Lessons from a Legend: A Conversation with Mark Lambert

What does it take to build an agricultural communications program from the ground up? For Mark Lambert, former Director of Communications for IL Corn and the National Corn Growers Association, the answer is creativity, persistence, and a willingness to take risks.

We sat down with Mark recently for a walk down memory lane and came away with lessons that are just as relevant today as when he first walked through IL Corn's doors.

When Mark started, there was exactly one computer in the office. He borrowed it on day two. From that scrappy beginning, he helped shape one of the most recognized ag communications programs in the country.

Despite how much communications has changed, Mark is clear that the fundamentals haven't. "It's all about people," he said. "The tools on how we reach them today are different, but it's about engaging people with a message that is going to get their attention."

That philosophy drove some of IL Corn's most memorable campaigns - from the bold "No Tanks, Iraq" bumper sticker, to a Metro station takeover in Washington D.C., to the creation of Captain Cornelius and the Corn Farmers Coalition. Many of those efforts, including the family farmer message, are still alive and well today.

His advice to farmers on advocacy? Keep it simple. "A 30-second email saying this is affecting my farm...that's enough. Your head matters, so stick it in the game."

Thanks for the lessons, Mark. You're an IL Corn legend.

Watch the full conversation in video above on IL Corn TV.