Cultivating Connections

““Sometimes you got to slow down, you need to listen more than you speak, and really hone in on some priorities that ultimately at the end of the day are mutually beneficial to you, to your team, and to the partner you are working with.” Join us this month as Devin Fuhrman of Nationwide® Insurance tells us how his career and experiences playing college baseball have shaped him into the leader he is today. We have a rich discussion on having clarity in your team roles and working to help them have developmental plans as you look forward to your organization’s future.

Book Suggestions: The American Story by David Barton and Timothy Barton. and Vice President in Charge of Revolution by Murray Lincoln

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This month we dive into a discussion lead by a leader who has worked in policy, trade, banking, and agriculture. Experienced leading not only a staff but managing a board of directors, Mr. Kirk Merritt brings to our discussion some insight on how there are times as a leader we go in front, but there are also times we step back to let those we lead be the face of our organizations. From lessons from his parents early on to experiences leading trade missions across the globe, Kirk encourages working with your team to better themselves and for new leaders to look for opportunities to take leadership on small scales to build your skills.

Book Suggestion This Episode: This month we have another podcast suggestion from Kirk. Check out the Wall Street Journal’s daily posts on business!

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In this month’s episode, we talk with the Associate Vice Provost and Dean of the Graduate School for the University of Florida about her journey as a leadership scholar and now a university leader. Faced with two very different leadership styles by bosses early in her career, Dr. Stedman has found a way to use what she calls a “leadership buffet” approach to working with her team to find great success. Only 4 years into her role, she talks about being a partner with her team and helping them forge through when change is all around them. This is a fun conversation with a great leader who brings her Florida charm into the conversation!

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This month we spend some time with Shift-ology CEO, Melanie Wilt of Springfield, Ohio. From her time as communication director for the Ohio Department of Agriculture, to starting her award winning PR firm, to serving as a County Commissioner while her community found itself in the public spotlight during the 2024 Presidential election, Melanie has learned many lessons in and out of the boardroom. We have a great discussion on the importance of leaning into your principles even when it isn’t the most popular path and keeping emotional intelligence front and center. Curiosity and focusing on the small things are just a few of the tidbits we gather from Melanie’s successful journey as a political and communication leader in Ohio.

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This month we dive into a discussion with Tara Durbin of Farm Credit Mid America, where we discuss how managing people with impact and working with empathy helps the team succeed. She talks abut the need to look forward while also watching the team. The importance of someone who can see from all vantage points to help you grow. We also breakdown the importance of vulnerability and approach ability as a leader, and learn a little of her secrets balancing family and work. Join us for another great conversation!

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Join us this month for Episode 8 as we explore the leadership lessons that come with a lifetime of working with youth and professionals alike. Dr. Park, the National FFA Advisor, sat down with Jenny and Emily prior to the National FFA Convention that brings together some of the over 1 million middle and high school student members at the end of October. Dr. Park shares how laying a good foundation and communicating with your team is important to relationships and their ultimate success. Dr. Park is a truly authentic leader and that shines as he talks about being yourself and believing in your ogranization. So grab your headphones and join us for another great discussion.

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OH… IO! Not all leadership comes in the same packaging. Join us this month as we catch up with the TBDBITL’s band director, Dr. Chris Hoch, to see how he approaches the challenge of running one of the most famous bands in the US (and probably the world if you ask this Buckeye). From managing the day-to-day of working with his staff, his student leaders, and the band members to the big events like the Rose Bowl Parade and the Buckeye’s 2025 successful bowl season, Dr. Hoch approaches his leadership for a place of communication and support. Join us as he describes the 6 B’s of leadership that the band thrives on: Be the Example, Be Accountable, Be Encouraging, Be Empathetic, Be a Positive Teacher, and Be a Good Steward.

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Join us this month as we laugh, we cry, and we follow California Farm Bureau’s Chief Operating Officer, Dan Durheim, through his leadership journey working in both the corporate and non-profit sectors. We discuss Dan’s dedication to leading from a place of joy and putting people first as he helps the teams he has led reach new heights. This Big Ten, Land Grant fan joins Jenny and Emily in a rich discussion of how developing yourself along the way helps you develop those around you.

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From starting a company in his dorm room to leading an innovative agriculture organization changing the way things are done, Cam Camfield has a unique perspective on leadership and on this episode we explore his journey as we talk about the impact of mentors and leading with empathy and gratitude.

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Join us as we talk with Tom Stewart as he approaches retiring for the second time in his career. After a long career in the broadcast industry, where ultimately he was the President of WBNS-TV the CBS affiliate in Columbus, Ohio, Tom joined the faculty and staff at The Ohio State University to teach courses in public speaking and public relations. His insight of working with students to on-air talent and engineers in broadcasting is full of experiences and lessons of teamwork and effective leadership tactics. In a lively discussion, Tom shares with Jenny and Emily many of his lessons learned as he continues his path as a life long learner.

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Join us for a lively discussion of how her different roles and her family have shaped the leader she is today.

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Join us as we start off with a discussion with Dr. Jeff King about his journey and path as a leader at Ohio State.

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