Cleo Franklin Jr., President and CEO of Franklin Strategic Solutions Interviewed on the Growing our Future Podcast

Mission Matters Podcast Agency distributes the Growing Our Future Podcast

Cleo Franklin Jr. owes his fundamental values and drive to further agriculture education to his parents. They grew up in rural America and both grew up on farms in Missouri, Mississippi, Arkansas and Alabama. They set the example by leading and always told Franklin, “If it is to be, then it is up to me.” Taking that advice to heart, Franklin has worked for three major global brands over the last 30 years including John Deere, Case New Holland and Mahindra USA.

As a retired executive, Franklin is devoting his time to Franklin Strategic Solutions where the focus is data driven decision making, tactical execution and streamlined processes with a focus on Agriculture. Franklin recalled his parents instilling in him the concept that “To receive consideration, one must give consideration.” This simple value has been carried with him throughout his life. He has been able to return this important value by sharing his business knowledge and insight throughout his career, but also through his countless hours consulting, mentoring and advising others. This is evidence of his passion for leadership both personally and professionally which has led to authoring books as well as sitting on a variety of organizational boards. Franklin says that he is always asking himself, “How can I bring a positive impact to businesses and initiatives that will prepare the next generation of students to take on the global challenges and opportunities in the agriculture world and beyond?”

Transformational change in the field of agriculture will take time. There are many challenges that need solutions. Franklin gives a glimpse into them stating that “We need to innovate at a more rapid pace with less land…at every level…scarcity of water, rising input and production costs…whether an ag producer or another organization…and labor issues… People are looking for solutions today with increased food…