Corey Rosenbusch: Fertilizer, Food Security, and the Fight Behind the Headlines

In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader, Mark sits down with Corey Rosenbusch, CEO of The Fertilizer Institute, to unpack what’s really happening in Washington — and why it directly impacts growers, retailers, and agribusiness leaders across the country. Corey shares how fertilizer has been elevated to a global stage over the past year. From tariffs on Canadian potash to sanctions on Belarus and global urea disruptions, fertilizer now sits at the center of food security, national security, and geopolitical negotiations. One key reminder: fertilizer is a global commodity. Prices are driven by worldwide supply and demand — not local preference. When China limits phosphate exports or global supply tightens, U.S. growers feel it immediately. Corey also gives a behind-the-scenes look at what trade associations actually do. From securing critical tariff exemptions during planting season to preventing bio-stimulants from being regulated like pesticides, the work happening in D.C. often determines whether products move efficiently — or get buried in red tape. Another major focus is nutrient stewardship. The 4R framework — right source, right rate, right time, right place — becomes even more critical in tight-margin seasons. Efficiency isn’t optional; it’s essential. Beyond policy, Corey talks about leadership. When he stepped into TFI six years ago, he asked his team to define their culture — and got 25 different answers. That sparked a deliberate effort to define core values, behaviors, and weekly culture reinforcement. For Corey, intentional leadership starts with clarity. This episode is a reminder that what feels like “noise” in Washington often has very real implications at the farm gate. Listen if you are: Navigating tough fertilizer pricing conversations Leading in a volatile policy environment Curious how global supply chains impact local decisions Interested in culture-building inside mission-driven organizations