Happy Thursday partner,
On today’s edition of The Oxer by Pegasus, we are recapping insights from our Pegasus Podcast episode featuring Jodi Lynch Findley.
Jodi hosts one of the equestrian world’s emerging podcasts, The Thriving Equine Professional. She went from Horse Girl to Thought Leader in the Agricultural Realm, taking us to the answer that most have about the relationship between horses and agriculture: how do they fit together?
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When we consider the agriculture industry, images of expansive fields, hardworking farmers, and the rustic charm of rural life often come to mind. However, beneath this idyllic surface lies a dynamic and challenging field that demands innovation, communication, and leadership.
Jodi’s story is a testament to the transformative power of mentorship and education in carving out a successful career path in agriculture and equine industries. Her journey, punctuated by pivotal moments of growth and learning, serves as an inspiring narrative for anyone looking to navigate the complex terrain of agribusiness.
The heart of Jodi’s tale lies in her formative experiences with the FFA, where she cultivated skills that propelled her into a career far beyond the stable. “Future Farmers of America,” as described by the organization, was founded by a group of young farmers in 1928. Their mission was to prepare future generations for the challenges of feeding a growing population. They teach that agriculture is more than planting and harvesting – it’s a science, it’s a business and it’s an art. Dipping into public speaking, horse judging, and the influential role of her high school agriculture teachers, Jodi discovered the plethora of opportunities within the agriculture industry.
Jodi’s transition from an ‘ag kid’ to an industry professional was marked by mentorship—crucial relationships that guided her through various roles, from feed store staff, to even working for Pegasus Partner Zoetis, to setting up a collegiate equestrian program.
Jodi’s entrepreneurial venture, Jodi Speaks Life, symbolizes her commitment to fostering the next generation of agribusiness leaders. She emphasizes the importance of upskilling, particularly in communication and connection, as essential tools for career development.
Dissecting the notion of ‘hustle culture’ and the pressure to follow a linear career trajectory, we advocate for exploring diverse experiences and embracing the organic evolution of one’s professional journey.
Education in agriculture, as Jodi points out, is undergoing a shift. No longer is the field dominated by students from traditional farming backgrounds. An influx of individuals from metropolitan areas, attracted by environmental concerns and food supply chain interests, are reshaping the demographic.
The equine industry, intertwined with agriculture, faces its own unique challenges. There is a tremendous need for inclusive educational content that bridges the gap between various agricultural sectors and prepares students for the diverse careers available to them.
The economic and political influence of the equine industry often goes unrecognized. There is unexpected diversity within the sector, from the financial clout of horse enthusiasts to the impact on land conservation and politics. This dialogue opens up the broader conversation about agriculture’s role in society and the necessity of better marketing and education to connect with consumers.
Jodi’s narrative comes full circle as she discusses the importance of mentorship and networking in establishing a career in the equine industry. She encourages young equestrians to utilize platforms like LinkedIn to discover the myriad of job opportunities that exist beyond the barn. From marketing and research to pharmaceuticals and data analysis, the potential career paths are vast and varied.
As we conclude this episode, it’s clear that Jodi’s journey from horse girl to communication maven and mentor is not just her own success story—it’s a blueprint for others to follow. Her unwavering passion, perseverance, and dedication to personal excellence offer a powerful message: in the fields of agriculture and equine industries, the seeds of education and mentorship can grow into a fulfilling and impactful career.
Many thanks to Jodi for spending time with us on the show. You can listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to The Pegasus Podcast.
Be sure to follow Jodi on LinkedIn as well.
Pick up your reins,
The Oxer by Pegasus
