In this Teaching Thursday episode of the Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast, Mark Jewell and Jon Anderson tackle one of the most pressing discussions in the industry today—intentional leadership in the face of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement. With new leadership in Washington and growing concerns about the future of agriculture, Mark and Jon provide a bold, thought-provoking conversation about how agribusiness leaders can take control of their future rather than reacting to it.

With Robert F. Kennedy Jr. confirmed as the Secretary of Health and Human Services and Brooke Rollins leading the USDA, major changes in food policy, health regulations, and sustainability could impact everything from farm operations to the agribusiness supply chain. Many in the industry are feeling uncertain, if not outright resentful—but Mark challenges listeners to rethink where that resentment comes from and how the industry can step up with true intentional leadership instead of resistance.

🚜 Resentment Comes From a Lack of Intention – The times we are most resentful in life are often the times we were the least intentional. If ag is feeling backed into a corner, could it be because the industry hasn't proactively led the conversation about health, sustainability, and food production?

🛠 Intentional Leadership = Deliberate, Distinct, and Divine – Mark introduces the 3 D’s of Intentional Leadership:

1️⃣ Deliberate – Acting with purpose and foresight, not just reacting to crises.

2️⃣ Distinct – Leaders must carve their own strategic path rather than copying past approaches.

3️⃣ Divine – Rooting leadership in values, purpose, and long-term vision rather than short-term profit or convenience.

💡 Health & Food Policy Changes Are Coming—How Will Ag Respond? – The MAHA movement is focused on eliminating harmful food additives, improving nutrition, and addressing chronic disease. While farmers and agribusinesses have always played a critical role in feeding America, this shift presents a potential challenge or opportunity—depending on how ag chooses to respond.

📉 Ag’s Historic Rally Cry: Feed the World → Now What? – Over the last 30 years, the feed the world message drove massive growth in agricultural productivity. But with today’s food distribution problems and consumer distrust in industrial food, is it time for a new mission?

🤔 Is Agriculture Leading or Reacting? – The industry is at a crossroads—either step up and help shape the narrative on health, food, and sustainability, or get caught in a political battle that may not serve its long-term interests.

💬 Intentional Action Steps for Agribusiness Leaders:

✔ Engage in the Conversation – Don’t let policy be dictated without the voices of real farmers and agribusiness leaders.

✔ Innovate in Nutrition & Sustainability – Find ways to adapt to consumer demand for healthier, more transparent food production.

✔ Take Ownership Instead of Blaming Policy Makers – The best way to stay ahead of disruption is to lead the change instead of resisting it.

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