Patio Ponderings
Exploring the Expected and the Obscure in Agriculture
From a lifetime in agriculture to deep dives into leadership, rural life, and the evolving food system, Patio Pondering is a podcast where thoughtful conversations meet the open air. Hosted by Jim Smith, Ph.D., a seasoned Swine Nutritionist, agricultural thinker, and storyteller, this podcast explores the connections between our agricultural roots and the broader world.
What started as daily reflections—scribbled with a morning coffee in hand—has grown into a podcast that uncovers the insights, challenges, and sometimes-forgotten history of the industry that feeds us all. Whether solo pondering or engaging in candid discussions with guests, this show digs into everything from livestock production to food trends, rural business shifts, and the personal stories that shape agricultural life.
Now available in both audio and video formats, Patio Pondering brings these discussions to life on YouTube and podcast platforms alike. Whether you prefer to listen on the go or watch the conversation unfold, you’ll find fresh perspectives, candid storytelling, and the kind of conversations that make you think twice.
Subscribe and join the conversation—because agriculture is more than just dirt and livestock. It’s a story worth telling.
Patio Ponderings
Episode 59 — Mark Voors: A Journey in Leadership, Faith, and Soulwork
In this episode of the Patio Pondering Podcast, Jim sits down with longtime friend, fellow FarmHouse brother, and ag-industry leader Mark Voors for a conversation that blends leadership, personal growth, faith, and the deep internal work that shapes a meaningful career.
Mark’s path has taken him from FFA State Officer, to roles with John Deere, Monsanto, Cargill, and ultimately to his current position at Beck’s Hybrids. But the titles only scratch the surface. What Mark shares in this conversation is much more personal:
- how coaching—not managing—became his true calling
- what confidence really means in sales and leadership
- how organizations unintentionally limit the people they rely on most
- the moment a painful performance review shifted the entire trajectory of his life
- the difficult but necessary move from head knowledge to heart knowledge in his faith
- why internal reflection is often harder than any job we work in agriculture
This is an episode grounded in honesty and growth. Mark speaks openly about pride, shame, career pivots, spiritual clarity, and the courage it takes to look inward when life demands it.
If you’ve ever wrestled with purpose, leadership, self-worth, or the quiet pull toward something deeper, Mark’s story will meet you right where you are.