A few weeks ago, I had the unique opportunity to have a conversation with Sonny Beck, CEO of Beck’s. Going into this meeting, my goal was to uncover what it was about this company’s leadership that has allowed Beck’s to help farmers succeed for almost 80 years. I could not have prepared myself for the direction the conversation would go. Sonny shared various stories about his role in the company over the years, as well as passing along some inspiration and words of wisdom. Now, I’d like to pass that advice along to you.

Everything on the farm holds a memory. As a kid, it was the hayloft you used to play in with your siblings. The first tractor you learned to drive. The basketball goal on the side of the barn where you practiced your jump shot. The old truck you used to ride in with Dad when he had to go to town for parts. Or the creek you played in on warm summer afternoons when the day’s work was done. As adults, those memories turn to the first field you ever harvested. The first piece of land or equipment you bought on your own. Or maybe even the exact place you were working when your wife called to say it was time to go to the hospital…your first born child was about to arrive.

Years will go by, things will change, equipment will evolve, and farms will grow. But those items, those memories, are priceless. And it’s because of those special sentiments that we are known for keeping certain things around. Some may say they’re old and not worth it, but to us…they’re like gold. Because they were a part of our farm’s foundation.

Faith. Christianity. God. Normally you wouldn’t see these words on a company blog, but I can type them proudly. And it’s not just because I am a Christian. It’s because I work for a family-owned company, Beck’s Hybrids. Maybe you don’t remember from my first blog, but I absolutely love my job. Not only do I love what I do, I love who I work for, what the Beck family stands for, and how they’re not afraid to share their beliefs.