Making Sense of 2015 to Plan for 2016

Making Sense of 2015 to Plan for 2016

  It’s January, 2016 and a new year is upon us. Although we are only five days in, I started my new year a few months ago – in September. I find that the “back to school” time is a perfect time to start a new learning season. Whether you started early too or are...
Too Frosted to Forgive?

Too Frosted to Forgive?

“Man, I can’t believe that guy, every time I make a mistake, he just can’t accept my apology, and he keeps really good track…for years!” Does your farm team have the ability to apologize and accept mistakes? I was saddened to hear a young farmer confide with me that...

Dealing with Retiring Farmers to Create Landlord Relationships

I am extremely grateful for the 3 neighbours who showed up with 3 extra combines to harvest on the last sunny Saturday of September; it really made a huge difference in reducing the stress on our farm. When I relayed this story to an easterner, he said, “Wow, they...
Who Gets to Make the Ultimate Decision on This Farm?

Who Gets to Make the Ultimate Decision on This Farm?

One of speaker Norm Rubin’s universal laws of life goes like this: “ Make everyone a stakeholder. Involve everyone on your team in your farm; ask for their input and opinions. Recognize that all those involved in your business will build your business. When you make...
What Fathers Need to Do to Embrace Son-In-Laws

What Fathers Need to Do to Embrace Son-In-Laws

One of the overlooked team players on the family farm is the son-in-law who is married to the successor, the daughter of the founders. Let’s consider some of the dynamics that you need to be aware of to help understand what is going on for the son-in-law (SIL). Why...