On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we speak to Kentucky FFA alum Bethanie Cantrell, Compensation and Stock Analyst for Texas Roadhouse. Bethanie discusses her journey from being a Kentucky FFA member to her current role at Texas Roadhouse. She highlights the similarities between the two organizations, calling FFA the "foundation of anybody's career." Links: Texas Roadhouse Murray State University Bubba’s 33 Jaggers Kent Taylor, Texas Roadhouse Founder From now until September 30, 10%...
Aug 18, 2025•31 min•Season 3Ep. 1
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Kenny Brammell — East Carter FFA advisor and 2025 Career & Technical Teacher of the Year — and his grandson, Blaine Brammell — a 2024 Kentucky FFA state officer — discuss their experiences in agriculture education and leadership. Links: 2024 Ag Teachers Change Lives Award Recipient East Carter FFA Big Sandy River Region State Vice President University of Kentucky Forestry...
Aug 11, 2025•22 min•Season 2Ep. 30
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann welcome back Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell. Jonathan reflects on his first year in office, sharing key highlights like boosting agricultural economic development, championing the "Food is Medicine" initiative and introducing agriculture education into elementary schools. He also dives into the importance of fostering leadership in FFA, building connections for Kentucky agriculture on a national stage and cr...
Aug 04, 2025•47 min
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Jeff Hayes — former agriculture teacher and current Kentucky FFA Program Development Specialist — shares his journey from inspiring future educators to the importance of hands-on learning and FFA involvement. Links: Rockcastle County FFA
Jul 28, 2025•29 min•Season 2Ep. 28
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Taylor Nash — former Kentucky FFA state officer and current Director of Young Farmer Programs at Kentucky Farm Bureau — shares his inspiring journey from FFA to a leadership role supporting young farmers, emphasizing the value of grassroots advocacy and community engagement. Links: Kentucky Farm Bureau Collegiate Farm Bureau Kentucky Farmland Transition Initiative The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter Yuka...
Jul 21, 2025•22 min•Season 2Ep. 27
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann introduce Cassidy Hutchison, the new Program Manager for the Kentucky FFA Foundation. Cassidy discusses her background with FFA, her previous role at Pratt Industries and her excitement to work with the Kentucky FFA Foundation. She’ll be leading Kentucky Teach Ag, Kentucky FFA Works and grant writing efforts. Links: Murray State University Pratt Industries KY FFA Works Teach Ag Kentucky Facebook Teach Ag Kentucky Instagram...
Jul 14, 2025•17 min•Season 2Ep. 27
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we're sharing Trenton Page's retiring address at Kentucky FFA President at the 2025 Kentucky FFA State Convention.
Jul 07, 2025•12 min•Season 2Ep. 26
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we're sharing Avery Cole's retiring address at Kentucky FFA Vice President at the 2025 Kentucky FFA State Convention.
Jun 30, 2025•16 min•Season 2Ep. 25
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we're sharing a highlight from the 2025 Kentucky FFA State Convention — Coach Mark Pope sharing encouraging words with our members.
Jun 23, 2025•13 min•Season 2Ep. 24
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we chat with Caroline Groth, former Kentucky FFA president and current national FFA Eastern Region Vice President. Caroline discusses her role as a national officer, which includes chapter visits, industry tours, legislative visits and attending state conventions. Caroline emphasizes authenticity in leadership and the importance of reflection and gratitude. Links: National FFA State Officers Locust Trace Cargill JR Shinkle That Sounds Fun Agri-Pulse...
Jun 16, 2025•24 min•Season 2Ep. 23
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, David Wayne, Executive Director of the Farm Service Agency, shares his career trajectory from growing up in Taylor County to his current federal appointment. David explains the role of the Farm Service Agency and highlights the interconnectedness of USDA agencies like Rural Development (RD), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Risk Management Agency (RMA). Links: Farm Service Agency University of Kentucky Natural Resource Conservation ...
Jun 09, 2025•34 min•Season 2Ep. 22
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Kentucky FFA State Reporter Luke Mullins and State President Trenton Page discuss their impactful year as state officers, highlighting personal growth, leadership lessons and the unique challenges and rewards of their roles. They also share an exclusive preview of the upcoming Kentucky FFA State Convention. Links: Trimble County FFA Henderson Community College Great American Crop Insurance Trenton Page and Jacob Rudy Kentucky FFA State Convention Da...
Jun 02, 2025•35 min•Season 2Ep. 21
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we hear from Kiah Twisselman Burchett — a California cattle rancher turned international motivational speaker. Known as "Coach Kiah," she empowers others to love themselves deeper, care better for themselves and find joy. She shares her journey from a rural cattle ranch to becoming a speaker and social media influencer. Kiah will be the keynote speaker for the Kentucky FFA Leadership Training Center this summer. Links: Matthew Estes and Madison Wrig...
May 26, 2025•39 min•Season 2Ep. 20
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, leadership and conflict resolution speaker Dallin Cooper shares his journey from a sheep ranch in Wyoming to becoming a keynote speaker. Links: Aiden Manley and Colton Rudd Seeds of Success Get on the Bull by Dallin Cooper Dallin Cooper on Instagram Dallin Cooper on LinkedIn...
May 19, 2025•40 min•Season 2Ep. 18
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann are joined by Julie Fritsch, the creative behind Kentucky FFA's brand and storytelling. Julie's journey as a farmer and FFA mom have led her to the vital role she plays in helping Kentucky FFA thrive. Links: Fayette County 4-H National Association of Agricultural Educators (NAAE) Julie Fritsch Creative Bourbon County Farm Bureau University of Kentucky Agricultural Education UK Invests They All Fall The Same by Wes Brown Andrew a...
May 12, 2025•37 min•Season 2Ep. 18
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann chat with Austin Hazelwood, a past Kentucky FFA state president and now a Sensory and Innovation Scientist at Maker's Mark. Hear about Austin's journey from a dairy farm in Mercer County to the distilling industry and how he continues to support Kentucky FFA. Links: Maker's Mark Vendome Copper and Brass Works Independent Stave Company Peterson Farms Josh Mitcham...
May 05, 2025•38 min•Season 2Ep. 17
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we welcome Aaron Harned, a business coach with the Kentucky Small Business Development Center. Aaron shares his journey from being a Kentucky FFA state officer to helping entrepreneurs and small business owners across the state. Tune in to hear his insights on business planning, the importance of community and the impact of Kentucky FFA members. Links: Kentucky Small Business Development Center Kentucky SBDC - Paducah on Facebook Western Kentucky Un...
Apr 28, 2025•39 min•Season 2Ep. 16
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we talk with Matthew Estes and Madison Wright, two FFA members and hosts of the Rooted in Ag podcast. They share their FFA journeys, how they started their podcast and their insights on communicating agriculture to fellow FFA members. Links: Rooted in Ag podcast Barren County FFA Owen County FFA SAE grants University of Kentucky Agriculture Economics University of Kentucky Community Leadership Development...
Apr 21, 2025•39 min•Season 2Ep. 15
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we're joined by Addison Coffey of Pitman Creek Wholesale to discuss career opportunities for Kentucky FFA members through Kentucky FFA Works. Addison details the available positions and what Pitman Creek Wholesale looks for in potential employees. Beyond the job specifics, we discuss the company's culture, its growth and Addison's personal motivations as a leader. Links: Pitman Creek Wholesale University of Kentucky Gatton College of Business and Ec...
Apr 14, 2025•29 min•Season 2Ep. 14
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we talk with Brandon Reed about his deep roots in Kentucky FFA, from his time as a member and state president to his current role as Executive Director of the Kentucky Office of Agriculture Policy. We discuss how FFA shaped his leadership skills and influenced his decision to pursue a career in public service. Links: LaRue County FFA Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy Kentucky FFA Leadership Training Center...
Apr 07, 2025•41 min•Season 2Ep. 13
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we're joined by Colton Rudd and Aiden Manley of Menifee County FFA. Colton and Aiden share their passion for FFA and how they got their start in podcasting.
Mar 31, 2025•25 min•Season 2Ep. 7
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Jeff Hayes — former agriculture teacher and current Kentucky FFA Program Development Specialist — shares his journey from inspiring future educators to the importance of hands-on learning and FFA involvement. Links: Rockcastle County FFA
Mar 24, 2025•29 min•Season 2Ep. 11
On this episode of Growing Kentucky’s Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann are joined by Robin Alexander — Operations Manager at Republic Services — to discuss exciting career opportunities for Kentucky FFA members. Robin shares insights into the company’s partnership with Kentucky FFA Works, the value of hands-on learning and the benefits of starting a career with Republic Services. Links: Republic Services Kentucky FFA Works...
Mar 17, 2025•28 min•Season 2Ep. 10
On this episode of Growing Kentucky’s Leaders, Kentucky FFA State Officers Noah Mallory and Paige Cash discuss their FFA journeys, leadership experiences and how the organization has shaped their personal and professional growth. From traveling across the state to engaging with members and balancing college life, Noah and Paige share their insights, challenges and favorite moments from their year of service. Links: 2024-25 State Officers Rockcastle County FFA Eastern Kentucky University Muhlenbe...
Mar 10, 2025•23 min•Season 2Ep. 9
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Whitney Monin — Seed Lead at Kentucky American Seed — shares her journey from FFA member to agronomy expert, highlighting the invaluable skills FFA provides for careers in agriculture. She also discusses Kentucky American Seed's partnership with Kentucky FFA Works, career opportunities for students and the company's commitment to innovation and farmer-first values. Links: Kentucky American Seed Western Kentucky University Agriculture Western Kentuck...
Mar 03, 2025•43 min•Season 2Ep. 8
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, 2024-25 state officers Ty Elrod and Parker Keyes share their journeys from freshmen navigating challenges during the pandemic to becoming leaders in agriculture and Kentucky FFA. From honing public speaking skills to facilitating workshops, they highlight how FFA has shaped their confidence and leadership. Links: 2024-25 state officers Marshall County FFA Gallatin County FFA Coty Back Caroline Groth Murray State University Agribusiness Jones Brother...
Feb 24, 2025•23 min•Season 2Ep. 7
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann welcome back Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell. Jonathan reflects on his first year in office, sharing key highlights like boosting agricultural economic development, championing the "Food is Medicine" initiative and introducing agriculture education into elementary schools. He also dives into the importance of fostering leadership in FFA, building connections for Kentucky agriculture on a national stage and cr...
Feb 17, 2025•47 min•Season 2Ep. 6
This week on Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we welcome two inspiring guests from Green County — veteran agriculture teacher James Bonta and 2024 Kentucky FFA State Star in Agribusiness, Carsen Thompson. Listen as they share stories of mentorship, entrepreneurship and community support. Carsen discusses how he turned a family gift into a thriving business, selling refurbished farm equipment parts across the globe, while Mr. Bonta reflects on the impact of FFA projects on students’ lives. Links: Gree...
Feb 10, 2025•25 min•Season 2Ep. 5
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Kyle Kelly — a Kentucky FFA Foundation board member and Director of Public Affairs at Kentucky Farm Bureau — shares his journey from growing up on a family farm to becoming a passionate advocate for agriculture. Kyle discusses the importance of public policy in farming, gives a preview of Kentucky's legislative priorities for 2025 and share tips on how constituents can make their voices heard. Links: Kentucky FFA Foundation Board Member Kentucky Far...
Feb 03, 2025•36 min•Season 2Ep. 4
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann chat with Sarah Butler, Recruitment Coordinator at Wright Implement. Sarah shares her inspiring journey from education to agriculture and highlights her passion for helping students find fulfilling career paths. They discuss the value of career exploration, the opportunities available at Wright Implement and the transformative Kentucky FFA Works program. Links: Wright Implement Precision Ag Kentucky FFA Works 2025 Kentucky FFA W...
Jan 27, 2025•38 min•Season 2Ep. 3
