Business
Drew Jensen grew up in Exeter, Nebraska on his family’s farm operation. The first-hand experiences he had throughout his childhood and young adult life is what initially sparked his passion and interest in the agriculture industry. Following high school, he followed his passion for agriculture and attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to earn his degree in Agribusiness and Finance. After graduating, he began working with Barlett Grain, and later, Applebee’s International in the supply chain management field. While working at Applebee’s International, he attended the University of Kansas to earn his MBA. Like Drew, Adam Ickes grew up on his family’s farm operation based in Page, Nebraska. After attending the University of Nebraska, he spent the first five years of his career working in the cash grain trade industry where his responsibilities included trading specialty grains, managing logistics, and understanding risk exposure. Drew and Adam join me on today’s episode to share how the Tredas company got started and how it became the successful business it is today. They share what inspired them to build a career in agriculture, the risks associated with quitting their previous careers to start a new company, and the company’s culture. They also explain how they gain inspiration from their team and clients, the biggest challenges and obstacles they’ve had to overcome while starting the company, and the lessons they have learned throughout their careers that have helped them build a successful agribusiness. “Whether you’re farming or are in some type of agribusiness, you have to try to understand how to differentiate yourself. That’s not always easy, but you’ve got to really think outside the box.” Adam Ickes This week on the Agripreneur Podcast: What inspired them to build a career in commodity trading and agriculture risk management. Transitioning from trading basis to commodity consulting. Lessons they have learned throughout their careers in risk management and commodities trading. Hedging risks in specialty and liquid markets. The importance of understanding perceived variables. The importance of identifying the worst-case scenario in trading commodities and creating a plan to protect your investment. Risks associated with leaving their previous jobs. How they developed the Tredas name. The company’s culture. The biggest pain points associated with starting a new agribusiness. Overcoming growing pains as an agribusiness startup. How they gain inspiration from their team and clients. Why farmers and agribusinesses need to keep an open mind and be open to change. How your mindset and emotions impact your ability to make firm decisions and take action. Resources: Ask GaryVee Podcast Subscribe Rate & Review the Agripreneur Podcast Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Agripreneur Podcast - the show where agriculture meets entrepreneurship to bring you valuable information, interviews, and insight from the industry’s most successful entrepreneurs. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the show on iTunes and leave us an honest rating and review. Don’t forget to share your favorite episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media!