The Founder’s Role to Foster Healthy Farm Business Culture

In this episode, I sit down with farm family coach and agrologist Lyle Wiens to explore the founder’s critical role in shaping a healthy farm business culture. We unpack how clear communication strategies, strong leadership, and early planning can ease generational transition and prevent conflict.

Lyle shares actionable insights on aligning values, building a communication plan, and navigating tough conversations – all rooted in real farm experience. If you’re planning your farm’s future, this conversation is a must-listen. Lyle is a valued member of our coaching team, and young farmers will really appreciate his perspective!

Access the full show notes for this episode at https://elainefroese.com/2025/06/24/t...

✅ Discover more about our guest: Lyle Wiens
https://elainefroese.com/coaching/coa...

Elaine Froese Resources:

✅ SPEAKING - book Elaine for your next event
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✅ COACHING - find your Farm Transition Coach
http://elainefroese.com/coaching

✅ MEMBERSHIP - Join the waitlist for the Farm Family Harmony Membership
https://elainefroese.com/membership/

✅ RESOURCES - download for FREE
http://elainefroese.com/free-planning...

✅ CONTACT - take the next steps in your transition
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✅ BURNING QUESTION? Submit it here for Elaine or her coaches
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Timestamps
0:00:00 - Highlights
0:03:37 - Lyle discusses his work in farm family transition and succession
0:04:13 - Background on the painting in his office and personal reflection
0:06:46 - Discussion on farm business culture and working with farm families
0:07:19 - Expectations of clients and the complexity of family systems
0:09:31 - Challenges in family businesses, particularly around behavior
0:11:49 - Personal growth and taking responsibility for one's actions
0:13:33 - Impact of self-reflection on empathy and emotional regulation
0:15:05 - The founder's role in creating a positive business culture
0:16:46 - Challenges of founders holding onto power and avoiding difficult conversations
0:24:24 - Importance of personality tests like Enneagram
0:28:41 - Personal story about working with family and receiving criticism
0:35:34 - Discussion on why people change and personal motivation
0:42:10 - Role of forgiveness in family business dynamics
0:50:44 - Final key advice: understanding who you are as a founder

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