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PODCAST

The Germinate Podcast

Join Joe Sampson and guests as we explore the intersection of agriculture, business and innovation. With nearly two decades of expertise in agricultural equipment and scaling businesses, this podcast delivers actionable insights, inspiring stories, and strategic advice to help manufacturers and professionals grow their ventures. Whether you"re an industry veteran or just starting out, join us every week to cultivate ideas, expand your knowledge, and germinate your path to success.

business

All Episodes

00:53:00

Betting on America: How WorkSaver Tripled & Thrives...

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/06/18

In this episode, Joe Sampson and Tim Burenga take listeners on a 45-year journey of WorkSaver—from its founding by Tim’s father in 1980 to its evolution as a dual-focused manufacturer and OEM contract specialist. Tim shares hard-earned lessons in cost control, cash flow management, and the balance between growing the dealer network while protecting its value. They explore challenges from the recession to COVID-19, the resurgence of U.S. manufacturing, the future of automation and AI in factories,

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00:53:12

Scaling Smarter: Building Better Businesses with 5L...

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/06/11

In this episode of The Germinate Podcast, host Joe Sampson sits down with Jesse DePriest and Rick Faber, co-founders of 5L Performance, to discuss what it really takes to scale a business beyond its sticking points. Grounded in decades of leadership, sales, and operational experience, the 5L framework—Love, Listen, Learn, Lead, and Lean—guides organizations from chaos to clarity.Rick and Jesse share the powerful origin story of 5L Performance, how their shared philosophies collided serendipitously

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00:39:08

Steel, Tariffs & Time: Navigating America's Economic...

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/06/04

In this timely and deeply insightful episode, Joe Sampson welcomes Steven Ford, retired CCO of Lapham Hickey and current M&A consultant, to discuss the wide-reaching implications of the latest U.S. tariffs. Recorded just a day after new trade measures were announced, the conversation dissects the historical roots of steel tariffs, China’s currency manipulation, and how global trade impacts U.S. manufacturing. Ford offers a rare perspective drawn from decades in the steel and fabrication

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00:44:25

Why Most Small Businesses Fail — And How to Avoid It

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/05/28

In this insightful episode of the Germinate Podcast, host Joe Sampson welcomes media executive and author Cynthia Kay for a deep-dive discussion into what it truly takes to build a sustainable, successful small business. From her humble beginnings sweeping floors at her father’s dry cleaners to leading an award-winning communications company, Cynthia shares hard-earned wisdom from 38+ years of entrepreneurship. They explore the importance of loving what you do, the evolving power of LinkedIn for

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00:34:19

Consulting with Purpose: Scott Post’s Approach to...

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/05/21

In this episode of The Germinate Podcast, host Joe Sampson is joined by Scott Post, founder of S Post Consulting, to explore the art and science behind lean operations and business consulting. From manufacturing lines to restaurant chains, Scott applies a laser-focused strategy to help small and medium-sized businesses streamline operations, eliminate waste, and build systems that scale.They discuss how Scott transitioned from COO roles to independent consulting, the importance of clean, consistent

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00:46:24

Turning Chaos into Strategy: Dealer Software That...

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/05/14

In this episode of the Germinate Podcast, host Joe Sampson sits down with Brian Kovar, a seasoned professional in the Outdoor Power Equipment (OPE) world and current business development expert at Ideal Computer Systems. What started as a casual LinkedIn connection has evolved into a robust professional relationship—and today’s conversation dives deep into why data, ethics, and genuine connections are the secret sauce for thriving in today’s agriculture and dealership industries.Brian shares how

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00:42:22

Italian Ag Equipment & U.S. Trade: Alex Mussa on...

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/05/07

In this episode of The Germinate Podcast, Joe Sampson reconnects with longtime friend and international trade veteran Alex Mussa, now Director of Business Development at SNA Manufacturing LLC. With decades of experience at the Italian Trade Commission, Alex brings deep knowledge of global ag equipment markets, including the complexities of navigating U.S.–Italy trade relationships.The two dive into Italy’s pivotal role as one of the top three global producers of farm machinery, how Italian

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00:59:58

The Future of Vertical Farming and Urban Agriculture...

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/04/30

In this episode of The Germinate Podcast, Joe Sampson sits down with Henry Gordon-Smith, Founder and CEO of Agritecture, a global leader in urban agriculture consulting. Broadcasting from Spain, Henry shares his personal journey — from traveling the world as a digital nomad to becoming a thought leader in vertical farming.He offers a masterclass on what vertical farming really is, its ancient origins, and how it's becoming a vital piece of the agricultural future. Henry also dives deep into the

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00:45:16

How EOS Transformed Downing Construction’s Growth...

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/04/23

Today, we’re diving into what it really takes to grow a business with intention—through systems, strategy, and a deep commitment to people. Joining us is Justin Brown, President of Downing Construction in Indianola, Iowa—a long-time friend and visionary leader whose story of transforming a legacy residential construction firm into a high-performing commercial powerhouse is packed with lessons for every entrepreneur. Downing’s unique focus on vertical markets and a service-first mindset offers a

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00:33:41

Building a Trusted Manufacturing Brand with Todd...

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/04/16

In this episode of the Germinate Podcast, Joe Sampson sits down with longtime friend and manufacturing leader Todd Miller, President of Myers Spring, a third-generation spring manufacturer based in Indiana. Todd shares the powerful story behind the company’s growth, what it takes to build lasting customer relationships, and how the values of integrity, consistency, and trust have helped Myers Spring become a staple supplier in industries like agriculture, automotive, and more.Todd also reflects on

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00:33:31

Why Join EMDA? Inside the Equipment Marketing...

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/04/09

In this episode of the Germinate Podcast, host Joe Sampson sits down with Celeste Lindsey, Executive Director of EMDA (Equipment Marketing Distribution Association), to explore everything you need to know about the organization supporting reps, distributors, and manufacturers in the shortline ag equipment industry.Celeste shares her unique path from teaching and recruiting into the world of ag equipment distribution. She explains what EMDA does, how it creates powerful networking and educational

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00:48:36

SEO, AI, and the Future of Ag Branding with...

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/04/02

Joe Sampson welcomes Michael Bird, CEO of Spindustry, to talk about what really matters when it comes to digital marketing and branding in agriculture. Michael pulls back the curtain on why most ag equipment companies are failing at basic digital strategy — and how to fix it.They dive into:Why websites are still the digital front door (even if you're not selling online)The truth about SEO vs. Google AdsWhy your social media isn’t converting (and what to do instead)Practical uses for AI right now in

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00:42:40

Niche Media & Ag Journalism with Mike Lessiter

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/03/26

In this episode of The Germinate Podcast, Joe Sampson sits down with Mike Lessiter, President of Lessiter Media, to discuss the evolution of agricultural journalism, the role of media in shaping the farm equipment industry, and how niche publishing serves as a powerful resource for agribusiness professionals.Mike shares his journey from sports journalism aspirations to leading a respected ag media company, the importance of preserving industry history, and how Lessiter Media has adapted to the

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00:37:04

Innovation & Sales Strategies with FX Machine Tool...

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/03/19

In this episode of The Germinate Podcast, host Joe Sampson sits down with Matthew Meade, founder of FX Machine Tool, to discuss his journey from farm life in Iowa to leading a successful machine tool business. Matthew shares insights on transitioning from engineering to sales, the importance of building strong customer relationships, and how FX Machine Tool has grown into a trusted name in the industry. He also talks about the evolution of metal fabrication technology, the power of networking, and

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00:45:32

AI, Tariffs, and Market Trends on Agriculture with...

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/03/12

Host Joe Sampson sits down with Jeremy Groeteke, Head of IT & Strategy at Syngenta Group, to discuss the future of artificial intelligence (AI) in agriculture and how farmers, agronomists, and agribusinesses can stay ahead of rapid technological advancements.🌱 What You’ll Learn:✅ How AI and machine learning are transforming farming & agribusiness✅ Why agronomists using AI will outperform those who don’t✅ The impact of tariffs & global trade policies on agriculture✅ How AI is improving

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00:38:28

How Farmers Can Increase Yields & Profitability with...

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/03/05

Host Joe Sampson sits down with Matt Perreault, a fourth-generation farmer and former R&D leader at Shoup Manufacturing, to discuss the biggest trends shaping the future of agriculture.They dive into:✅ High-speed planting and why farmers are doubling their planter speeds✅ Strip tillage adoption and how it’s reducing costs & increasing yields✅ Farm equipment market challenges – rising costs, limited trade-ins & repair issues✅ Commodity prices, tariffs & global ag trends impacting

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00:39:03

The Landoll Legacy: Innovation, Relationships, and...

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/02/26

Host Joe Sampson welcomes Jamie Meier, longtime industry expert and sales leader at Landoll Corporation. They discuss Landoll’s long-standing reputation for quality, customer commitment, and relationship-driven sales, tracing its roots back to Don Landoll’s vision in 1963.Joe and Jamie dive into the current challenges facing the ag industry, including commodity price fluctuations, high interest rates, and the impact of tariffs on the farm equipment market. They also discuss how Landoll’s

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00:38:23

Fractional Sales Leadership with Henning Schwinum

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/02/19

Host Joe Sampson sits down with Henning Schwinum, Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Vendux LLC, to discuss the growing demand for fractional sales leadership. Henning shares his journey from corporate sales leader to entrepreneur, the inspiration behind Vendux, and why companies today are redefining how they scale their sales teams.They dive into why multitasking CEOs struggle to grow, how outside perspectives drive sales innovation, and why a fractional VP of Sales can often be more committed

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00:39:27

Persistence & Problem-Solving with Marc Adams

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/02/19

Host Joe Sampson welcomes Marc Adams, VP of Sales at GBGI Inc., to discuss his unexpected journey into agriculture, the importance of hands-on product knowledge, and how GBGI has evolved into a leading manufacturer of sealing solutions and precision components.Marc shares insights on business growth, adapting to market slowdowns, and why investing in technology and relationships is key. He also dives into GBGI’s aftermarket expansion, how they work with dealers, and the value of industry networks

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00:43:03

The Art of Relationship Building in Sales

The Germinate Podcast ·

2025/02/19

Host Joe Sampson sits down with JC Hatton, a seasoned manufacturer’s representative, to discuss the importance of relationships, diversification, and problem-solving in sales. JC shares his journey into sales, the value of industry organizations like FEMA, and how staying authentic is key to success. Plus, he showcases his incredible singing talent at the end!Key Takeaways- Manufacturer’s reps bridge the gap between suppliers and buyers.- Long-term success comes from relationships, not just

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41 results

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