You Are a Piece of the Puzzle Macey Igo
Embracing Your Unique Role in Agriculture and the Power of Authenticity
Macey Hurst’s journey in agriculture is a powerful reminder that every path is unique, and success often comes from embracing opportunities and staying true to oneself. From growing up in Missouri to launching Lady Livestock Company with her mom and sister, Macey’s story is filled with lessons about resilience, humility, and the importance of asking for what you want.
Macey's passion for cattle and agriculture began at a young age, immersed in a family legacy of working with livestock. But her journey took an unexpected turn when her parents split up, and she was faced with the challenge of rebuilding a ranching operation from scratch with her mom and sister. What seemed like a daunting task quickly turned into a chance for rebirth. The decision to build a business with her family wasn’t easy, but it sparked a deep sense of purpose and community.
The core of Macey’s story revolves around how authenticity and the willingness to ask for what you want can open doors. “What’s the worst they can do? Say no,” Macey’s mom’s advice has been a guiding principle for her. From asking for t-shirts in the drive-through to reaching out to industry leaders, Macey encourages others to be bold and ask for opportunities, even when the outcome is uncertain.
Her entrepreneurial journey is rooted in a balance between tradition and innovation. While managing Lady Livestock with her family, Macey has also worked in sales, where her expertise in agricultural magazines and her ability to network has connected her with people across the industry. This dual experience allows her to serve her agricultural community in a broader sense—offering knowledge from both inside the ranching world and the business side of agriculture.
One of the most important lessons Macey emphasizes is the power of community. As women in agriculture, there are still stereotypes to break, and sometimes, it feels like you have to prove your worth. But Macey has learned that being true to yourself and your passions is the key to success. There’s no one mold for women in ag, and embracing the diversity of roles—from ranching and marketing to sales and leadership—only strengthens the industry as a whole.
“The work we do, the things we’re passionate about—they all contribute to something bigger than ourselves.”
Through her journey, Macey has also learned the importance of embracing challenges and growth. In her work with Lady Livestock, there have been ups and downs, but each obstacle has brought valuable lessons. Whether it’s navigating family dynamics, handling setbacks like drought, or balancing ranch life with a full-time job, Macey’s story reflects the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and community support.
Mental health is another area where Macey is passionate about advocating for change. Growing up around agricultural communities, Macey saw firsthand how mental health struggles were often kept hidden. But as she’s grown, she’s recognized that asking for help is one of the most powerful things you can do for yourself. In agriculture, the pressures can feel isolating, and it’s crucial to have open conversations about mental health. Macey encourages others to seek therapy, open up about their struggles, and remember that it’s okay to ask for help—whether it’s from a professional or a trusted friend.
The message Macey shares is clear: be authentic, take opportunities as they come, and ask for what you want. Whether you’re building your own livestock business, working on a family ranch, or pursuing another avenue in agriculture, everyone has a valuable role to play. And as women in agriculture, we must continue to support and uplift each other, celebrate our differences, and encourage the next generation to rise with us.
