Leadership In the Field: Leadership Lessons from the Battlefield Artwork

Eye on Potatoes: A Podcast on All Things Potatoes

The Eye on Potatoes Podcast is brought to you by the National Potato Council. This is the place to tune in for conversations with growers and thought leaders on advocacy, production and all things potatoes. It's about talking with folks across the United States and hearing stories about how federal policy impacts potato farming and the important role the NPC plays in standing up for potatoes on Capitol Hill. Thanks to our presenting sponsor, Syngenta. Delivering solutions to help producers face the potato industry's complex challenges, Syngenta provides growers with unmatched field expertise along with an array of effective products. Explore syngenta-us.com/spud-doctor to discover solutions for your potato growing obstacles.

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Eye on Potatoes: A Podcast on All Things Potatoes

Leadership In the Field: Leadership Lessons from the Battlefield

April 17, 2026 • Eye on Potatoes

0:00 | 20:49

During Potato Expo 2026, we explored leadership through the lens of one of American history's most pivotal moments: the Battle of Gettysburg. National Potato Council COO Mike Wenkel and retired Marine Corps Colonel Rob Abbott, a licensed battlefield guide and leadership expert, joined the Eye on Potatoes podcast to discuss the Potato LEAF "Leadership in the Field" program.

Colonel Abbott shares how the triumphs and failures of Civil War commanders offer vital lessons for modern potato operations. The conversation dives into critical topics, including leadership succession and managing mental health challenges like PTSD—drawing parallels between the rigors of the battlefield and the high-stakes environment of production agriculture.

Tune in to learn how historical strategy can help you prepare your team for the future.