We're a cooperative rooted in 100 years of forward-thinking. As a leading national podcast on rural issues, agricultural innovation, and the future of food systems, Land O'Lakes, Inc. is placing its owners, both farmers and local retailers, at the heart of creating a sustainable food future through rural communities and economic growth. Join host Kim Olson for stories, interviews, and insight - welcoming new guests on each monthly episode. Production copyright 2025 Land O'Lakes, Inc.
Kim Olson is the chief communications officer at Land O'Lakes, one of America's premier farmer and member-owned cooperatives, led by well-known CEO Beth Ford. Olson is also the host of the Rooted In Tomorrow podcast by Land O'Lakes, Inc.
Beth Ford, a global thought leader and collaborator with a history of convening business and policy voices and conversations, is the well-tenured and influential president and CEO of Land O’Lakes, Inc. Bringing a valuable perspective on economic success and influence for both national business interests and rural America, Ford has led the Fortune 250 company and more than century-old farmer and retail member-owned cooperative since 2018.
Jason is an expert in driving transformation by leveraging data, insights, design thinking, artificial intelligence, and more. Prior to Land O’Lakes, Jason was Vice President of consumer strategy at Columbia Sportswear, where he brought rich data-driven strategy and execution to connect better with consumers through experiences, marketing, and product. Jason has also led strategic transformation initiatives as a senior executive at Nordstrom and Nike.
VP, Community Relations & Exec. Director, Land O'Lakes Foundation
Pete has been a leader in working with legislators on important ag policy issues, including the Farm Bill, climate, trade, and immigration. He also served as an Ag Policy Advisor to the Administration for the United States Department of Agriculture and the Office of the United States Trade Representative and was named Director of the Year in 2018 by the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives.
Pete’s current board service includes the National Milk Producers Federation, the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, and the Graduate Institute of Cooperative Leadership.
Pete is a fourth-generation farmer, having led Meadow Brook Dairy Farms, LLC. Kappelman received a Bachelor of Science from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
Teddy serves as the Chief Technology Officer, leading Land O’Lakes’ digital transformation by leveraging existing and emerging technologies, to keep the enterprise and the federated system competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape. Under Teddy’s leadership, the teams implement technology solutions and industry ecosystems that leverage disruptive technologies such advanced analytics, artificial intelligence, and internet of things to help retail and farmer customers produce more sustainable outputs. Teddy is also responsible for the information technology and information security functions, implementing a comprehensive technology strategy that align with the organization's goals and objectives.
Tonja leads ideation and content development for the retail team in Dairy Foods at Land O'Lakes, Inc. Tonja Supports brand and marketing initiatives. Responsible for Culinary and Consumer trends research. Develop key customer experiences through the food lens and through external media opportunities.