Listening, Goals, Growth in the Work Environment with Michael Helms

The Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast

Michael Helms, a proud native of Peachland, NC, embarked on a remarkable journey that intertwined his passion for agriculture with a steadfast commitment to leadership. Graduating from NC State University with a degree in Agricultural Economics, Michael delved into the feed industry, dedicating 42 years to honing his expertise. His illustrious career included pivotal roles at renowned companies such as Cargill, Royster, Southern States, and Purina, where he managed both retail feed and fertilizer operations and led sales teams with finesse. Notably, as the Eastern Region Director for Purina Feeds, Michael steered the strategic direction and financial performance across a vast territory spanning from southern Louisiana to Maine, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

Following a distinguished tenure at Purina, Michael transitioned into a new chapter, co-founding AGRx Recruiters alongside his son, Joseph, a licensed pharmacist. Leveraging his wealth of experience and unwavering dedication, Michael now focuses on shaping the next generation of agricultural leaders while continuing to uphold the values of integrity, excellence, and innovation that have defined his remarkable career.

This episode dives deep into what it means to be intentional in the business world, particularly within the agribusiness sector. Listeners can anticipate a revealing conversation that unravels the importance of customer-centric business strategies, goal-setting, and celebrating success.

At the core of the discussion are Michael's invaluable experiences and insights into cultivating a culture that not only retains talent but fosters continuous improvement and intentional leadership. The talk meanders through the significance of listening, goal clarity, and overcoming challenges to foster a better work environment. The episode promises to deliver key lessons on personal growth and nurturing one's team for aggregated success.

Key Takeaways:

• Being intentional in business means staying customer-focused and ensuring all actions contribute to solving customer problems or adding value.
• Effective company culture stems from listening, removing roadblocks for employees, recognizing success, and being clear about personal and professional growth paths.
• The transformation from micromanagement to empowering teams leads to greater success and happier employees.
• Regularly evaluating oneself and making time for strategic thinking is crucial for intentional leadership.
• Personal stories and professional experiences from leaders like Michael Helms provide rich lessons for aspiring agribusiness leaders.

Notable Quotes:

• "The biggest wins have come from watching those people succeed."
• "If you're not improving, you're going backward."
• "The better people I surround myself with, the better job we're going to do."
• "If you get down the road and it's not working, don't go out and tell everybody else. Come tell me."
• "I needed people around me that would challenge my ideas, because oftentimes my ideas weren't that great."

Give this episode a thorough listen to fully grasp the deliberate strategies and profound insights offered by Michael Helms on intentional leadership within the agribusiness sector. Keep tuning in to the Intentional Agribusiness Leader podcast for more enlightening conversations that empower industry leaders and promote growth.