Summary of Podcast Episode #3: Interview with Eileen Jensen on the AFBF's Partners in Advocacy Leadership (PAL) Program

Released on March 7, 2024, "New York Farm Bureau News Bytes" hosted by Steve Ammerman delves into the transformative journey of Eileen Jensen through the Partners in Advocacy Leadership (PAL) program. This episode provides insightful discussions on leadership development, advocacy in agriculture, and the importance of networking within the farming community.

1. Introduction to Eileen Jensen and Her Role

Steve Ammerman introduces Eileen Jensen, celebrating her as a standout member of the New York Farm Bureau. Highlighting her extensive involvement at various organizational levels, Ammerman emphasizes Eileen’s achievements, including her role as the executive director of the New York Animal Agriculture Coalition.

Steve Ammerman [00:02]: "Eileen Jensen really is a rock star amongst our members. She's a great communicator... she's taken the New York Animal Agriculture Coalition to new heights as its executive director."

2. Eileen Jensen’s Agricultural Roots and Passion

Eileen shares her deep-seated connection to agriculture, rooted in her upbringing on a dairy farm in the Finger Lakes, New York. She candidly discusses her brief hiatus from farming during college and her inevitable return, driven by family ties and a passion for supporting farmers.

Eileen Jensen [01:49]: "Farming was in my roots. It's in my blood... agriculture is a way of life for my family."

3. Stepping Out of Comfort Zones: Eileen’s Approach to Growth

Ammerman admires Eileen’s continuous pursuit of personal and professional growth through various Farm Bureau programs. Eileen attributes her involvement in the PAL program to her commitment to embracing discomfort for substantial development.

Eileen Jensen [03:15]: "You need to be comfortable with being uncomfortable... looking for those opportunities that might be off the beaten path."

4. Understanding the PAL Program: Mission and Goals

Eileen elaborates on the mission of the Partners in Advocacy Leadership (PAL) program, which aims to accelerate the advocacy skills of existing advocates. She underscores how the program challenges participants beyond traditional leadership training, fostering both personal and professional growth.

Eileen Jensen [04:29]: "The PAL program takes current advocates... and it really Accelerates you to the next level."

5. PAL Program Activities and Learning Experiences

Providing a comprehensive overview, Eileen details the hands-on nature of the PAL program, including media training in New York City, policy development sessions in Washington D.C., stakeholder engagement in St. Louis, and an international study trip to Chile. She highlights the practical assignments and real-time feedback that distinguish PAL from other programs.

Eileen Jensen [06:13]: "We've learned from each other. It's really been that network."

6. International Perspectives: Learning from Chile

Eileen recounts her international study trip to Chile, where she observed the universal challenges faced by farmers, such as urban sprawl and climate change. This experience reinforced the idea that agricultural issues transcend borders, fostering a global perspective in addressing local challenges.

Eileen Jensen [13:43]: "Farmers everywhere are dealing with the same challenges and trying to just do what's right to produce healthy and safe food for all of us."

7. Advocacy and the Importance of a Strong Farm Bill

The discussion shifts to the critical role of the Farm Bill in supporting farmers. Eileen articulates the necessity of a robust Farm Bill for ensuring access to risk management tools, environmental programs, and research funding, emphasizing its impact on food production and community well-being.

Eileen Jensen [12:29]: "Farmers need the access to programs to allow them to do what they do every single day."

8. Building a Supportive Network Through PAL

Eileen highlights the significance of the PAL program’s network, consisting of diverse professionals from various states and agricultural sectors. She values the ongoing relationships and knowledge exchange that continue beyond the program’s duration, enhancing collective advocacy efforts.

Eileen Jensen [16:59]: "It's almost the most important part... we have book clubs, group texts, emails."

9. Overcoming Challenges: Imposter Syndrome and Confidence Building

Eileen opens up about her initial struggles with imposter syndrome, particularly not living on a farm daily. Through the PAL program, she regained confidence and developed effective advocacy strategies, enabling her to better support New York farmers.

Eileen Jensen [20:44]: "I struggled with imposter syndrome... This program has helped me become an advocate for Farm Bureau in different ways."

10. Application Process and Encouragement for Prospective Applicants

Eileen outlines the PAL program’s application process, emphasizing that it targets seasoned advocates committed to advancing their advocacy skills. She encourages potential applicants to take the leap despite doubts, sharing her personal journey of growth and the program’s impact on her career.

Eileen Jensen [18:59]: "Jump and jump feet first... don’t listen to the naysayers."

11. Graduation and Future Endeavors

As the episode nears its conclusion, Eileen reflects on her upcoming graduation from the PAL program. Chosen as the graduation speaker, she anticipates continuing her advocacy work and expanding her network, reinforcing her commitment to agricultural leadership.

Eileen Jensen [22:54]: "We'll be giving some workshops... celebrate being an advocate in agriculture."

12. Closing Remarks and Acknowledgments

Steve Ammerman congratulates Eileen on her achievements and encourages listeners to consider the PAL program. Eileen extends gratitude to the Farm Bureau and sponsors, acknowledging their crucial support in her advocacy journey.

Eileen Jensen [24:20]: "A big shout out to Farm Bureau, American Farm Bureau, but also New York Farm Bureau... their financial support made this possible."

Key Takeaways:

• Leadership Development: The PAL program offers rigorous, hands-on training that challenges participants and significantly enhances their advocacy capabilities.
• Global Insights: Exposure to international agricultural practices fosters a broader understanding and innovative approaches to local farming challenges.
• Networking Importance: Building a strong, supportive network through programs like PAL is invaluable for ongoing professional growth and effective advocacy.
• Advocacy for Farmers: A strong Farm Bill is essential for providing farmers with necessary resources and support, directly impacting food production and community health.
• Personal Growth: Overcoming personal challenges, such as imposter syndrome, is integral to becoming an effective advocate and leader in agriculture.

For more information about the Partners in Advocacy Leadership (PAL) program and to apply, visit the American Farm Bureau Federation's website at afb.org and search for PAL. Applications for the next class close on March 26th.