Coffee in the Barn

Send us a text

In this deeply moving episode of Coffee in the Barn, host Casey Bradley welcomes Adrienne Woodward, a leader at United Animal Health, to share her remarkable journey as a senior figure in the swine industry and a cancer survivor. Adrienne’s story is one of resilience and strength, detailing how her battle with cancer has shaped her leadership, life, and passion for helping others.

Adrienne’s background is both diverse and inspiring. Growing up in Texas as a self-proclaimed “horse girl,” she studied equine sciences at West Texas A&M University. Her career took an unexpected turn toward the swine industry, where she flourished professionally. However, her diagnosis with cancer was a pivotal life event.

Key Takeaways from Adrienne’s Journey:

1. Strength in Vulnerability: Adrienne explains how embracing vulnerability helped her manage her fears during cancer treatment and as a leader. "It’s not about being fearless; it’s about feeling the fear and moving forward." This openness influences her leadership approach, where she now values transparency and humanity.
2. Compassionate Leadership: After her treatment, Adrienne reflects on how her illness enhanced her empathy as a leader. She now prioritizes understanding both the professional and personal challenges of her team members, fostering a culture of support.
3. Balancing Career and Health: Adrienne shares the difficulties of managing a demanding career while undergoing treatment. She credits her support system, both at work and at home, for maintaining balance, reinforcing the importance of self-care and delegation.
4. Adaptability in the Face of Uncertainty: Cancer taught Adrienne the unpredictability of life. She encourages adaptability and resilience, stating, "You can’t control everything, but you can control how you respond."
5. Diversity and Inclusion: Adrienne discusses how her experiences have reinforced her commitment to diversity and inclusion. As a leader at United Animal Health, she promotes an environment where every voice is heard, emphasizing trust and respect for diverse perspectives.
6. Mentorship's Impact: Adrienne has mentored many throughout her career. "Mentorship isn’t just about professional growth; it’s about personal growth as well," she says, highlighting the critical role mentorship plays, especially for women entering male-dominated industries.
7. Navigating a Male-Dominated Industry: Adrienne recalls how she overcame imposter syndrome and the evolution of the industry, where more women are now taking leadership roles.
8. The Legacy of Cancer: Adrienne concludes with a reflection on how cancer continues to shape her life and career. "Cancer doesn’t just go away; it leaves a mark," she says, but that mark is a reminder of her strength.

This episode is a testament to resilience, compassion, and leadership. Adrienne’s story will resonate with anyone who has faced adversity and emerged stronger.

Support the show

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn:
@cofeeinthebarn

Send us a text

In this heartfelt episode of "Coffee in the Barn," host Casey Bradley engages in a profound conversation with Ashley Drake, a prominent figure in the poultry industry and a true leader at Novus International. Ashley’s journey is one of dedication, courage, and an unwavering commitment to leading with humanity. Over her 18-year career, she has risen through the ranks in a male-dominated field, not just by her professional acumen but through the deep connections and genuine care she shows for her colleagues and team members.

Ashley reflects on her early days in the industry, where women were a rare presence, and how she navigated these challenges with the support of strong mentors, including men who believed in the potential of women in leadership. Her story is a testament to the power of not shying away from opportunities and embracing the unknown with determination and courage.

Key learnings from this episode include:

• The Power of Human Connection: Ashley emphasizes the importance of empathy, understanding, and the human element in leadership. She shares how these traits are crucial not only in building strong teams but also in creating a supportive work environment that fosters growth and resilience.
• Navigating a Male-Dominated Industry: Ashley discusses her experiences as a woman in the poultry industry, highlighting the changes she has witnessed over the years and offering insights into how the industry is evolving to be more inclusive.
• The Importance of Mentorship: Ashley attributes much of her success to the guidance she received from mentors. She shares how seeking out mentors, including those from different parts of the business, has been instrumental in her career growth.
• Balancing Career and Personal Life: With humor and honesty, Ashley talks about the choices and sacrifices she has made, particularly around work-life balance. She shares strategies for maintaining boundaries, such as turning off work notifications, and the importance of having a supportive partner.
• Embracing Diversity and Cultural Differences: Ashley's experience working in global companies has enriched her understanding of different cultures and perspectives. She advocates for embracing these differences and highlights the respect and learning that comes from working with diverse teams.
• The Role of Women in Leadership: Through initiatives like "The Flock" at Novus, Ashley is actively involved in empowering women in the poultry industry. She shares the impact of these programs on fostering leadership and creating a supportive network for women.
• Overcoming Impostor Syndrome: Ashley candidly discusses her struggles with impostor syndrome and offers advice on focusing on one's strengths rather than perceived weaknesses.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, the poultry industry, or personal growth. Ashley’s journey will inspire you to lead with compassion, embrace challenges, and always remember the human side of every professional interaction.

Support the show

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn:
@cofeeinthebarn

Send us a text

In Episode 28 of Coffee in the Barn, we continue our exploration of work-life balance with a special guest, Kacee Bohle, who delivered a keynote speech and led the Working Genius workshop at the recent Elevate Women in Ag event. Kacee, a seasoned coach and speaker with deep roots in the agriculture industry, shares her journey from job-hopping and burnout to finding her passion in coaching and helping others navigate the often-overwhelming demands of balancing professional growth with personal life.

Kacee discusses her background, growing up on a fourth-generation farm in Indiana, and how her experiences shaped her understanding of work-life balance. She highlights the importance of aligning your work with your personal values and the season of life you're in, offering practical advice on how to manage competing priorities. Kacee debunks the myth of a perfect 50-50 work-life balance, advocating instead for a dynamic approach where you allocate your time, energy, and attention to the right things at the right times.

Throughout the episode, Kacee emphasizes the significance of mindset shifts, such as recognizing that you don't have to do it all yourself, and the value of outsourcing or delegating tasks to maintain a healthy balance. She also introduces the Working Genius model, a tool that helps individuals and teams understand their strengths and how to utilize them effectively, both at work and at home.

Listeners will find Kacee’s insights both relatable and actionable, as she shares how these strategies have not only transformed her own life but also the lives of those she coaches. Whether you're struggling with the demands of a busy career in agriculture or simply looking to find better balance in your life, this episode offers valuable lessons on how to achieve both personal and professional fulfillment.

Key Learnings:

• Understanding the myth of a perfect work-life balance and how to find a dynamic equilibrium that works for you.
• The importance of aligning your work with your personal values and current life circumstances.
• Strategies for outsourcing, delegating, and prioritizing tasks to maintain a healthy balance.
• Insights into the Working Genius model and how it can help you and your team work more effectively by focusing on natural strengths.

Support the show

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn:
@cofeeinthebarn

Send us a text

In Episode 27 of Coffee in the Barn, we continue our conversation about the remarkable Elevate Women in Ag event with Kaylee Keppy McDonell from ZinPro, who played a pivotal role in organizing this groundbreaking gathering at the World Pork Expo. Last week, Casey and Morgan shared their initial thoughts and highlights, but the event was so impactful that we couldn’t stop there.

This first-of-its-kind event aimed to empower women in the agriculture industry by creating a vibrant platform for dialogue, support, and networking. Kaylee dives deeper into the inspiration behind the event, the incredible turnout, and the lasting impact it's had on attendees. Whether you joined us last week or are tuning in for the first time, this episode is packed with insights on how such events are changing the landscape for women in agriculture.

Kaylee reflects on the significance of this gathering, which attracted nearly 50 women from various stages of life, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences to the table. The event featured inspiring speakers, including a session on the importance of color analysis in personal and professional branding, which resonated deeply with attendees.

Throughout our conversation, Kaylee emphasizes the importance of building a community where women can share their struggles, achievements, and strategies for balancing work, life, and personal growth. She shares how the Elevate Women in Ag event not only strengthened her professional network but also had a profound impact on her personal development, offering her a renewed sense of purpose and confidence in her role.

Listeners will gain insights into the challenges and opportunities for women in agriculture and how events like these can drive meaningful change. Kaylee's passion for fostering an inclusive environment in the ag industry shines through, and she hints at exciting plans for the future, encouraging more women to get involved and continue the conversation.

Key Learnings:

• The power of community and networking in empowering women in agriculture.
• Strategies for balancing professional and personal life, especially for women in demanding industries.
• The importance of personal branding and how small changes, like understanding color analysis, can enhance confidence and professional presence.
• Insights into the planning and execution of events focused on women in ag, and the potential for growth in future initiatives.

Support the show

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn:
@cofeeinthebarn

Send us a text

Welcome to the latest episode of Coffee in the Barn, where we delve into the inspiring and multifaceted lives of women in agriculture. This episode, hosted by Morgan Hart and Casey Bradley, brings a unique blend of personal stories, professional insights, and empowering discussions that highlight the challenges and triumphs of balancing motherhood with a career in agriculture.

Morgan Hart and Casey Bradley kick off the episode with a warm welcome and an introduction to their experiences and backgrounds. They discuss the intersection of motherhood and agriculture, sharing their motivations for starting the podcast and their vision for creating a supportive community for women in the industry.

Elevate Women in Ag Conference

Morgan and Casey recount their recent participation in the Elevate Women in Ag Conference. Morgan shares her experience attending the social event, highlighting the networking opportunities and the impactful speech by Crystal Blynn from House of Color. They discuss the significance of dressing for success and how understanding color theory can boost confidence and personal presentation.

The Role of Women in Agriculture

The hosts explore the evolving role of women in agriculture, emphasizing the importance of support networks and professional development. They reflect on the conference's broader impact, discussing how such events foster community and mentorship among women in the industry. Casey emphasizes the need for similar events across different agricultural sectors to promote inclusivity and growth.

Personal Reflections and Lessons Learned

Casey and Morgan delve into their personal journeys, sharing the challenges they've faced and the lessons they've learned. Casey discusses her journey from a swine nutritionist to expanding her expertise to pet and poultry nutrition. She reflects on the importance of embracing one's authentic self and not being confined by traditional roles or expectations.

Supporting Women in Ag

The episode highlights the significance of supporting women in agriculture, not just through professional development but also through personal growth and confidence-building activities. They discuss the impact of mentorship, coaching programs, and how male colleagues can play a supportive role in fostering a positive environment for women.

Action Items for Listeners

Morgan and Casey provide actionable insights for listeners, encouraging them to reflect on their own professional and personal lives. They emphasize the importance of authenticity and self-belief, urging listeners to identify and overcome any limiting beliefs they may hold. The hosts also share their plans for future episodes, including discussions on work-life balance, personal growth, and professional development in agriculture.

The episode concludes with a heartfelt thank you to the listeners and sponsors, particularly Zinpro, for their support in making the Elevate Women in Ag Conference a success. Morgan and Casey express their excitement for future episodes and their commitment to continuing the conversation about the vital role of women in agriculture.

Support the show

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn:
@cofeeinthebarn

Send us a text

In this episode of Coffee in the Barn, hosts Casey Bradley and Morgan Hart reconnect after a vibrant summer of events, bringing fresh insights and personal stories from the heart of agriculture. Recorded after their recent participation in the Elevate Women in Ag Conference in Des Moines, Iowa, the duo shares their reflections on the conference's impact and the empowering experiences it fostered.

The episode kicks off with Casey and Morgan discussing their time at the Elevate Women in Ag Conference, where they mingled with industry leaders and like-minded women passionate about advancing agricultural roles. Morgan recounts the engaging social event organized by Kaylee Keppy-McDonnell and Zimpro, which featured insightful sessions on dressing for success by Crystal Blynn of House of Color. They explore the power of personal presentation, delving into how understanding color theory can boost confidence and authenticity in both personal and professional life.

A key theme throughout the episode is the balance between professional life and motherhood. Casey shares her personal journey of redefining her career, moving from swine nutrition to a broader scope, including pet and poultry nutrition. Her insights on embracing one's authentic self and breaking free from conventional expectations resonate strongly, encouraging listeners to carve their unique paths in agriculture.

The conversation also highlights the importance of community support and mentorship in agriculture. Casey and Morgan discuss how male colleagues can champion women's growth, emphasizing the value of diverse perspectives and inclusive environments. They touch upon personality assessments and personal development tools like the Working Genius model, offering listeners actionable insights to enhance their leadership and teamwork skills.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their authenticity and the lies they may tell themselves, with Casey and Morgan providing actionable steps for personal growth. They emphasize the importance of being true to oneself and the liberating feeling of authenticity in both personal and professional realms.

With heartfelt gratitude to Zimpro for their support and sponsorship, Casey and Morgan express their excitement for future episodes, promising more insightful discussions and expert insights into the world of agriculture. Tune in to this enriching episode and join the conversation on the vital role of women in agriculture.

Support the show

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn:
@cofeeinthebarn

Send us a text

In this exclusive episode of Coffee in the Barn, host Morgan sits down with Dr. Stewart Galloway, a revered expert in swine nutrition who recently retired after an illustrious 35-year career, including the last 20 years with Hubbard. Dr. Galloway shares his journey, influences, memorable moments, and key lessons learned throughout his remarkable career.

Key Learnings:

Career Evolution:
·       Early Aspirations: Inspired by a passion for science and agriculture from a young age, Dr. Galloway pursued higher education in animal sciences.
·       Professional Journey: Transitioned from academia to the industry, starting with technical support roles and evolving into a vital part of the consultative sales process for swine nutrition products.
Memorable Career Moments:
·       Daily Learning and Problem-Solving: Emphasized the importance of continuous learning and helping farmers and sales teams improve operations and profitability.
·       Consultative Sales Approach: Enjoyed developing skills within sales teams to provide better support to customers, enhancing the effectiveness of farm visits and consultations.
Key Lessons:
·       Treat Every Situation as Important: Regardless of the size, each customer’s concern is significant and should be handled with care and respect.
·       Flexibility and Creativity: Tailoring solutions to specific farm needs and thinking outside the box are crucial in providing effective nutritional advice.
·       Maintaining Integrity: Building a good reputation through professionalism and honesty, understanding the interconnected nature of the agriculture industry.
Industry Changes:
·       Producer Landscape: Observed the consolidation from many small farmers to fewer but larger operations. This shift has increased the complexity of nutritional and management needs.
·       Economic Pressures: Acknowledges the tighter profit margins and higher stakes in decision-making for modern swine farming.
Advice for Aspiring Professionals:
·       Embrace Agriculture’s Potential: Highlighted the diverse opportunities within agriculture and the importance of leveraging education and internships to pursue passions within the field.

Support the show

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn:
@cofeeinthebarn

Send us a text

In this captivating episode of the Coffee in the Barn Podcast, hosts Casey and Morgan take us on a journey through the evolving landscape of technology and AI applications in modern agriculture. From the delicate balance of being working moms in the industry to the integration of cutting-edge software tools, this three-part series sheds light on the transformative power of technology in farm management.

Key Learnings:
 Evolution of Software Tools and Mompreneurship:
- Balancing Work and Motherhood: Reflecting on the challenges and joys of being working moms in agriculture, Casey and Morgan share personal experiences.
- Tech Evolution: Discussing the evolution of software tools from typewriters to modern digital applications, emphasizing the role of computer programming in optimizing tasks.
- Adapting to Technology: Exploring the hosts' journey from dial-up internet to wireless phones and their adaptation to using software tools for tasks like formulating animal diets economically.
Software Tools in Animal Diets and Swine Farm Management:
- Shift to Cloud-Based Systems: Casey delves into her experience with modern software tools for formulating animal diets and the importance of understanding the basic concepts.
- Sustainability Modeling: Morgan discusses advancements in sustainability modeling within formulation software, focusing on setting key performance indicators for optimal animal feed formulation.
- Blockchain Integration: Envisioning the integration of blockchain technology in agriculture for enhanced transparency in product information and sustainability practices.
Technology and AI in Modern Agriculture:
- Remote Monitoring Systems: Highlighting the role of advanced systems in remotely monitoring and managing farm operations, enhancing efficiency and problem prevention.
- Venture Capital Shift: Discussing the increasing investments in software and AI in agriculture, emphasizing the importance of technology tools for farm management.
- AI Integration: Exploring the integration of AI tools like ChatGPT into industry resources for enhanced productivity and knowledge sharing.

From alarm notifications for farm issues to blockchain-integrated sustainability models, Casey and Morgan demonstrate the transformative potential of technology tools in modern agriculture. Stay tuned for more engaging episodes and in-depth discussions on the Coffee in the Barn

 Thank you for tuning in to this enlightening exploration of the impact of technology and AI in the agricultural industry. Subscribe to Coffee in the Barn Podcast for more industry insights and expert discussions on the innovative tools shaping the future of farming practices.

Support the show

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn:
@cofeeinthebarn

Send us a text

In  this episode of Coffee in the Barn podcast, Casey and Morgan discussed the nuances of their work within agribusiness, shedding light on the crucial role of innovative tools and techniques as well as biosecurity measures in upholding animal health and well-being.

Key Learnings:

Insights on Biosecurity:

• Biosecurity Essentials: Details on essential items in the biosecurity box, ensuring protection during tasks like necropsies.
• Collaborative Testing: Emphasizing collaboration with veterinarians for sample collection and diagnostic testing.
•  Inter-species Risks: Discussing risks of disease transmission between species and strategies to prevent contamination.
• Vehicle Toolbox:  Describing the vehicle as a mobile toolkit for maintaining stringent biosecurity practices.
• Personal Hygiene: Discussing personal biosecurity practices like car disinfection and considerations for easy sanitation.
• Sector-specific Tools: Mentioning specialized practices in different sectors, such as tire sprayers in poultry farms and tire washes in swine facilities.
•  Feed Sample Submission: Focusing on preparedness for submitting feed samples to labs for comprehensive testing.
• -Biosecurity Significance: Understanding how biosecurity measures play a crucial role in averting disease spread among animals.
• Varied Toolkits: Exploring the range of tools and methods utilized by professionals in the day-to-day operations.
• Hygiene Practices: Stressing the importance of personal hygiene in safeguarding animal health and welfare.

Innovative Tools and Techniques:

-Mobile Lab Setup & Swine Farm Instrumentation: - Discussion on the necessity of a mobile lab van and common tools used in swine farming for blood collection and animal handling.
- Ergonomics in Workspaces: Insights into setting up ergonomic home offices and the significance of ergonomic principles in office settings.
- Nutritional Analysis Tools:  Exploration of tools like the Penn State box sieve system and portable mycotoxin testing systems used by nutritionists.
- Future Technological Prospects: Speculation on upcoming advancements such as thermal cameras for illness detection and potential smartphone applications for thermal imaging.
 
This insightful series on the Coffee in the Barn podcast reveals the key tools, practices, and biosecurity measures integral to professionals in the agricultural sector. Stay tuned for more informative episodes and detailed show notes on future releases.

Thank you for joining us on this exploration of innovative tools and techniques driving efficiency and advancement in agribusiness. Don't miss out on the engaging discussions and expert insights by subscribing to Coffee in the Barn.

Support the show

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn:
@cofeeinthebarn

Send us a text

Dive into this informative episode of Coffee in The Barn, where hosts Morgan and Casey exchange their top tips and personal preferences for managing luggage effectively while traveling. Whether you're heading out solo or with family, this discussion covers everything from strategic packing to handling your gear at airports, making sure your travel is as smooth as possible.

What You Will Learn:

- Packing Strategies for Souvenirs: Morgan shares her hack of packing a collapsible bag within her main luggage to accommodate any souvenirs or extra items acquired during travel.

- Choosing the Right Bag: Learn about the benefits of having a bag with multiple pockets for organization, and hear Morgan’s personal passion for such bags stemming from childhood.

- Alternative Organizing Techniques: Casey discusses her preference for using Ziploc mesh bags to segregate items inside her luggage instead of multiple pockets, which helps her quickly locate essentials like Chapstick without fuss.

- Family Travel Considerations: The conversation turns to the challenges of traveling with children, highlighting how kids enjoy rummaging through bags, often turning tidy packing into disarray, as shared by Morgan from her experiences at church with family.

- Airline Baggage Tips and Tricks:  Casey offers insights into utilizing perks like free checked bags available through airline loyalty programs, and shares tips on how parents can ease their travel experience by checking car seats at ticket check-ins instead of carrying them through the airport.

- Simplifying Travel with Pre-planning:  Casey reflects on her experiences traveling with her child, Arthur, discussing how investing in the right gear and planning effectively can significantly reduce stress during travel.

This episode  is packed with practical tips and lively anecdotes that will benefit anyone looking to optimize their travel experiences, especially parents navigating the logistics of flying with children. Morgan and Casey’s diverse preferences and experiences offer a range of solutions that listeners can tailor to their own travel needs.

Support the show

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn:
@cofeeinthebarn