The times I’ve been most resentful are when I’ve been the least intentional.” – Mark Jewell

Practical Leadership Insights:

1. Surround Yourself with Strong Leaders:

• Learn from mentors and peers who challenge and inspire you.

1. Focus on Family:

• Building a family-first culture can improve retention and team morale.

1. Invest in Training:

• Regular training for young staff ensures they’re equipped with the skills and confidence needed to succeed.

1. Adopt a Positive Mindset:

• Avoid getting caught in negativity cycles, even during difficult market conditions.

1. Embrace Technology:

• Use automation and the latest tools to increase operational efficiency and support team success.

Stay intentional, stay focused, and let your leadership create a positive ripple effect in the lives of others.