Send us a text

In this deeply moving episode of Coffee in the Barn, host Casey Bradley welcomes Adrienne Woodward, a leader at United Animal Health, to share her remarkable journey as a senior figure in the swine industry and a cancer survivor. Adrienne’s story is one of resilience and strength, detailing how her battle with cancer has shaped her leadership, life, and passion for helping others.

Adrienne’s background is both diverse and inspiring. Growing up in Texas as a self-proclaimed “horse girl,” she studied equine sciences at West Texas A&M University. Her career took an unexpected turn toward the swine industry, where she flourished professionally. However, her diagnosis with cancer was a pivotal life event.

Key Takeaways from Adrienne’s Journey:

1. Strength in Vulnerability: Adrienne explains how embracing vulnerability helped her manage her fears during cancer treatment and as a leader. "It’s not about being fearless; it’s about feeling the fear and moving forward." This openness influences her leadership approach, where she now values transparency and humanity.
2. Compassionate Leadership: After her treatment, Adrienne reflects on how her illness enhanced her empathy as a leader. She now prioritizes understanding both the professional and personal challenges of her team members, fostering a culture of support.
3. Balancing Career and Health: Adrienne shares the difficulties of managing a demanding career while undergoing treatment. She credits her support system, both at work and at home, for maintaining balance, reinforcing the importance of self-care and delegation.
4. Adaptability in the Face of Uncertainty: Cancer taught Adrienne the unpredictability of life. She encourages adaptability and resilience, stating, "You can’t control everything, but you can control how you respond."
5. Diversity and Inclusion: Adrienne discusses how her experiences have reinforced her commitment to diversity and inclusion. As a leader at United Animal Health, she promotes an environment where every voice is heard, emphasizing trust and respect for diverse perspectives.
6. Mentorship's Impact: Adrienne has mentored many throughout her career. "Mentorship isn’t just about professional growth; it’s about personal growth as well," she says, highlighting the critical role mentorship plays, especially for women entering male-dominated industries.
7. Navigating a Male-Dominated Industry: Adrienne recalls how she overcame imposter syndrome and the evolution of the industry, where more women are now taking leadership roles.
8. The Legacy of Cancer: Adrienne concludes with a reflection on how cancer continues to shape her life and career. "Cancer doesn’t just go away; it leaves a mark," she says, but that mark is a reminder of her strength.

This episode is a testament to resilience, compassion, and leadership. Adrienne’s story will resonate with anyone who has faced adversity and emerged stronger.

Support the show

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn:
@cofeeinthebarn