Growing the Future

Countdown to Convergence Conference: Matt Havens Keynote

Episode Summary

This episode previews the return of the Convergence Conference, taking place February 3–5, 2026 in Regina. Dan Aberhart sits down with keynote speaker Matt Havens, a former Fortune 50 executive turned leadership expert, to talk about how humor, clarity, and multi‑generational collaboration can help farmers thrive. They explore how simplifying complexity beats burnout and why bridging generations is key to the future of agriculture.

Episode Notes

In this conversation, Dan Aberhart introduces the upcoming Convergence Conference, now in its third year and happening February 3–5, 2026 in Regina. The banquet keynote speaker is Matt Havens — a leadership and generational expert with a background in corporate strategy and a knack for comedy.

Dan and Matt dive into the challenges of modern farm businesses, from information overload to multi‑generational dynamics. They discuss why simplicity beats burnout and how prioritizing what really matters can help cut through the noise. Matt shares how humor makes tough conversations easier and why we often have more in common across generations than we think. They also touch on the unique challenges of family farms — being hard on family, managing multiple age groups on one yard, and the importance of empathy.

The episode offers a taste of what Matt will deliver at Convergence 2026 and underscores why his message is right on point for anyone in agriculture. Tune in to hear practical ideas for leading with intention, building culture, and making space for real progress.