This seminar took me by surprise. Before I left, my barber asked, “What’s there to do in London?” I didn’t know how to answer that question. I expected the usual format: pack as much as possible into two and a half days, spend one day on a tour bus, and head home. Instead, I walked away with meaningful experiences, practical lessons, and a much stronger appreciation for the people and ideas we encountered.

Commodities. Genomics. PRESSURE.

Day 1 opened with a panel representing Egg Farmers of Ontario, Grain Farmers of Ontario, and Chicken Farmers of Ontario: Ryan Brown, Jeff Harrison, and Andrea Veldhuizen. We are grateful for their work ensuring that farms are represented and respected at the appropriate levels of government. Jeff reminded us that “sometimes the best thing you can do is be quiet.” Solving problems before they become public can be the least costly and most effective approach—a lesson my inner introvert appreciated.

Christine Baes showed us that livestock genomics in Ontario’s dairy industry is an international success story. The project succeeded because its data was useful to many stakeholders, each of whom had a different reason to participate. That shared investment created active collaboration and helped the dataset gain international recognition and practical value.

The three-minute pressure presentation was a valuable addition. With little notice, everyone had to speak about a familiar topic, testing our ability to think and present on the spot. It also showed how the program director applies our feedback in real time: we asked for practice and feedback, and we received both.

Automation. Innovation. Restoration. Preservation. Succession.

Both The Original Cakerie and Gray Ridge Egg Grading were impressive. Each uses automation and innovation while facing similar challenges in sourcing materials, finding general labour, and managing storage and cooling constraints. Seeing value added to Ontario’s economy from the processing perspective was encouraging. Class 21 was also impressed by the grove, and the day ended with an outstanding meal prepared by Growing Chefs Ontario.

We learned about Chris and Vivian Crump’s farming journey and their commitment to the health of their farm and surrounding environment. Working with ALUS Middlesex, impressive surface water management was discussed on the farm. These projects are an investment in your community and its nice to hear that they are covered under specific funding programs.

Dealing with Conflict. Knowing your story.

Jennifer Mactavish helped us lean into difficult conversations by creating space to discuss scenarios and “what ifs.” She reminded us that some conflicts cannot be mediated and that it is acceptable to walk away when the other party is not participating in good faith. Her practical principles stood out: praise in public and correct in private; we live in our intent, while everyone else lives in our impact; the hats we wear represent roles, not neutral facts. Conflict cannot be scripted, so trust the process.

Victoria Berry reminded us that we all have value and a story. For uncomfortable conversations, she advised having an exit plan ready if needed. Role-playing then gave us an opportunity to practice the material and turn the concepts into action.

The IAPs are done—and what a success.

Class 21 completed valuable research for every client. Each group described having to adjust its project scope or respond to internal team dynamics. The experience let us take initiative in a space where failure was acceptable, giving us room to take risks and learn. Many groups also used DISC personality traits to understand working styles and delegate responsibilities more effectively.

What’s next?

I am happy to announce that we will join the LeadNY group for our Ottawa seminar. Coincidentally, they are also the 21st class and have 18 members. Perhaps our conflict-management practice arrived at the right time, because we Canadians have plenty of questions. More importantly, this seminar showed how communication, curiosity, collaboration, and thoughtful leadership can turn pressure and conflict into opportunities for growth. Stay tuned!