Darrin Boster: Staying Adaptable Through the Unknown

The Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast

Podcast, host Mark Jewell converses with Darrin Boster, President of Elevar Agri-Solutions, on the importance of being intentional in business and life. Darrin starts by drawing sports analogies to explain the power of commitment and how clarity in vision and adaptability play crucial roles in achieving success. They dive deep into the growth and unique business model of Elevar Agri-Solutions, highlighting transparency as a key differentiator in the fertilizer industry.

This episode covers Darrin's experiences moving from a large organization like Koch Industries to running a startup. Key discussions include the dynamics of team building, managing decision rights, and creating a strong company culture through communication and transparency. Darrin shares his insights into lifelong learning, dealing with industry-specific challenges, and the significance of embracing new roles to drive personal and professional growth. Listeners are treated to anecdotes and practical advice on leadership, decision-making, and overcoming hurdles in the dynamic world of agribusiness.

Key Takeaways:

• Commitment and Intentionality: Darrin emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision and committing fully to it while staying adaptable and aware of possible unknowns.
• Transparency in Business: Building trust and stickiness with clients through transparency, especially in sectors like fertilizer, can set a company apart.
• Effective Team Building: Attracting the right people involves offering flexibility, betting on their potential, and ensuring they understand the company's vision and their role within it.
• Growth through Challenges: Facing and overcoming challenges by stepping into unknown roles helps drive significant personal and professional growth.
• Creating Strong Culture: Communication, respect, and honesty are pivotal in building a cohesive and productive company culture.

Notable Quotes:

1. "To me, being intentional is having a clear vision where you want to go and committing to that while being aware of your lack of knowing and being willing to adjust your path."
2. "Whether you want to call it transparency, honesty, or respect, sharing what's going on in your business with your team is crucial for building a strong culture."
3. "I had a coach that always said, 'you got to commit to violence today'... if you don’t commit, you're going to get hurt."
4. "You just have to be a lifelong learner because whatever you thought you knew, it’s always changing."
5. "Comparison is the thief of joy, but you've got to check the scoreboard. It's about comparing yourself to your previous self, not others."

For more insightful discussions and expert advice from industry leaders, tune into the full episode and stay connected with the Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast. Keep up with us for more valuable content and deep dives into the world of agribusiness.