Running a farmer co-op today requires more from farmer-directors than ever before — global market exposure, major capital decisions, and regulatory complexity all impact the board’s work. Making sure that director education keeps pace is critical to co-op governance. Dr. Keri Jacobs, Executive Director of the Graduate Institute of Cooperative Leadership at the University of Missouri, has spent her career closing that knowledge and skills gap. In this episode, she and Duane Simpson dig into what effective co-op governance actually demands, why the profile of a farmer director has changed, and what thriving co-ops are doing to develop the boards they need. If you sit on a co-op board — or want to — this one's for you.

With special guest:

Dr. Keri Jacobs, Executive Director, Graduate Institute for Cooperative Leadership, University of Missouri

Cooperative Voice explores the ideas, stories, and people behind the cooperative movement. Join us for conversations about collaboration, community, and the innovative ways cooperatives are making a difference. Whether you're part of a co-op or simply curious about a people-first approach to business, you'll find inspiration, practical insights, and fresh perspectives in every episode.