Josh VanDeWalle: The Power of Being Present

The Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast

In this insightful episode of the Intentional Agribusiness Leader podcast, host Mark Jewell sits down with Josh VanDeWalle, a seasoned leader at Bayer. From growing up on a Nebraska farm to leading sustainability initiatives with global food giants, Josh shares his journey of intentional leadership, innovation, and personal growth.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Being Fully Present: Josh emphasizes that intentionality begins with showing up fully in every interaction. Whether it’s in conversations, meetings, or personal life, presence is a key driver of meaningful connections and impactful leadership.
• Stretching Beyond Comfort Zones: From engaging in Bayer’s global Catalyst Challenge to partnering with companies like Walmart and PepsiCo, Josh highlights how stepping out of his comfort zone has accelerated his growth and leadership journey.
• Building Culture with Authenticity: Authenticity is critical to fostering trust and creating a healthy workplace culture. Josh shares how leaders can encourage teams by being genuine, open, and consistent in their communication.
• Innovation in Action: Josh’s work on Bayer’s Grower Loyalty Program and his role in developing a new sustainable wheat initiative showcase how intentionality can lead to transformative changes within the agriculture sector.
• Advice for Emerging Leaders: Seek opportunities that challenge you, surround yourself with mentors, and never stop learning. Josh’s career progression is a testament to the value of embracing diverse experiences.

Notable Quotes:

• “Being intentional is about being fully present. It’s about engaging with purpose in every moment.” – Josh VanDeWalle
• “The best leaders reach out directly, even when they don’t have all the answers. That authenticity builds trust.” – Josh VanDeWalle
• “Challenge yourself. Stretch beyond your comfort zone. The growth you’ll experience is invaluable.” – Josh VanDeWalle

This episode is packed with actionable insights for leaders seeking to elevate their intentionality and drive meaningful change in agribusiness. Whether you’re navigating your early career or refining your leadership approach, Josh’s journey offers valuable lessons for everyone.