How many times have we walked into a meeting feeling skeptical—about the people, the topic, or the outcome? I know I have. I often enter with preconceived notions or worry that a difficult conversation or controversial issue might arise. But more often than not, something unexpected unfolds.

What I’ve come to realize is that I’m in a room with people who share many of the same values.  In those moments, the skepticism starts to fade, and I feel a sense of teamwork and purpose. What began as an uncertain meeting transforms into a place for open discussion and collaboration. The power of shared values creates an environment where even the most challenging topics can be talked about with respect and curiosity.

In our recent podcast with Eugene Hurst, President of Agriteer, he shared how trust, humility, and courage among the leadership group opened the door to new possibilities during the formation of their newly merged company. It wasn’t easy, and this kind of change doesn’t happen by accident—it requires a conscious, collective effort.

I had the privilege to take part in these leadership meetings and witnessed firsthand the group’s collective commitment to truly understanding one another. Confronting difficult issues became a shared journey, not a burden for one person to carry alone. Instead of being defensive, the group focused on common goals such as finding solutions, building understanding, and fostering a sense of belonging—everything you would hope for when forming a new company.

These experiences have reminded me that skepticism, or doubt, often arises as a protective response to the unknown. But when we enter meetings with an open mind, we give ourselves a chance to find new ideas and unexpected possibilities. Each meeting is an opportunity to learn, grow, and strengthen our commitment to one another.

So, the next time you walk into a meeting feeling uncertain or skeptical, remember: you’re entering a space where something great could happen. Embrace the discomfort, dive into the conversation, and allow shared values to guide you toward understanding and teamwork. There is a good chance you will leave the room with a renewed sense of hope and connection.

You can find Parts 1 and 2 of The Agriteer Merger story series linked below:

• Part 1 -Cultivating Unity (Podcast with Roger North, Craig Schloneger, & Eugene Hurst)
• Part 2 – The 3 Key Players (Video with Josh Keefer)