Leadership development almost always stretches beyond one’s comfort zone.
For the 2026-27 ProFILE cohort, our recent state advocacy training meant watching the weather radar, allowing extra drive time and committing to show up even when conditions were less than ideal.
Growth rarely happens under perfect circumstances.
On a late-February day at Michigan Farm Bureau’s (MFB) home office, our day began with networking, followed by a greeting from Chief Operating Officer Michelle Reynaert. Her message was clear from the start: Leadership is intentional and requires stepping beyond comfort.
Small groups gathered for kickoff conversations with ProFILE Coordinator Becca Gulliver, who encouraged us to think beyond titles — and toward influence. Professional headshots and recorded testimonials followed, reminding us that leadership includes sharing our stories, even when it feels uncomfortable. For some, it was their first time speaking on recorded audio.
Then the focus shifted to skill building.
Elections Specialist Matt Kapp led a session on local government, reminding participants how decisions made close to home can shape agriculture statewide. DiSC training with Deb Schmucker challenged us to better understand various communication styles — our own and others’ — and how that awareness can strengthen our advocacy.
Lunch with the leadership team, including MFB President Ben LaCross, provided valuable opportunities for conversation and perspective. Informal conversations often spark as much growth as structured sessions.
The afternoon continued with more DiSC training before transitioning into practical communication tools during a session led by Jeremy Nagel, MFB’s member communications specialist. For grassroots leaders, learning to effectively share our stories, whether written or spoken, is an essential part of advocacy.
A building tour offered a detailed look behind the scenes of our organization’s home base, and time spent packing food bundles toward fulfilling the Family of Companies’ social mission served as a timely reminder that leadership is also rooted in service.
The stretch really began after dinner, as ProFILE members practiced speeches in front of peers and guests. It had been a long day — early miles driven and hours of learning absorbed — but we all leaned in to embrace it. Speech practice was especially challenging, requiring vulnerability, confidence and a willingness to grow in real time.
By the time we checked into the hotel that evening, our minds were full, but so was the sense of progress. It wasn’t just about sessions on an agenda. It was about showing up, engaging deeply and stretching beyond our comfort zones.
The growth that takes place on days like this may not make many headlines, but it’s building a foundation for influence, action and impact in the years ahead.
Huron County’s Katie Adam is a member of the 2026-27 ProFILE cohort.
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