What happens when a steakhouse becomes a catalyst for agricultural change? In this rich and thought-provoking episode, host Mark Jewell is joined by Tim Meagher, COO of Vanguard Hospitality in Sioux Falls, SD—operator of acclaimed restaurants like Minerva’s, Morrie’s Steakhouse, and Grill 26.

Tim shares how his team has redefined what it means to be intentional in the food business—partnering directly with local producers, prioritizing win-win relationships, and stewarding both community and land. This isn’t just farm-to-table. It’s culture-shaping leadership in action, driven by values, sustainability, and real connection.

If you're in ag, food, or leadership—this is a masterclass on doing business with integrity and long-term vision.

Key Takeaways:

🍽️ Partnership Over Transaction – Tim rejects the traditional “squeeze the supplier” model. Instead, he fosters long-term relationships with producers based on trust, communication, and shared values.

🌱 True Stewardship – From soil health to rotational grazing, Tim honors regenerative agriculture not just for quality’s sake—but because it’s the right thing to do. And it tastes better, too.

📦 Time Is the True Commodity – By locking in consistent pricing with local ranchers, Vanguard Hospitality avoids volatile market stress and frees up time to improve other parts of the business.

💡 Leadership Is Alignment – Whether hiring staff or selecting food partners, Tim seeks values alignment first—creating a resilient, joyful culture where people step up and support one another.

📚 Awareness Is Currency – Tim goes beyond the plate to understand the struggles and pressures faced by his partners—asking deeper questions, challenging assumptions, and learning what’s truly sustainable.

Notable Quotes:

“Once you become intentional about something, you have a responsibility to take action on it.” – Tim Meagher

“If you ignore the hard conversations, someone will eventually turn to a different route. Communication is everything.” – Tim Meagher

“Your current results are a reflection of your current standards.” – Mark Jewell

“In wine, ‘biodynamic’ is celebrated. In ag, ‘regenerative’ can make you lose friends. That has to change.” – Tim Meagher

“Awareness is currency. The more aware you become, the more powerful your leadership becomes.” – Tim Meagher

🎯 Action Steps:

🔹 Audit Your Relationships – Are your vendors or partners truly aligned with your values? Who might you need to reconnect with—or replace?

🔹 Invest in Awareness – Take time to learn about your customers, your supply chain, or your team. The soil tells a story—are you listening?

🔹 Raise Your Standards – What’s one standard you need to upgrade this quarter to reflect the kind of steward—and leader—you want to be?

🎟️ Attend the Next Thriving Leader Experience

📍 Sioux Falls, SD | August 19–20, 2025

An exclusive invite-only leadership dinner & workshop—join elite leaders in ag for a night of rich conversation, community, and growth. To inquire: Email [email protected].

🎧 Ready to rethink what it means to be intentional in business and food?

Hit play and join us at the intersection of leadership, agriculture, and community-driven innovation.