John Schwartz of Schwartz Farms shares his remarkable journey from a dairy farm upbringing to building a highly successful agricultural enterprise with 500 employees across multiple states.

John discusses how they've navigated the industry's volatile cycles. From the "Go-Go days" of the 1970s inflation to current biosecurity challenges like the PRRS virus to the future potential of gene-edited pigs. He offers invaluable lessons on leadership, embracing change, and the profound impact a business can have on rural communities.

Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:14 1970s Inflation & Early Days
00:30 Welcome John Schwartz, Schwartz Farm
01:05 Farm Origins & Growth
02:03 Pig Business Evolution
03:10 Company Expansion
03:44 Biosecurity Challenges
05:47 Gene-Edited Pigs & Future
07:03 Airborne Viruses & Industry Hubs
08:44 Minnesota's Agri-Powerhouse
10:20 Weathering Cycles & Culture
11:36 The Power of Culture
12:30 Leadership, Humility & Appreciation
14:40 Growth & Culture Preservation
17:07 Employee Investment: 401K
18:28 Rural Impact
19:12 Legacy & Community
21:14 Valuing Relationships
23:53 Humility & Connection
25:09 Family Farm History
26:37 Ag Interdependence & Drainage
28:37 Rewarding Rural Impact
31:16 Sustaining Culture Amid Change
34:19 Embracing Industry Uncertainty
37:53 Final Thoughts: Opportunity & Attitude

Related content:

• #40 | Family Business Series: Insight and Advice From a Family Business Coach
• #39 | Family Business Series: Relationships and the General Transfer of Knowledge
• #38 | Building a Strong Business Culture

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