It Starts with a Story

When I was in college, my best friend was the guy who could walk into any room and in 10 minutes, he'd be surrounded by a new circle of friends.

As much as I tried, that simply.. Was. NOT. Me!!

I was, and am the guy who would find one or two people who wanted to have a deeper, more meaningful conversation.

And this is how I approach business!

Because of this, I am also the guy who leans into seemingly uncomfortable conversations. While others often avoid these situations at all costs, I'm like a moth to a flame! I choose to dive in to understand everyone's perspective. Everyone's interpretation of what is happening is their own. That's why it is imperative to listen to ALL sides before deciding how to proceed to reach a mutually beneficial outcome!

Life is too short for small talk! So if you would like to connect, let's have a conversation about what's really going on!

My Background

On the Farm

After graduating from college, I started out farming and feeding cattle with my family.

Over the next 6 years, the family business experienced growth and financial success. Everything appeared to be in position for even more in the decades ahead!

Then, in 2005, I chose to leave our family business.

On Farm Sales

In 2005, I began working directly with farmers as part of Cargill at Albion, Nebraska.

A lot happened in the next 3 1/2 years, with corn prices ranging from sub-$1.50 (Oct '05) to over $7.50 (Jun '08), and then back under $3.00 (Dec '08).

The ups and downs of this roller coaster ride were like a masters degree in terms of managing risk and human emotions. It also served as a giant wake up call for me to reevaluate what truly matters!

Building Teams

I used this experience to build and develop a grain origination team at Central Valley Ag Cooperative (CVA). This team remains one of the highlights of my professional career, and a tremendous source of joy and pride.

With the success we had together, I then served in other leadership roles at CVA, leading sales teams through organizational change, including a merger of equals.

It Starts with a Story

My Background

On the Farm

On Farm Sales

Building Teams

Executive Coaching

Wade's Book Abundance