For some young livestock exhibitors, success is defined by a shiny belt buckle or a big purple banner. However, the owner and CEO of Timmons Feed & Farm Supply, Chad Timmons, encourages each young exhibitor to define success for their own project, their own way.
“We want people to be able to take two goats to the county fair, have them behave for the exhibitors, and have them feel they have succeeded, just as much as the family who travels to Louisville and captures that purple banner,” Timmons said. “It’s okay for each family to define success for your family and celebrate your own wins, both big and small.”
Something for Everyone
Timmons said his family-owned and operated business offers feed and show supplies for every level of livestock exhibitor, from first-year novices to experienced showmen. He and his wife started Timmons Feed & Farm Supply in Lebanon, Indiana, in 2010 and became BioZyme® dealers shortly after to offer high-quality nutritional products to their customers. Not only do they sell feed and other show supplies, but Timmons said it is important to offer advice and help their customers succeed every step of the way.
“We don’t care if you are feeding and showing a $15 rabbit or $15,000 steer, if a family wants and needs help, we want to be there for them, every step of the way,” Timmons said.
Timmons, who is passionate that livestock is a great tool to raise kids with, has a special place in his heart for the less experienced kids, who are still learning the ropes, but can “define their own success.” He knows the hours and dedication it takes to hang a banner, and he appreciates the business that he receives from those customers. However, he knows the majority of young people are still learning the ropes, and he hopes their ultimate rewards are the networking, responsibility, work ethic, and ability to handle the ups and downs that life hands them.
A Business Built on Relationships
Most would think of a feed and farm supply store as a place to purchase feed and farm supplies. Yet, Timmons wants to be known as the place where values are held high, relationships are important, and a customer can come for help or advice.
Kaylee Tepe, the office manager, tells about the initiatives Timmons Feed & Farm Supply has taken to encourage community involvement within their business.
“Brock (Timmons) has encouraged people to grow their own food. We even sell local milk and dairy products from a farmer in the store because we believe in the local food movement. We also have a chicken plucker that our customers can borrow if they raise their own chickens,” Tepe said.
Regardless of if its local food or working with customers, the Timmons’ hearts always come back to the youth. They started a Feed Success Essay program for young people to write a small essay to explain what they learn from their project. They were also one of the title sponsors for the inaugural 2025 Indiana Youth Expo, giving area youth one more chance to showcase their livestock each summer.
Timmons Feed and Farm Supply might not define its true success with a purple banner. However, in our books, they are the epitome of care that comes full circle, and that’s a success for BioZyme!
