Real Talk. Real Ag. Real Impact.
I bring my own down-to-earth storytelling, lived experiences and practical takeaways to every stage, workshop, or breakout session. Whether you’re looking to start hard conversations about mental health, improve workplace communication, or ignite the courage to embrace change, these talks offer connection and clarity in the language of agriculture.
Featured presentations
Silos and Silver Linings
Finding growth on the other side of your comfort zone
We all live in silos. By that, I mean those safe, familiar places where change feels uncomfortable. But what happens when we step out—or are pushed out—of them? In this candid talk, I share three pivotal “silo-breaking” moments from my life that reshaped my career and mindset. From leaving the family farm to navigating divorce in ag, I explore how embracing change and seeking the silver lining can transform mental health and personal growth.
Topics Include
- Silos as comfort zones
- Why change is so hard yet necessary
- Mental health in agriculture
- Real stories of resilience and reinvention
Growing Beyond Borders: Bridging the Language & Culture Gap in Ag
Communication that connects, not divides
In this energetic, hands-on workshop, I blend personal stories, linguistic insight, and practical tools to help ag professionals navigate the language and cultural gaps between English and Spanish speakers. Learn how to build empathy, increase productivity, and create safer, more inclusive workplaces across ag sectors.
Topics Include
- Cultural awareness & humility
- The real differences between English and Spanish
- Strategies to overcome ignorance and bias in ag
- Simple language games, roleplay, and real-life scenarios
Spanglish 101: Why Code-Switching is Your Superpower
Because blending languages is a sign of brilliance, not confusion
Mixing English and Spanish isn’t a mistake. In fact, it’s a skill. This interactive session proves that “Spanglish” is communication gold. Through games, challenges, and hilarious decoding exercises, participants learn to embrace imperfection, build confidence and connect across cultures.
Topics Include
- Mini-Spanish lessons that don’t suck
- “Caveman Talk” decoding game
- Group laughs & eye-opening discoveries
- Permission to be proudly imperfect
Entrepreneurship Unmasked
How failure became the foundation for something better
What do you do when life burns it all down? You build something better. In my raw, inspiring journey from losing a farm and marriage to creating, I reveal how pain can fuel purpose. This talk is for the dreamers, the doers, and the ones in the trenches wondering if they can keep going.
Topics Include
- Real talk on failure, healing, and resilience
- Reimagining success through service and story
- The unexpected
Book Katie to speak at your next event
Whether it’s a keynote, breakout session, leadership workshop, or staff training, Katie delivers dynamic, heartfelt, and interactive talks customized for your audience.
Previous Speaking Engagements
Purdue University Lunch Hour Webinar: Reaching Across the Cultural Border (February 2025)
The Chesapeake Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture 2025 Future Harvest Conference: Cultivating Community: Bridging the Language & Culture Gap in Agriculture (January 2025)
Penn Manor High School: The Future of Spanish In Agriculture (December 2024)
American Dairy Association North East: Spanish Virtual Spanish Farm Tour: Twin Mills Dairy (October 2024)
USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Hispanic Heritage Month Webinar: Reaching Across the Cultural Border (October 2024)