February 05, 2025

Investing in Leadership: Paul Hansen on the Future Generation of Farmers

1 hour

This episode runs on @WonderCowColostrum shop.wondercow.com/DAIRYGALVAL or Use code DAIRYGALVAL to save $$

Title: Investing in Leadership: Paul Hansen on the Future Generation of Farmers

Host: Val Lavigne

@DairyGalVal

www.dairygalval.com

Guest: Paul Hansen

LinkedIn: @Paul Hansen

Summary

In this episode of the Dairy Hour podcast, host Val Lavigne interviews Paul Hansen, a leader in agricultural development at Land O'Lakes. Paul shares his journey from growing up in a small town in Iowa to his current role in leadership development, emphasizing the importance of engaging young farmers and fostering future leaders in the agricultural industry. He discusses his career path, the significance of work-life balance, and offers valuable advice for aspiring leaders in agriculture. In this engaging conversation, Paul and the host explore various themes including leadership in agriculture, personal growth, and the importance of community support. They share light-hearted moments through rapid-fire questions, delve into the significance of holiday traditions, and reflect on travel experiences. The discussion also touches on valuable life lessons, advice to younger selves, and the importance of finding allies in both personal and professional realms. The episode concludes with inspirational quotes that motivate them to strive for their best selves.

Takeaways

Paul's role at Land O'Lakes focuses on developing future leaders.

Investing in leadership development is crucial for cooperatives.

Growing up in agriculture shaped Paul's career path.

Education and internships are vital for career development.

Work-life balance is essential for effective leadership.

Engaging young farmers is key to the future of agriculture.

Advocacy in agriculture is increasingly important.

Finding your passion can lead to fulfilling leadership roles.

It's important to take opportunities when they arise.

Life will always be busy; prioritize what matters. Leadership in agriculture requires prioritizing time and effort.

Personal preferences in food can spark fun conversations.

Understanding history helps contextualize current challenges.

Family traditions, like the 4th of July, create lasting memories.

Travel experiences shape our perspectives and values.

Advice to younger selves often revolves around patience and growth.

Inspirational quotes can guide us through life's challenges.

Finding allies is crucial for personal and professional support.

Learning from failures is essential for growth.

The importance of doing your best, regardless of outcomes.

Sound Bites

"Family is still first."

"Find where your passions are."

"Take advantage of the opportunity."

"Life's always gonna be busy."

"You have to learn history."

"History repeats itself."

"4th of July is my favorite holiday."

"Germany is a hopping place."

"Best days are yet to come."

"I want you to say you did your best."

"Did you live up to your light?"

"Find your allies and support people."

Chapters