The Bridge

Hosts: Mike Schafer, Paul GilgGuests: James PowellIn this episode the Patriot ERG welcomes James back home following his recent deployment and take a meaningful look at his journey from mobilization to reintegration. James shares insights on the challenges and growth that come with returning to civilian work life, the support that made a difference along the way, and the perspectives he brings back from his service. Through an honest and thoughtful conversation, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of Reserve and Guard service, the realities of transitioning home, and how organizations and coworkers can better support those who answer the call.QUOTES FROM THIS EPISODE“There’s nothing quite like reconnecting after that long time away. The phone calls and texts only do so much — that face-to-face reunion is just the best feeling.”“You can think you know what that moment is going to feel like, but until you’re actually there and experience it, it’s a whole different ballgame altogether. It’s a feeling I’ll never forget.”“We kind of joked that we had to relearn how to live together again — like we were first dating or first married. It’s been challenging but rewarding at the same time.”“Leading in that environment gave me a real appreciation for the responsibilities senior leaders carry. Most decisions aren’t black and white — there’s a lot more complexity behind them than people realize.”

Host: Sydney BeckerGuests: Deb Buehler, Heidi MittagIn this episode, we sit down with two standout speakers from the Leader Conference IGNITE Talks to explore what it takes to ignite an audience — and yourself — in just five minutes on stage.Our guests share behind the scenes stories about the preparation that helped bring their ideas to life and the challenges of distilling a powerful leadership message. From working with a public speaking coach to navigating nerves and finding confidence under the lights, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the IGNITE Talk experience.

Host: Alec HoganGuests: Amanda Bauer, Marni Frandson, Troy Pfannenstiel, Martin JohnsonThis year’s ERG leaders discuss events coming up this year, how teammates can get involved, and why joining an ERG is such a rewarding experience. QUOTES FROM THIS EPISODE“These ERGs are really for our teammates and to support our culture.”“There’s a tremendous amount of personal development that comes from being part of an ERG.”“We’re trying to make meaningful programs that teammates want across all of our ERGs.”“It’s the people you get to know that you wouldn’t otherwise that make being part of an ERG such an awesome experience.”

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 JohnsonGuests: Chris Obermeyer, Ginger LangemeierQUOTES 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 StrandGuests: Joey Huff, Heather Otto, Zach GansebomQUOTES FROM THIS EPISODE"You love your kids and you just want them to be happy honestly.""All flourishing is mutual.""There isn’t anyone you couldn’t love once you’ve heard their story."

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 NelsonGuest: Mark VetterQUOTES FROM MARK VETTER“I was a collaborator before collaboration existed.”“60% of what makes you a great leader is trial and error.”“Every teammate gets to build their legacy by how they show up every day.”“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 BeckerGuests: 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 KerriganGuests: 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 ClavinGuests: 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 JohnsonGuests: Herb Scruggs, Justin Leisy, Steve Groff, Mike Schafer

Hosts: Kelsey White & Rachel MehlhafGuest: Lynn PietigDescription: 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 SchantellGuests: 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.

Holidays look different for every crew. Hear from 3 Crew members how they navigate the joys (and challenges) of the holiday season.Hosts: Troy Pfannenstiel, Kelly O'Donnell, and Ashley Schantell

Today we are spending time with family members of Veterans. They each have a unique story about how the military has impacted their life. We will hear from the perspective of a spouse, a child, a parent, and a sibling. We will hear about the pride shared for their loved ones, opportunities provided, and the sacrifices made.Team Patriot is one of our associations ERGS. We are a “community of one" who aspire to serve and honor those who have served our country. Whether it’s installing American flags at each retail location, bringing in veteran speakers, or organizing the 9/11 stair climb events, we’re proud to honor those who currently serve, have served, and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country.Host: Mary McNallyGuests (teammates): Jessica Nolte, Marissa Schuster, Chris Mobley, and Dyan McMullin

On this episode of The Bridge, we’re joined by hosts, Carli Jacobsen, Strategic Marketing Manager and Trish Mitchell, Performance Marketing Manager with guest Jeneen Sagon, Product Owner and 2022 Beacon Leader. Beacon is an Employee Resource Group dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community by cultivating an inclusive, safe, and a welcoming workplace where we celebrate authenticity. In this episode, we dig into the history of National Coming Out Day and explore our some of our own teammates experiences.Hosts: Carli Jacobsen and Trish MitchellGuests: Jeneen Sagon

On this episode of The Bridge, we hear from Jessica Fyre, EVP Chief Administrative Officer. This is another episode of our popular series "Ask ELT" where Jessica sits down with us to discuss her role with AgCountry Farm Credit Services, what has helped her in her leadership role, as well as a day in the life of ELT. Listen in to hear about some current focuses, advice she has for young professionals, and what her favorite pizza is!Advice for teammates that Jessica wishes she had been given earlier in her career… “I have a natural tendency to be a planner. I think early on in my career I kind of set forth and said this is what I want to do in 2 years, 5 years, 10 years, etc. and I think for someone to tell me that it’s ok to plan, but it’s also ok for that plan to not turn out the way you expect.” 

Join three members from our Families ERG as we discuss tips and tricks for the “Back to School” season.Stay connected with CREW members and other families on the CREW's Engage page.

Team Catalyst members, Jeannie Fetrow and Kelsey White, along with SVP Fallon Savage, discuss confidence, empowerment, work-life balance and many other pressing topics.

On this episode of The Bridge, we’re joined by host, Liz Kerrigan, Community Relations Manager with guests Michelle Spies, Lending Compliance Officer and Amy White, Loan Accounting Specialist. Beacon is an Employee Resource Group dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community by cultivating an inclusive, safe, and a welcoming workplace where we celebrate authenticity. June is Pride Month, and, on this episode, we discuss the history of Pride, the Associations’ participation in Omaha’s Heartland Pride Parade on July 13 as well as a new opportunity, Friends of Beacon, for teammates to who want to engage in additional ways with Beacon. Host: Liz KerriganGuests: Michelle Spies and Amy White

On this episode of the Bridge, we are joined by host, Maryann Peak, AIP specialist, based out of Emporia, KS and Jackie McLaughlin, Vice President of Strategy Enablement. This is another episode in our popular series “Bridging the Gap” where our goal is to share the story of teams across our Associations with our listeners.  Jackie and Maryann emphasized the importance of effective change leadership & change management in organizational success. They discussed the need for adaptability, continuous learning, and collaboration within their own organization, and how each teammate has a personal responsibility on leading those around them with support, empathy and understanding of the changes around all of us.

On this episode of the Bridge, we are joined by host, Mary McNally and teammates Carl Watson, Ramiro Benavides, Justin Leisy, and Chris Obermeyer.  They each have a unique story to share about their time in the military and how it impacted their life. We will hear about their sacrifice for our country and the importance of teamwork.The Patriot ERG mission statement describes our group as a community of one who aspire to continue to serve and honor those who have served our country. Whether it’s installing American flags at each retail location, bringing in veteran speakers, or organizing the 9/11 stair climb events, we’re proud to honor those who currently serve, have served, and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

On this episode of The Bridge we’re joined by Christa Wilson, RVP of Lending in Eastern Iowa, Barb Weber, FO in the Mitchell office and Theresa Johnson CXS in the Sioux Falls office. Catalyst is an ERG with a mission to foster opportunities to empower women and enrich their professional development. On today’s episode, in celebration of Women’s History Month, our guests dive into a fun conversation on past memories, experiences and changes they’ve had during their careers.Host: Sydney BeckerGuests: Christa Wilson, Barb Weber, and Theresa Johnson

In 2023 and 2024, Beacon partnered with Omaha’s Inclusive Communities team to plan for some educational workshops. The first of these was held on January 17, 2024 and focused on Identity & Intersectionality and Implicit Bias. In this podcast, two Beacon members who participated in this workshop share their key takeaways. 

Happy New year! On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we’re joined by John Regentin, VP of Experiential Leadership at FCCS. His focus is to provide organizational development, experiential learning, leadership development, coaching and facilitation to people across the country. Roots was lucky enough to work with John through our brand-new program in 2023 called Building Roots. Listen to the podcast to learn more about Building Roots and how John’s background set him on a trajectory to help people across the world find growth points in all areas of life through experiential learning workshops. Building Roots will be accepting nominations in the summer of 2024. Our second annual event is planned for September 2024. If you’re interested or would like more details please email $Roots. We have an exciting announcement! All 5 ERGs will be joining forces to bring you relatable content throughout the year. With a new brand, we will post one episode per month related to each ERG’s focus area. Listen to the podcast and keep an eye out on Yammer to stay in the loop with changes coming!Book: “Flow” by Mihaly CsikszentmihalyiFCCS | FCCS - Forward. Thinking. (fccsconsulting.com)

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots we’re joined by Jud Jesske, SVP Business Development-Commercial Protein. This is the final episode in our series called ‘Bridging the Gap’ where our goal is to share the story of unique business units with Roots listeners. Jud gives us an inside look at the beef and swine operations our commercial protein team serves. You’ll be able to hear right away how passionate Jud is about adding value to the people and industry he serves! Quotes from Jud: “Customers want lenders who have the unique ability and knowledge that they need, and provide value to the operation-that’s one key benefit to the industry specialization we have at Farm Credit.” “Never compromise your core values.”“If you need an alarm clock to get out bed in the morning, you’re not doing what you’re meant to do.”

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots we’re joined by Chris Obermeyer, VP Credit Operations and Major Evan Perperis of the U.S. Army Special Forces. Evan shares his timeline of his military career, and how his military training works as guidance on leadership, problem solving and perseverance in all aspects of his life.The Patriot ERG mission statement describes our group as a community of one who aspire to continue to serve and honor those who have served our country. Whether it’s installing American flags at each retail location, bringing in veteran speakers, or organizing the 9/11 stair climb events, we’re proud to honor those who currently serve, have served, and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country.HostChris ObermeyerGuestEvan Perperis

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots we’re joined by Megan Sprague, Young Beginning Small (YBS) officer out of the North Platte office. And, for the first time ever, we bring customers along on this podcast. Aaron Obrien and Kurt Trusty of AK Farms join us to tell us about their experience with our YBS program. This is the third episode in our series called ‘Bridging the Gap’ where our goal is to share the story of unique business units with Roots listeners.  Aaron and Kurt share how the YBS program allowed AK Farms to get off the ground while Megan provides great insight as to what YBS is and how this targeted approach can help the customers she is serving.  Host: Andy PfeiferHow would your operation be different without a relationship with Megan?         Kurt Trusty of AK Farms: “Without Megan, there would not be an AK farms.” Megan Sprague, YBS officer: “I would like to highlight that when they came in last year, I was really excited about the opportunity they had in front of them(to farm 8 quarters) but I was really excited knowing that we just launched the YBS program, and this is exactly what program is designed for.”

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots we’re joined by Darrin Mercer, VP Finance, and Abby Jacobsen, Finance and Pricing Analyst. This is the second episode in our series called ‘Bridging the Gap’ where our goal is to share the story of unique business units with Roots listeners.  Darrin and Abby give us insights about how the Farm Credit Funding system works and what a day in the life looks like for them! Host: John KofmehlAdvice for young professionals from Darrin & Abby: Darrin- Have curiosity, read, listen to podcasts- there is always something to learn! Find a mentor, even if they are not in an area you are familiar with, they can challenge you to help you grow. Book recommendations- anything by Patrick Lencioni.Abby- Get involved with classes, ERGs, or other groups to build relationships with teammates across the association. Focus on interactions with others! Resource: Farm Credit System: Federal Farm Credit Banks Funding Corporation

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we’re joined by Angie Treptow, SVP Lending Operations and Kelsey White, Account Specialist in Emmetsburg, IA. Catalyst is an ERG with a mission to foster opportunities to empower women and enrich their professional development. This episode is prime content from two teammates who were directly involved in Team Thrive. If you’re in the mood for a confidence boosting message, this podcast is for you!“Trust the process, trust our leaders, and know that although transition might be scary, it could lead to great opportunity. It may even pull skills out of ourselves that we didn’t even know we have. Push through the uncomfortable and don’t be your own worst enemy when it comes to mindset.” – Kelsey White and Angie Treptow

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots we’re joined by Dustin Oswald, VP Capital Markets, and Nichole Christensen, Capital Markets Credit Officer. This is the first episode in a new series called ‘Bridging the Gap’ where our goal is to share the story of unique business units with Roots listeners.  Dustin and Nichole give us insights about how the Capital Markets team fits into the Farm Credit system and what a day in the life looks like for them! We look at Midwest agriculture as corn, soybeans, cattle and hogs, but the cool thing about our team is that we partner with and support other Farm Credit associations to serve industries like timber, energy, wine, and paper products. Serving these industries diversifies our risk and provides growth potential for Farm Credit Services of America. Host: Sarah WeisGuests: Dustin Oswald and Nichole Christensen

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we hear from Beacon members Lacey Konecny, Trish Mitchell and Carli Jacobsen as they discuss why the Beacon ERG is important to them, their theme for 2023 of Allyship and how we can show up in the workplace as an Ally.Join in their upcoming events. For more information, visit the Beacon SharePoint site.

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we hear from Jackie Martinie, EVP Chief Credit and Operations. Jackie sits down with us to discuss her transition from Farm Credit Illinois to FCSAmerica and Frontier Farm Credit as well as a day in the life of ELT. It’s the second in a miniseries we’re hosting with ELT members. Hear about some current focuses, advice she has for young professionals, and who the fastest ELT member is!  Advice for teammates who would like to be in a leadership role someday….“Dig deep to understand what you’re trying to achieve, where you’re trying to go, and why. Many people can’t answer the why, and I think you have to really understand who you are and why you’re doing what you’re doing to be successful and to be happy.”—Jackie MartinieHost: Karie Spencer

Host: Ashley SchantellGuests: Haley Byers, Steph Lunden, Yue TitusDescription: Crew takes over the podcast this month to share some of their favorite recommendations for work life balance. Join them as they give you tips and tricks on topics including meal planning, budgeting, and activities to do with your kids, all with the goal of making your day more successful!Links:Meal Planning-  What To Cook When You Don't Feel LikeCooking | caroline chambers | SubstackProductivity- Effective Edge Class , Pomodoro method  Budgeting Tips- Everydollar app, Mint.com, digit appThings to do with kids: Instagram @dayswithgrey,@busytoddler, @ABClearning, @recycleandplayCrew yammer page with ideas: (20+)Yammer - ConversationBook recommendations: Atomic Habits by James ClearDare to Lead by Brene BrownThe Happiness Trap by Russ HarrisGrit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela DuckworthAudio books apps: Scribed, libby, audible

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we hear from Scott Binder. Scott sits down with us to discuss some things about him both personally and professionally as well as a day in the life of ELT. It’s the first in a mini series of hosting ELT members.  Hear about some current focuses, what the ELT relationship with our board looks like and who the best chef on ELT is!  "In this company, it doesn’t matter what your title is. You can contribute and have a relationship in a whole group of different ways regardless of your title.” -Scott BinderHost: Andy Pfeifer

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots we are joined by our five brand-new Roots members. This is a chance to get to know the Roots team more and hear about what we have in store for 2023! Let’s give a warm welcome to our new teammates: Jaden Coen - Leasing Representative, OmahaJess Miller – Business Analyst, Application Development Team 5, OmahaAditya Bhongir – Application Developer, OmahaSarah Weis – Product Support Analyst, Business Support, Cedar RapidsAlyssa Buis – Business Analyst, Data Integration and GIS, Omaha“I feel lucky to be working for a company that genuinely wants the best for its customers and employees, offers a multitude of different opportunities for involvement, and they are actively curating a culture people want to work in.” – Jaden Coen“I want to empower others to continue to grow whether that’s personally or professionally and I feel that Roots embodies that mindset.” – Alyssa BuisHost: Sarah Walther

Description: On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots we hear from Nathan Jensen and Rory Witt as they share how morning routines have been influential in their lives. The podcast highlights Robert Sharma, author of “The 5 AM Club”, who writes about the benefits of having a morning routine and lays out formulas like the 20/20/20 method to make the most out of the first hour of every day.  We encourage you to listen to this podcast and read the book! “The way you start your day influences the way it unfolds…we always perform in a way that is aligned with how we see ourselves, so turn I cant’s into I can’s and develop habits that help you reach your goals.” – Nathan Jensen, VP Capital MarketsHost: Kayleigh StenderPodcast Recommendations: The Mandate Podcast, Peter Ziehan and the Craig Groeschel Leadership PodcastBook Recommendations: Winning by Tim Grover, Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom and Winning the War in your Mind by Craig Groeschel

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots we hear from the Roots Leadership Team as they share holiday traditions from their homes. From cookie decorating, to church, to Lego building, we all have unique memories that bring us closer together making Farm Credit teammates feel like family. Happy Holidays to all!Host: Kayleigh Stender

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we welcome Kate Larsen, Salesforce Administrator and the incoming leader of Roots, and Karie Spencer, VP Financial Systems and the incoming sponsor of Roots. They share their background, common misconceptions of Roots, give a glimpse into 2023, and much more!“Technology is going to continue to grow, not only in how we reach our customers, but how can we reach more teammates that would like to get involved. As we look into 2023, we’ll want to challenge ourselves on how we can use technology in a meaningful way.” – Karie SpencerHost: Chelsea Christensen and Marty Hoefer

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we host CREW leadership team members Tessa Genners, Product Owner, and Ryan Coleman, RVP Retail Operations. They talk to us about the CREW ERG, helpful family practices, and how you can get involved. “CREW is just that. It’s supporting employees as they lead their families and helping them to be the best they can be at work. You feel most productive at work when you’re happy in your family life, and we’re just trying to make that a little bit easier.” – Ryan ColemanHost: Austin Fichter

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we host Marty Hoefer, VP Portfolio Analysis and Reporting. He talks about his passion for Crypto, the dos and don’ts, and where to even start! If you’re curious to know more, reach out on Twitter to @MartyHoefer (a.k.a Crypto Dad).“Blockchain is the technology that enables cryptocurrency to exist. Cryptocurrency are the projects that sit on top of that technology.” -Marty Hoefer Host: Maryann Peak

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we host Rebecca Shively, Customer Education Specialist, and Lacey Dalton, Sales Talent Development Specialist. They talk to us about the Catalyst ERG historically and how they are impacting and empowering women within Farm Credit.“The mission of catalyst is to foster opportunities to empower women and enrich their professional development… Our vision is around women discovering, pursuing, and achieving their true potential.” -Rebecca Shively Host: Karlie Jandel

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we host Lou Caniglia, VP Business Intelligence and David Wendt, RVP Related Services in Southwest Iowa. As facilitators of the Dave Ramsey CORE Financial Course and finance gurus, they share their personal stories and why they are inspired to help others achieve their financial goals. “I love that we’re getting a front row seat to see lives change and families impacted, we’ve heard a lot of stories over the years of families that have engaged in the way Dave Ramsey teaches and carried that into their families and it’s inspiring to see.” -LouHost: Nichole Christensen

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we host Jeneen Sagon, Business Analyst, and Alex Foreman, Product Owner. They talk to us about the Beacon ERG, building confidence, and how you can become a better ally.“Our mission is to educate, advocate, empower. We’re not here to tell you what to do, what to believe, vote for this person, don’t vote for that person. We’re really just here to be a resource to let people know different ways a person can have a gender identity or gender expression.” - Alex Foreman Host: Kate Larsen

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we host Maggie Holub, YBS Relationship Officer. She talks to us about how she turned her love for fitness into a side hustle.“You have one body and that’s all you get.  You have one chance at life, so you need to take care of it and you need to take care of yourself.”  - Maggie Holub  Host: Sarah Walther

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we host Tom Dobbe, Regional Vice President of Business Development, and Erin Aliano, Organizational Change Practitioner. They talk to us about the undertaking of implementing Salesforce to our organization, from the impact COVID had on the work to the change management involved throughout the implementation.  “We used an analogy of moving houses a lot. Of plumbing, electricity, and how we’re building this new solution for a lot of different scenarios. It’s not just a lift and shift from one system to another. We like to think of the change like moving from one home to another home. There are things that you feel comfortable with, and you know that are reliable, but when you go and do something in a new home, you don’t have the confidence. We wanted to make sure our teammates felt confident when they moved into their new home. Their relationships weren’t changing with their customers, they still knew their customers and what they needed, they had a lot of that foundation. We wanted their confidence in the system. So that’s what we really tried to focus on.”  - Erin Aliano Host: Julianne Pope

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we host Julie Krause and Greg Roberg - leaders from our AgDirect® team. They tell us how AgDirect started as an idea back in 1997 to a nearly $3 billion dollar business today. “There was discussion of what the vision of AgDirect was going to be and if it was sustainable. Out of “firefly”, the #1 idea was to expand AgDirect and expand it within the Farm Credit system. And that will lead to other things, which we’ve seen: Rural 1st®. FarmLend®. And more.” -Greg Roberg Host: Andy Pfeifer

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we host Lori Sisson and Kristin Larsen, our Rural 1st leaders. They take a deeper dive into how the Rural 1st partnership was started and built into a successful consumer lending program with Farm Credit Mid-America. “Our vision is to get customers closer to what matters, what matters is different for everyone, and we want to help customers achieve their dreams.” –Kristin LarsenHost: Chelsea Christensen

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we host Carl Horne and Kody Schrader from the Digital Loan Products and Services Team. They take a deeper dive into how FarmLend® was started and built into a successful digital loan origination platform. Tune in to hear Carl sing the original jingle!“You have to start from the customer’s perspective...achieving business outcomes starts with talking to customers and solving their problems.”–Kody SchraderHost: Kayleigh Koch

On this episode of Strengthen Your Roots, we chat with Brian DeVaney, Carol Brush and Jess Langenberg from the ODL Team. They introduce the Development Circle and how we can use it to reflect on our purpose within the association. Reflect and Rise Up was Roots’ 2021 theme, so the ODL team will give us insight on how to reflect and ways we can start 2022 off strong. “Taking that time, whether it’s writing it down, or just even having a conversation with a spouse or your leader or a coworker on this is what I’ve learned, this is what I’ve applied, this is how I’ve grown over the last year is really powerful” – Carol BrushHost: Nichole Christensen