Welcome to The Workmatters Podcast! Our host Brandon Swoboda is joined by Donnie Smith, a longtime friend, mentor, and the former CEO of Tyson Foods, now leading impactful work as the chairman of the African Sustainable Agricultural Project. Donnie’s story is one of authentic faith in action, from his early career days on chicken farms to leading one of America’s largest food companies, and now empowering communities in Rwanda.

In this conversation, Donnie opens up about how faith became real in his work life, learning to lead with integrity and compassion, and the deeply practical ways he lived out his beliefs, like having a Bible on his desk and taking time to know and care for the people he worked with. Together, Brandon and Donnie talk about what it’s really like for your faith to be tested, not just in church, but in the rough and tumble of daily work, business setbacks, and high-stakes leadership.

Donnie also shares his passion for Africa, where he’s building sustainable food systems that bring hope and dignity to those living on less than a dollar a day. Whether you’re new to your career or a seasoned leader wondering how your faith can shape your work, Donnie’s insights into honoring God with excellence, building up others, and blooming where you’re planted are sure to inspire and challenge you!

Show Notes

00:00 Introduction

04:57 Leadership and Responsibility in the Workplace

11:56 Faith Challenges in Leadership Transitions

16:55 Experiencing Faith Being Challenged at Church

20:22 God’s New Assignment for You

26:59 Building Food Systems and Leaders

31:16 Closing Thoughts

Links

Brandon Swoboda

Workmatters

Donnie Smith

African Sustainable Agriculture Project