The Bridge

In this episode of the Patriot Podcast, host Martin Johnson sits down with Ginger Langemeier, Legislative Affairs Officer, and Chris Obermeyer, VP of Credit Operations and board member of the Nebraska Farmer Veteran Coalition.

Ginger shares insights into the upcoming Farm Credit Fly-In in Washington, D.C. — a powerful advocacy event uniting more than 800 Farm Credit representatives, directors, and customers to engage lawmakers on issues vital to rural America, young and beginning farmers, and veterans in agriculture.

Chris discusses Combat Coffee, a grassroots initiative that fosters connection, inclusion, and support among veterans, first responders, and teammates — creating a safe, purpose-driven space for sharing stories and strengthening community.

Martin and Chris expand on how vulnerability and authenticity transform these gatherings into family-like spaces of trust and healing.

Together, they highlight the profound bond between rural America and military service.

Host: Martin Johnson

Guests: Chris Obermeyer, Ginger Langemeier

QUOTES FROM THIS EPISODE

“Forty-four percent of those who have served our country come from rural America. Combat Coffee and our advocacy efforts are about connecting those communities — because that’s where our strength lies.” — Ginger Langemeier

“Anytime we can humanize complex policy discussions, it shows that Farm Credit is truly committed to the success of American agriculture and our rural communities.” — Ginger Langemeier

“Even though I don’t have military experience, being invited into that space and feeling the sense of connection — it’s really touching. It’s special to be included in that community.” — Ginger Langemeier

“Combat Coffee is about inclusion — creating a space where veterans and teammates can share their stories, be vulnerable, and feel a renewed sense of purpose.” — Chris Obermeyer

“Nobody does it better than Farm Credit when it comes to supporting veterans. Combat Coffee is proof of that.” — Chris Obermeyer

This episode explores people we view as heroes, how visibility impacts us, and our inspirations that keep us moving forward. Members of the Beacon planning committee share stories of people and moments that affected who and how they are today. The goal is for listeners to recognize others that have helped all of us embrace being our authentic selves.

Host: Andrew Strand

Guests: Joey Huff, Heather Otto, Zach Gansebom

QUOTES FROM THIS EPISODE

On this episode of The Bridge Podcast, Jacob Nelson, Financial Officer (Market) sits down with Mark Vetter, Executive Vice President of Business Development AgCountry, for a candid conversation about leadership, resilience, and collaboration. From his early days as an intern to his current role shaping strategy across eight states, Mark shares insights on authenticity, mentorship, and what it means to be a future-focused leader.

Host: Jacob Nelson

Guest: Mark Vetter

QUOTES FROM MARK VETTER

“If you make a mistake, it’s okay to be vulnerable with the team.”

From early setbacks to strategic wins, Mark shares candid insights into what it means to lead with purpose—and why being present matters more than ever.

On this episode of The Bridge, Catalyst interviews two teammates who have participated in their mentoring program, diving into their experience and the benefits gained.

Host: Sydney Becker

Guests: Greg Roberg & Sara Keysor

This episode explores the idea that understanding another person’s journey can break down walls and build empathy. The conversation dives into real-life stories behind labels, showing how once you truly know someone, it’s hard to reduce them to just one identity – or dislike them for it.

Host: Liz Kerrigan

Guests: Amanda Bauer, Andy Strand, Joey Huff, Trish Mitchell

On this episode of the Bridge Podcast, host Parker Clavin, Insurance Officer at AgCountry Fergus Falls Branch, is joined by Rob Fronning, Regional Vice President of Insurance for Northern Minnesota. Together, they dive deep into the world of agricultural insurance, exploring various types of insurance, how they work, and why they are essential for risk mitigation in agriculture.

Host: Parker Clavin

Guests: Rob Fronning

Join us for a round table discussion with the new members of our Patriot ERG. Our fellow teammates discuss their military experience and how those experiences have impacted their lives today. 

Host: Martin Johnson

Guests: Herb Scruggs, Justin Leisy, Steve Groff, Mike Schafer

Hosts: Kelsey White & Rachel Mehlhaf

Guest: Lynn Pietig

Description: Join Catalyst and AgCountry board director Lynn Pietig as she describes her year of saying YES and the mindset change and confidence that followed her throughout her journey. 

Join CREW as they discuss how to navigate planning for summer with kids! It might be cold outside, but it’s never too early to start thinking about summer!

Host: Ashley Schantell

Guests: Haley Byers and Rachel Schroeder

On this episode of the Bridge Podcast, we are joined by host Aditya Bhongir, Application Developer, and the new co-chairs of SPARK 2025, Jaden Coen, Leasing Sales Officer from former Roots, and Jessa Rasmussen, Credit Analyst from former RISE.

In this insightful episode, we explore the exciting collaboration of The Roots and RISE ERGs into the newly formed SPARK, aimed at leading young professional engagement through career development and teammate connection. Jaden and Jessa share their personal journeys with Roots and RISE, respectively, and discuss their vision for SPARK. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how SPARK plans to build on the strong foundations of both legacy ERGs to create even greater value for the three collaborating associations. The co-chairs delve into the driving forces behind the collaboration, key initiatives for the coming year, and the multitude of opportunities SPARK presents for young professionals. Listen in to learn more about the exciting future of SPARK and how it aims to foster connections, promote career development, and drive a more engaged culture across the associations.