535 Chandler Janes Won't Drive Cart
Shark Farmer Podcast — Chandler Janes In this episode of Shark Farmer, Rob talks with Chandler Janes of Urbana, Illinois about life, farming, faith, and the path that shaped her career in agriculture. Chandler shares how growing up in central Illinois, losing her dad unexpectedly at a young age, and finding her place on the family farm influenced both her personal life and professional journey. They kick things off with a lively conversation about Beck's Hybrids' big event and the energy of ag shows, including how farmers and ag professionals tend to bring a more positive attitude than the average trade show crowd. Chandler, who works on the digital marketing team at Beck's, talks about the trust farmers place in seed decisions and how the rewards program has helped build long-term confidence on her farm. From there, the conversation turns more personal. Chandler opens up about studying agriculture leadership education at the University of Illinois, then earning a master's degree in agriculture production after her father passed away unexpectedly when she was 20. She talks honestly about grief, faith, and how the loss pushed her to stay close to home, support the family farm, and build a life in Champaign-Urbana. The episode also explores: Chandler's role in agriculture marketing and social media Her experience working for an ag agency and Precision Planting A memorable trip to Germany through an agriculture policy program How she and her husband Connor learned to farm together The realities of raising a young child while balancing work and farm life Why authenticity matters more than polish in interviews and leadership Chandler's perspective is grounded, thoughtful, and refreshingly honest. She talks about resilience not as a buzzword, but as something shaped by real life — tragedy, responsibility, family, and choosing to keep moving forward. Key Takeaways Farm shows and ag events can create a uniquely positive, community-driven atmosphere. Loss and adversity can reshape career direction and personal purpose. Authenticity builds stronger connection than a polished persona. Expanding your network and job shadowing are powerful ways to enter agriculture careers. Family, faith, and adaptability are central to Chandler's life and work. Memorable Themes Resilience after loss Faith in difficult seasons Family farming and shared responsibility Agriculture careers for young women Marketing, communication, and leadership in ag Guest Bio Chandler Janes is an agriculture marketing professional from Urbana, Illinois, with experience in social media, paid media, dealership marketing, and ag communications. She works for Beck's Hybrids and remains closely involved in her family farm while balancing work, motherhood, and community life.
