Craig Dick: Making Decisions That Expand Opportunities

The Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast

In this episode of the Intentional Agribusiness Leader podcast, Mark Jewell hosts Craig Dick, the VP of Sales and Marketing at Phospholutions, Inc. Craig shares his perspective on what it means to be intentional, emphasizing the importance of making decisions that expand rather than limit one's opportunities. Growing up on a farm, Craig’s career has been diverse, from working with startups to leading sales strategies in well-established companies. His insights into sales and marketing, particularly in the agribusiness sector, offer valuable lessons for listeners.

Throughout the conversation, key themes include the importance of culture, intentional decision-making, and the unique challenges and rewards associated with working in startup environments. Craig discusses the significance of maintaining a consistent marketing message, celebrating team achievements, and fostering a positive and supportive company culture. He also details the strategic approach Phospholutions, Inc takes in positioning their innovative products in the market to ensure both sustainability and profitability. The dynamic interplay of his professional insights with personal anecdotes provides a rich narrative that both informs and inspires.

Key Takeaways:

• Intentionality in Decision-Making: Craig stresses making mindful decisions that expand opportunities and network rather than limiting them.
• Building a Strong Company Culture: The company values at Phospholutions, Inc—mindful, original, and bold—play a central role in their operational success.
• Challenges of Startup Environments: Craig highlights both the unique challenges and rewards of bringing new technologies to market in the agribusiness sector.
• Consistency in Marketing: The importance of maintaining a robust and consistent marketing message over time to ensure customer retention and brand recognition.
• Importance of Personal Well-Being: Craig emphasizes the role of physical health, including exercise and proper nutrition, in maintaining high energy and productivity levels.

Notable Quotes:

1. "For me, it's being mindful of where you want to go and what you want to accomplish, but making decisions along the way that increase your options and not reduces them."
2. "We just really have a different view on how to bring agricultural products to market as a startup than what you've historically seen the last 10-15 years in agriculture."
3. "What they've created here from a culture standpoint is just unlike anything I've ever been a part of."
4. "It's about being intentional from day one of what are you trying to build and what kind of team are you trying to put together."
5. "If you find that message that is a bit sticky and you find people reacting to it, you're going to be bored to tears repeating the benefits, but it takes the channel a long time to remember it."

We encourage listeners to dive into the full episode for a deeper understanding of how intentionality and culture drive success in agribusiness. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions in upcoming episodes of the Intentional Agribusiness Leader podcast!