Growing Kentucky's Leaders is a podcast focused on highlighting Kentucky FFA's members and alumni for their work while in FFA and what they go on to do after. Hosted by Sheldon McKinney, Executive Director of the Kentucky FFA Foundation, and Ruth An Fink, Development Officer for the Kentucky FFA Foundation.
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 WrightRooted in AgKentucky FFA Leadership Training CenterKentucky Beef CouncilKentucky Cattlemen's AssociationKentucky Soybean BoardKentucky Department of Agriculture@coach_kiah on Instagram
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 RuddSeeds of SuccessGet on the Bull by Dallin CooperDallin Cooper on InstagramDallin Cooper on LinkedIn
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-HNational Association of Agricultural Educators (NAAE)Julie Fritsch CreativeBourbon County Farm BureauUniversity of Kentucky Agricultural EducationUK InvestsThey All Fall The Same by Wes BrownAndrew and Joe Fritsch show
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 MarkVendome Copper and Brass WorksIndependent Stave CompanyPeterson FarmsJosh Mitcham
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 CenterKentucky SBDC - Paducah on FacebookWestern Kentucky University AgricultureWestern Kentucky University Business AdministrationFFA Shark Tank grantsSAE grantsContact Aaron
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 podcastBarren County FFAOwen County FFASAE grantsUniversity of Kentucky Agriculture EconomicsUniversity of Kentucky Community Leadership Development
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 WholesaleUniversity of Kentucky Gatton College of Business and EconomicsKentucky FFA Works
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 FFAKentucky Office of Agricultural PolicyKentucky FFA Leadership Training Center
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.
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
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 ServicesKentucky FFA Works
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 OfficersRockcastle County FFAEastern Kentucky UniversityMuhlenberg County FFAMurray State UniversityKentucky FFA State ConventionKentucky Farm BureauLittle Women
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 SeedWestern Kentucky University AgricultureWestern Kentucky University CommunicationUniversity of Kentucky Integrated Plant and Soil SciencesKentucky FFA Workswhitney@kas.agOmega Phi Alpha
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 Brothers Farms Kentucky Welding Institute Washington Leadership Conference
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 creating a culture of innovation and gratitude within his team. Links: Kentucky Department of Agriculture Garrard County FFA Food is Medicine Give FFA Day Sign up for our newsletter! Caroline Groth Ag Tag program CASA of Lexington
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: Green County FFA 2024 State Star in Agribusiness Supervised Ag Experience Programs (SAE) AgRevolution Elizabethtown Community and Technical College Sign up for our newsletter!
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 Farm Bureau Public Affairs Ruth Ann wins Kentucky Farm Bureau's 2024 Discussion Meet Daniel Bustle Outstanding Farm Bureau Youth Kentucky General Assembly Nick Carter Farm to Frankfort on YouTube Kentucky Farm Life podcast
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 Works application Vincennes University John Deere Partnership kyffa.org Sign up for our newsletter! sbutler@wrightimp.com
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
Growing Kentucky's Leaders co-hosts Sheldon McKinney and Ruth Ann Fink as they celebrate a year of fostering leadership across Kentucky through heartfelt conversations and inspiring stories. From impactful advice to community contributions, discover how leaders are making a difference in the Bluegrass. Links: Top Moments of 2024: Part 1 Top Moments of 2024: Part 2 First episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry Nick Carter episode Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) Nuuly Walking pad
This week on Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Kentucky FFA Executive Secretary Matt Chaliff shares his journey of mentoring generations of FFA members, preserving the rich history of the organization and guiding the future of agricultural education. Links: Rockcastle County FFA UK Agriculture Education Jessamine County FFA Taylor County FFA Kentucky FFA Flickr Jonathan Shell, Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner
From leadership advice to the power of giving time, talent and treasure, listen in as we highlight some of our favorite moments on the podcast from the past year. Show notes: Joenelle Wetzler episode Amelia Tucker episode David Beck episode Niki Ellis episode Kirby Green episode
From leadership advice to the power of giving time, talent and treasure, listen in as we highlight some of our favorite moments on the podcast from the past year. Links: Coty Back Episode Anthony Koch Episode Conner Richardson Episode Toni Myers Episode Jeremy Hall Episode
This week on Growing Kentucky's Leaders, ninth-generation farmers and brothers, Riley and Colson Pierce share how family, innovation and a passion for community fuel their vision for the future of farming. Links: Riley Pierce, State Star Farmer Southwestern FFA Total Acre Precision Technology Institute AGCO Corporation
This week on Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Bradon Burks — Director of Education for the Kentucky Cattlemen's Association — discusses the cattle industry, youth advocacy and how education shapes the future of farming. Links: Kentucky Cattlemen's Association Niki Ellis My Utmost for His Highest
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we chat with David Grigson, Community President of First Southern National Bank, about his journey from FFA member to banker, the importance of financial stewardship and how investing in young agricultural entrepreneurs shapes our communities. Links: Lincoln County FFA Campbellsville University Pitman Creek Wholesale The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Caleb Canada — the 2024 Kentucky FFA State Star in Agricultural Placement — shares his inspiring journey from a quiet student to a leader in the agricultural industry and active duty member of the Kentucky National Guard. Hear about his hands-on experiences, leadership growth and the challenges he overcame. Links: Whitley County FFA 2024 State Star in Agriculture Placement Moonlight Meat Processing Kentucky National Guard University of the Cumberlands
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Kentucky FFA State Officers Emily Chunglo and Jameson Williams share their personal journeys, leadership lessons and the pivotal role FFA has played in building their confidence and skills. Links: Mercer County FFA WKU Agriculture WKU Communications Menifee County FFA MSU Agriculture Education Kentucky FFA Grants
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Kirby Green shares her journey from a farm in Breckenridge County to National Sales Manager at Mutiny Crop Performance. Kirby shares her career in agriculture, the life-changing impact of FFA and her dedication to mentorship and lifelong learning. Links: Kentucky FFA Foundation Board of Trustees Breckenridge County FFA Mutiny Crop Performance Sharpen: The Podcast for Young Professionals Murray State Agriculture Life Council by Laura Tremaine Essentialism by Greg McKeown Nate Bargatze Leanne Morgan
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Anthony Koch — Kentucky FFA Foundation board member and Director of Sales and Marketing at Hallway Feeds — shares his family's deep history in the equine industry. He discusses Hallway Feeds' role in equine nutrition, the importance of service and the wide range of career opportunities in the equine industry. Tune in for leadership insights, career advice and stories from Kentucky's horse country. Links: Kentucky FFA Foundation Board of Trustees Hallway Feeds Claiborne Farm Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE)
This week on Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Nicki Ellis, Executive Director of the Kentucky Pork Producers Association, shares insights into her leadership role, the scale of Kentucky's pork industry and career opportunities in agriculture. She reflects on how Kentucky FFA shaped her journey, her passion for advocacy and offers advice for young people looking to step into the field. Tune in to hear how Nicki balances everything from policy work to hands-on farming. Links: Kentucky Pork Producers University of Kentucky Career and Technical Education Leaders Eat Last
On this week's episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Dr. Tony Brannon — retired dean of Murray State University's Hutson School of Agriculture — shares his journey from the farm to his involvement in FFA and eventually his career in agricultural education. He discusses how FFA shaped his leadership skills and career, his transition into teaching and how he landed his role at Murray State University. Dr. Brannon emphasizes the importance of education, FFA's role in developing students and the need for seeking out opportunities beyond just earning a degree. Links: Hutson School of Agriculture at Murray State University Kentucky FFA Foundation Board 2024 Distinguished Rural Kentuckian Agriculture Future of America 2024 Distinguished Rural Kentuckian Video Racer Academy
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Devin Fuhrman of Nationwide Insurance discusses the role of agriculture educators and the significance of the Golden Owl Award, a Nationwide Insurance initiative recognizing outstanding agriculture teachers. Links: Nationwide Insurance Golden Owl Award Nominations
Kentucky FFA state officers Avery Cole and Mary Brooke Stith share their agricultural backgrounds and how FFA shaped their leadership journeys. They emphasize the importance of making every FFA member feel included. Links: South Warren FFA Meade County FFA Kentucky FFA State Officers Murray State Agricultural Science WKU Agriculture
On this of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann are joined by father-son duo Andrew Fritsch, an agriculture teacher and FFA advisor at Bourbon County High School, and Joe Fritsch, Bourbon County FFA member and Kentucky FFA State Talent winner. Andrew discusses his career as an agriculture teacher and Joe talks about his FFA journey. Links: Bourbon County High School FFA NAAE Ideas Unlimited Award Ag Innovation Grants Julie Fritsch Creative
This week on Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Rockcastle County High School FFA Advisors Matthew Whitaker and Lewis Mink discuss the success of their chapter and what inspired their careers in agriculture education. Links: Rockcastle County High School FFA KAAE Outstanding AgEd Program of the Year UK AgEd Loctus Trace AgriScience Center
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, LuAnn Coffey shares her extensive leadership experience from her family's multi-generational agribusiness, Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment, and discusses her passion for agriculture and storytelling. Links: Kentucky FFA Foundation Board of Trustees Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Kenny Brammell — East Carter FFA advisor — 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
In this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, David Beck — President and CEO of Kentucky Venues — shares how his involvement with FFA and his educational journey, including student teaching and working on a farm, shaped his appreciation for agriculture and leadership. Links: Kentucky Venues Lyon County FFA Kentucky Farm Bureau Kentucky State Fair Lyon County FFA Forever Blue Endowment Fund
This week on Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Trenton Page (Kentucky FFA State President) and Jacob Rudy (Kentucky FFA State Treasurer) share their experiences as state officers thus far and what inspired them to apply for their positions. Kentucky FFA State Officers Adair County FFA Apollo FFA
On this week's episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Daniel Bustle shares the importance of finding your passion and networking. Loctus Trace AgriScience Center Bi-Water Farm Rockcastle County FFA UK Agriculture Education SAE Grants KAAE Owl Tales Podcast
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Chapel Tinius explains the role she'll have in Kentucky agriculture while she serves as Miss Kentucky 2024. Links: 2024 Miss Kentucky Bowling Green High School Belmont University VA in Lexington, KY Kentucky Proud Carry the Load Honor Flight Kentucky Department of Agriculture Sunshine Class
This week on Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Coty Back talks about his past FFA experience and his career in learning and development. Links: Menifee County FFA Kentucky FFA State Officers National FFA Officers
On this week's episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, JR Shinkle — Wright Implement Salesman and Kentucky FFA Board Member — talks about the value of partnerships, specifically through the Kentucky FFA Works program. Links: Gallatin County FFA Chapter FFA Board of Trustees Wright Implement Kentucky FFA Works Blue and Gold Gala
This week on Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Taylor Cook — owner of Taylor Belle's — talks about the important role FFA played in her following her dreams and becoming a successful business owner. Links: Anderson County FFA Taylor Belle's Taylor Belle's and Burgers SAE Grants
On this week's episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Kentucky FFA State Advisor Kristan Wright discusses the importance of urban agriculture. Links: Seneca High School FFA UK Agricultural Education SAE Grants
This week on Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Pulaski County FFA Advisor Janella Miller shares the importance of investing in agriculture and the impact it has on students. Links: Pulaski County FFA Kentucky Association of Agriculture Educators (KAAE) SAE Grants
On this week's episode, Brady Lawson — incoming student body president at Morehead State University — tells us how his experiences through FFA prepared him as a leader. Links: Kentucky FFA State Officers Morgan County FFA Political Science at MSU
On this week's episode, Central Kentucky Ag Credit President and CEO Jonathan Noe discusses the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and how FFA provides the perfect space for that. Links: Central Kentucky Ag Credit Annie's Project SAE Grants
After teaching agriculture for several years, Josh Mitcham became the Director of the Kentucky FFA Leadership Training Center in 2019. On this week's episode, Josh talks about exciting new plans for the Kentucky FFA Leadership Training Center and his vision for the future. Links: Kentucky FFA Leadership Training Center Breckinridge County FFA Nelson County FFA Meade County FFA Tempur Sealy donates 450 new mattresses
On this week's episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Joenelle Wetzler — Director of Learning and Development at Simmons Foods — explains how what she learned through FFA and agricultural education transfers to her career today. Links: Daviess County FFA Kentucky FFA Officers National FFA Officers Simmons Food Joenelle and Jason Give FFA Day video The Comfort Crisis
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