Imagine stepping into one of the largest agricultural expos in the country, surrounded by cutting-edge innovation, seasoned industry leaders, and the next generation of ag pioneers. Now, picture the person leading this charge—someone who, just a few years ago, had never climbed into a combine. That’s Mark Hennessey, CEO of the Iowa Nebraska Equipment Dealers Association (INEDA). In this episode, Mark shares his remarkable journey from firefighter to corporate leader to head of one of the Midwest’s most influential ag organizations. With a fresh perspective and an outsider’s curiosity, Mark has become a passionate advocate for agricultural innovation and workforce development.

If you think agriculture is just about tractors and cornfields, think again. Mark pulls back the curtain on the Iowa Ag Expo, revealing how technology is reshaping farming—self-driving tractors, AI-driven yield monitoring, and even shrimp farming in Iowa. He also dives into the real challenges facing the industry, from workforce shortages to the urgent need for a new farm bill. Whether you’re in ag, tech, or just fascinated by the intersection of innovation and tradition, this conversation is packed with insights that might just change the way you see the future of farming.

Hear the full show: https://iowapodcast.com/mark-hennessey-iowa-ag-expo