113 | How Ambrook Is Modernizing Money Management in Agriculture

In Today’s Episode:

In this episode of Leaders Of The West, we’re diving into the intersection of agriculture, technology, and leadership with Mackenzie Burnett—co-founder and CEO of Ambrook, a company building modern financial tools for farmers and ranchers.

Mackenzie’s journey into ag wasn’t a conventional one. With a background in software and public policy, she didn’t grow up in the industry—but she felt drawn to it. What started with a curiosity about ag evolved into a full-blown mission: helping producers better manage the complex, often frustrating financial side of their operations.

In the episode, Mackenzie shares:

• How asking questions (and really listening) helped her build trust in rural and ag communities
• Why financial clarity is a critical need—and opportunity—for ag producers
• The real behind-the-scenes of startup life in a niche industry
• Why she sees feedback as a gift, not a criticism
• Her unexpected side passion: amateur boxing—and how it parallels the resilience needed to lead a startup

Resources & Links:

• The Inner Ring by C.S. Lewis
• Join The Directory Of The West

Connect with Mackenzie:

• Follow on X @ciaomack
• Visit the Ambrook website

Connect with Jessie:

• Follow on Instagram @ofthewest.co and @mrsjjarv
• Follow on Facebook @jobsofthewest
• Check out the Of The West website

More About Mackenzie:

Mackenzie Burnett is the CEO and cofounder of Ambrook, a startup building financial management software for U.S. agriculture. Ambrook’s mission is to build a more resilient and prosperous America. Mackenzie has prior experience working in community nonprofits, water asset management and open source software infrastructure. She holds an M.A. in international policy and climate security from Stanford University, and a B.A. in government and politics from the University of Maryland, College Park.

More about Leaders Of The West Podcast:

Leaders Of The West is a podcast for innovators and change-makers in the ag and western industries. Hosted by Jessie Jarvis, the Founder of Of The West, our mission with Leaders Of The West is to foster a community of pioneers, innovators, and leaders who want to be at the forefront of what’s next. 

Whether it’s a guest episode where we’re digging into the blueprints behind our favorite industry businesses, discussing the innovation and strategies that have allowed family farming and ranching operations to continue on for another generation, to episodes with honest conversations from entrepreneurs who have risked it all on their dreams, or leaders detailing how to create a company culture so strong that you couldn’t pay your employees to leave. 

These conversations are meant to encourage the leaders of today and inspire the next generation of trailblazers. 

In addition to bringing in guests, you’ll also find some solo episodes, where Jessie shares the lessons she’s learned throughout her journey as a rancher, entrepreneur, wife, and mother. 

Whether you’re a farmer, a rancher, an equine lover, someone headed up the leadership ladder, an ag business owner, a western sports athlete, an entrepreneur, or someone who just loves the western way of life—this is the place for you. 

You’ll find new episodes every week. Don’t forget to subscribe, so you never miss a show!