In this episode, we explore what it really means to prepare your business for the future. Whether that’s a long-tenured employee retiring, a shift in ownership, or the next generation stepping up. Instead of trying to “replace” the people who’ve carried so much, we talk about defining what success looks like going forward and building roles that support where your business is headed. It’s all about moving into the next chapter with clarity and intention.
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Culture Development Session
Schedule your Culture Development Session. In this free 30-minute session, you will have a personalized conversation with an expert advisor, an opportunity to see how our programs can help you define your business and people strategies, and actionable insights tailored to your goals to move to the business you have always envisioned.
Leadership Transformation Program
Our leadership transformation program was designed to be straightforward and practical, providing content in digestible chunks, supporting participants through personalized feedback, and providing participants an environment to learn with other ag leaders across the country.
In many instances, managers just aren’t comfortable with WHAT to do, let alone HOW to do it. They feel it’s uncomfortable, they don’t want to demotivate employees and just aren’t sure how to do it. And the repercussions of NOT giving feedback end up impacting you and your business – through lower productivity and profitability, decreased employee engagement, and increased employee turnover.
Creators and Guests
Erin Mies
Erin focuses on uncovering root issues and simplifying solutions so leaders and businesses can move forward with clarity. With 15 years of experience in agricultural, food, and manufacturing industries, she is recognized for her straightforward yet respectful approach to improving leadership effectiveness. Erin holds a Master of Human Resources and Industrial Relations from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and is a Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP).
Kristen Ireland
Kristen specializes in aligning culture, leadership, and processes with business strategy. Known as a thoughtful and strategic problem solver, she has spent over 20 years coaching and consulting executives and managers across industries. Kristen holds an MBA from the University of St. Thomas, Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification, and PROSCI Change Practitioner certification.
What is The People Spark Podcast?
The People Spark® Podcast is where ag leaders and business owners come for practical tools, real stories, and straightforward strategies to grow stronger people leaders, teams, and businesses.
Hosts Kristen Ireland and Erin Mies, HR and leadership consultants with over 35 years of combined experience, share insights from the field and conversations with leaders who have been where you are. From navigating change and improving retention to building culture and leading with confidence, every episode delivers simple, actionable takeaways you can put into practice right away.
Whether you’re leading a family business, co-op, managing a dealership, or running an ag-adjacent business, this podcast will help you stop spinning in circles and move forward with clarity, confidence, and results.