Why Member Engagement Matters: A Wisconsin Dairy Leader on Cooperative Strength in Rural America

In this episode, Pete Kappelman, a fourth-generation dairy farmer from Manitowoc County, Wisconsin, shares how member engagement fuels the long-term strength of farmer-owned cooperatives across the Upper Midwest. As the outgoing Chairman of the Board for Land O’Lakes, Inc., Kappelman explains why active ownership through voting, participation, and shared decision-making directly shapes the economic future of rural communities in states like Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and the Dakotas.Gain a grounded perspective on how cooperatives support family farms, stabilize local economies, and create competitive advantages in a rapidly changing agricultural landscape. From leadership succession to market pressures, Kappelman highlights how engaged members play a pivotal role in sustaining rural vitality across America’s dairy heartland.Something Greater has changed its name to Rooted In Tomorrow. The podcast name change is effective April 2022. Subscribers will not need to resubscribe. Push alerts will remain for those who have subscribed through Apple Podcasts. Search for, "Rooted In Tomorrow" by Land O'Lakes, Inc. on all your podcast platforms. "Something Greater" will no longer be searchable content effective May 2022. Check out Rootedintomorrow.com for more stories of incredible farmers!Follow Land O'Lakes Inc at:Facebook: www.facebook.com/LandOLakesIncInstagram: @LandOLakesIncLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/landolakesinc/Follow along with our other businesses. Dairy: www.landolakes.comAnimal Nutrition: www.purinamills.comCrop Protection: www.winfieldunited.comSustainability: www.truterraag.com authenci.com