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Effectively Engaging Producers

Kiley Fleming and David Stephens

Summary

The session looks at how our interactions and interpersonal dynamics can be framed in a way that leads to constructive outcomes through authentic relationship building. By mindfully implementing neutrality, open-minded practices, and problem-solving skills, participants will gain confidence and appreciation for the importance of establishing relationships with producers founded on respect, trust, and reciprocity.

Kiley Fleming Ed. D., PHR, SHRM-CP:
Kiley Fleming serves as the executive director of Iowa Mediation Service and founder of outSIGHTin. In these roles, she oversees statewide mediation and conflict management efforts, along with providing consultation services through private individual and group coaching.

With a Doctorate in Interdisciplinary Leadership that is paired with degrees in Human Resource Development and Psychology, Kiley has the expertise to design impactful interpersonal dynamics and communication training. She is also well-equipped to conduct conflict management and mediation sessions, as she has done throughout her Human Resources and consulting career. Drawing from various industry experiences, along with leaning into her Certified Life Coach credentialing, Kiley has vast competencies dealing with personal and professional dynamics that impact goal achievement.

She is a master facilitator for the International Farm Transition Network, which helps nationwide efforts of certifying individuals in best practices surrounding agricultural succession planning.
As the author of two books, Conflict Imagery: Developing a Reflective Framework and Discovering Self Imagery, she helps readers authentically name their internal scripts in tangible ways. Through the practice of identifying personal metaphors and images to convey core belief systems, the creation of shared understanding among parties can be formed. Above all else, her greatest privilege is raising her three teenage children.

David J. Stephens:
David works within the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture for the Southern Risk Management Education Center, (SRMEC) as a Navigator Specialist enhancing understanding of federal crop insurance. He has over 40 years of professional experience including Accounting, Technology Support Management, Business Development Consulting and Agriculture Rural Community Outreach.
In 2023, David Stephens joined SRMEC focused on improving the understanding and application of Risk Management Practices in the small farm community of the southeastern section of this country. He has participated in and presented at numerous conferences, meetings, workshops, Ag Field Days, and farm visits across the Southern region. Previous to SRMEC work, David spent eleven years working with an Oklahoma community-based organization where he served as the Director of Outreach. He is committed to supporting small agricultural producers and rural communities by providing information, instruction, and consultation to improve their access to USDA programs, new practices, and technologies essential for success and sustainability.

Details

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