Podcasts about ffa

National FFA Southern Region Vice President T. Wayne Williams, of Cannon County, was recognized on the floors of both the state House and Senate. During the honor, Williams thanked lawmakers for their continued support of FFA and highlighted the vital role the youth agricultural organization plays in developing the next generation of leaders in agriculture.

A northwest Iowa school district is trying to address racist bullying. The Iowa House has passed a bill that bans mothers without legal status from a federal food assistance program. And why are there more FFA chapters being created in urban schools?

Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified. Today I am interviewing Lacey, a school counselor and IMPACT member. In this episode, we are talking all about class lessons and the engaging formula she uses to keep students involved and excited about learning. Lacey Dixon is an enthusiastic educator that leads with positive intention while fostering a nurturing, growth-oriented inclusive environment for her school and community. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Innovation, a Masters in School Counseling, and a Masters in Instruction that has served her well as a seventeen-year education veteran and first-generation college student.   This school year marked a turning point as she began her new journey as a first-year school counselor.  Previously, she served as a secondary agriscience educator and FFA advisor, an ag relationship manager in the private sector and instructional leader at an intermediate school.  Blending her love of teaching, and intuitive ability to build strong relationships with students, Dr. Dixon strives to create a learning environment where all students feel loved and welcomed from the moment they walk through their school doors.  Cultivating social emotional intelligence and mindfulness among staff and students, continues to shape her everyday interactions and school initiatives for the promise of a better tomorrow.  What do you love about school counseling? When asked what she loves most about school counseling, Lacey shares that she enjoys building relationships and having the opportunity to do something different every day. She works with students in grades four through six and teaches lessons within professional learning communities. She values incorporating social emotional learning into her lessons and is passionate about helping students feel loved and welcomed each day. How do you manage class lessons at your school? Lacey has developed a clear and engaging structure for her class lessons. She begins by gathering student input about what they enjoy, ensuring their voices are heard. Each lesson starts with a Smartboard open and includes morning movement such as dances or short videos to energize students. From there, she leads affirmations, inviting students to repeat statements like, "I belong in this classroom just as I am." Next, she introduces an activator, which may be a short video or a definition connected to the lesson objective.  The class then moves into the main activity, often including a take home component to help students create meaning beyond the classroom.  She closes with a reflection component to reinforce learning. Her lesson framework includes a physical activity, affirmation, activation, activity, and reflection. What does a typical day look like for you? In a typical day, Lacey balances lunch and bus duties, small groups, individual student sessions, and teaching class lessons three days per week. Each day brings variety and opportunities to connect with students in different ways. What advice do you have for new counselors? For new counselors, Lacey offers thoughtful advice. She encourages counselors to extend grace to themselves and their students. She recommends focusing on immediate priorities rather than trying to do everything at once. She also emphasizes the importance of having trusted colleagues or friends to lean on, as the role can be demanding and emotionally heavy.  Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT Connect with Rachel: TpT Store Blog Instagram Facebook Page Facebook Group Pinterest Youtube   More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more!  

Cities and suburbs may not be connected to the region's farms, but they are seeing a growth in FFA chapters.

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann are joined by Claire West, Customer Education Manager at Farm Credit Mid-America. A former high school agriculture teacher and FFA advisor at Nelson County, Claire shares her journey from finding her place in agriculture as a student in Marshall County to pioneering an innovative, agriculture experience for her students. Join the conversation as she discusses the importance of agricultural education and her transition to educating the next generation of leaders in a new capacity.Links:Farm Credit Mid AmericaNelson County FFAMarshall County FFABalance Sheet BasicsGrowing Forward ProgramKindle HolderKindle Clicker

Logan McKnight is the founder of GoodKnight Consulting and a strategic advisor to MedTech executives navigating growth, leadership challenges, and operational complexity. Logan shares her nearly 20-year journey from pre-med to neuromonitoring technologist to CEO, and explains why she now focuses on helping leaders build teams that scale without sacrificing culture or burning out. She discusses lessons learned managing remote surgical service teams, why “simple scales,” and how mission, vision, and values enable better decisions and hiring beyond gut instinct.  Guest links: https://www.goodknightconsulting.net/ Charity supported: ASPCA Interested in being a guest on the show or have feedback to share? Email us at theleadingdifference@velentium.com.  PRODUCTION CREDITS Host & Editor: Lindsey Dinneen Producer: Velentium Medical   EPISODE TRANSCRIPT Episode 075 - Logan McKnight [00:00:00] Lindsey Dinneen: Hi, I'm Lindsey and I'm talking with MedTech industry leaders on how they change lives for a better world. [00:00:09] Diane Bouis: The inventions and technologies are fascinating and so are the people who work with them. [00:00:15] Frank Jaskulke: There was a period of time where I realized, fundamentally, my job was to go hang out with really smart people that are saving lives and then do work that would help them save more lives. [00:00:28] Diane Bouis: I got into the business to save lives and it is incredibly motivating to work with people who are in that same business, saving or improving lives. [00:00:38] Duane Mancini: What better industry than where I get to wake up every day and just save people's lives. [00:00:42] Lindsey Dinneen: These are extraordinary people doing extraordinary work, and this is The Leading Difference. Hello, and welcome back to another episode of The Leading Difference podcast. I'm your host, Lindsey, and today I am delighted to welcome Logan McKnight. Logan is the founder of GoodKnight Consulting and a strategic advisor to MedTech executives navigating growth, leadership challenges and operational complexity. With nearly 20 years in neuromonitoring and surgical services, including experience as a CEO, VP of Operations and business development leader, Logan brings an experienced perspective to executive leadership. She works with directors, VPs, and C-suite leaders to build teams that can scale without sacrificing culture or burning out. Well, welcome to the show, Logan. I'm so glad to speak with you today, and thank you so much for being here. [00:01:34] Logan McKnight: Yeah, it's great to be here. I appreciate you inviting me. [00:01:36] Lindsey Dinneen: Of course. I'd love if you wouldn't mind starting off by sharing just a little bit about yourself, your background, and what led you to MedTech. [00:01:45] Logan McKnight: Of course. Yeah. So my name is Logan McKnight and I have been in medtech for almost the last 20 years. And I think my journey, I, a lot of people have a very similar like origin story of haphazardly finding their way into medtech. I was pre-med in college. I wanted to go into veterinary school and I think I panicked honestly last minute, not really wanting to go. I interned under vet who basically dissuaded me from doing all the work of vet school and said go to med school. And feeling a little lost, I found my way to medtech, particularly neural monitoring, which was a field, pretty niche, but basically I got trained by a company to go in and run equipment and monitor patient's nervous systems during surgery. And to me, just having my bachelor's degree and having that level of impact and being able to jump right into patient care without having to go to more, you know, years and years of schooling was right up my alley and it's been such a wild ride. You know, I was a technologist and then I became a manager and then VP of development of business development, and head of contracting. And then I went over to a small company where I was the vice president of the whole company, and then eventually CEO, and now I'm consulting for medtech companies. So it's been a really fun journey that I didn't plan at all. [00:03:06] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. Okay. Well, excellent. And that brings up so many questions, but to start, so you were thinking originally you might wanna be a vet. Do you have you know, like, did you grow up with animals? Did you just have an amazing love for them? Where did that come from? [00:03:23] Logan McKnight: You know, honestly, I think I would've had way more animals, but my parents were a lot more reasonable than I was. So we just had the regular pets, but I grew up like horseback riding and in the Midwest, in Ohio. So I was around a lot of farm animals and things like that and I was part of like FFA and horticulture. So future Farmers of America. And I actually was really interested in large animals because I didn't wanna deal with people, I didn't wanna deal with people or their pets. So, and you know, and so that was what panicked me about med school was like the whole plan was veterinary school was to avoid the people part. And then I found through medtech you know, neuromonitoring and surgery where my patients are asleep. And so I still got to do all the things that I love, like providing impact, but then, you know, not having to worry about, I guess all for me I just had my head like all the challenges and complications that deal dealing with patients that I thought would make my job and life really difficult. So it's been really fun to kind of focus on just like the care and how to move things forward and explore this big, wide open space of how to impact people's lives in surgery. [00:04:31] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. And you know what's interesting about that too is, though, I think it sounds like throughout your, though, as you've, you know, gone from technologist and then you've had all of these amazing career changes and growth basically. It sounds like, you know, you have developed though your own kind of leadership style, so even though maybe originally you weren't sure about dealing with people, so to speak, you've actually excelled at it. So I'm curious how that has evolved for you in creating and managing teams. [00:05:03] Logan McKnight: Yeah. You know, it's interesting. I think like initially I was trying to control all these variables before I got into leadership in people, and then realized like you can't do that once you get to actually working with people. And once you almost like acknowledge and recognize, you can't control that but there's some beauty in that of you just allow for what you allow and then you know, you have to give people the ability to function like at their level. And you create the parameters. But other than that, like some magic happens when you don't try to control every single thing. And I see so many, especially new managers, you know, being like, "I need to control everything." And they're wondering why they're exhausted or their team's not respecting them. And it's like, gotta let go, gotta let go of the wheel a little bit. So, you know, I think those are some lessons and sometimes they just come with time and experience. [00:05:55] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah, absolutely. Yeah. So, when you started, well, let's go back to the beg, maybe it's kind of at the beginning of your career. What are some things that you learned as a technologist and as you were growing within the hospital systems themselves, that contributed to basically where you would become now to become an entrepreneur and all of that. [00:06:21] Logan McKnight: Yeah, I mean, I will be very honest, and this is not meant to be a dig at anybody who I'd worked with or any boss. But I just, I went to work for a private company and we went and we were almost like hired mercenaries. So we would go to like, you know, every day I was in a different hospital. I didn't know my schedule till the night before. I rarely saw my manager and, you know, rarely saw other members of my team and it really felt like I was very isolated and alone. And it added to my burnout and also feeling like I didn't have anyone watch, like looking out for me and my back as a younger employee. And I realized there was so much room for improvement there in how you manage a team remotely. And so I think I, I just like mentally I was a psychology major before I switched to pre-med, and so I think like the, like human brain, because I was, you know, neuroscience, but like psychology, I think is so fascinating to me and the way people tick and what makes them tick. And I, I'm a big believer if you can figure out the way people tick, you can unlock so many things in the world and like you can, you know, you can be the most brilliant person, but if you can't communicate effectively, if you can't manage a team, you're really not gonna take things to the next level because you're not gonna activate those people around you to perform and get something done. So I feel like it was a case study for me to kind of watch like these managers and struggle and I'm like, "Ah, that's what I'm not going to do." [00:07:47] Lindsey Dinneen: Yes. Yeah. Sometimes learning from examples that maybe you wish you didn't have to learn from though can be the best teachers and actually serve your, you know, your own leadership style and your people that you end up getting to influence. It actually does help in the long term, but so. [00:08:06] Logan McKnight: Totally. [00:08:07] Lindsey Dinneen: So when you started GoodKnight Consulting, what was the impetus for that? I mean, you'd had this you've had this amazing career so far. You're ready kind of just for the next step or what sparked that? [00:08:19] Logan McKnight: You know, it's interesting, I stepped down from my CEO position 'cause I was feeling, I was running a neuromonitoring service company in the Pacific Northwest. We also had a professional services arm with neurologists. And then I had a medical billing company that I was running and we did mostly out of network billing. And then we also started a company in India right before COVID. So by 2023, I was fried, I was very burnt out in the way that I felt like I was busy all the time, but not really having the same impact I used to have. I think a lot of that was like I, I got more involved on the litigious side of running a company and then also the medical billing side really takes it out of you. So the thing I enjoyed was the coaching and the mentoring, and once I took a little bit of a step back and thought about what would I do every day for free? You know, like, what would I just love to do? And the reality was coaching other leaders, especially one like scratched my itch for helping people and provide and like, impact, which I realize is my biggest driver is like, how do I impact the most people and walk away with, you know, my life feeling like I've touched people in a positive way, and I think that's, you know, my, my driving force. So that's kind of why I started. And I started honestly just trying to go to leaders individually and offer some webinars and some one-on-one coaching. And then I really realized working with companies actually is the best way to go about this because you get ownership and leadership that's totally aligned and they want that support for their leaders. And then, it's so much easier to see the impact spread throughout an organization, so that's been really cool, is to be this outside force driving an owner or an executive's vision of what they want their company or the team to be. [00:10:07] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah, and I noticed when I was reading a little bit more about the company, one of the things that I thought was really interesting is you talk about there, this is not just let's say leadership or mindset coaching or something like that, although that is very important as well. It is also about the business strategy. And you talk a lot about, you know, you've been in the position to understand how much, of course, revenue matters. You ha you have to, you know, make sure that's a strong, you know, foundation for the business. So, so how do you balance the two when you work with clients? [00:10:45] Logan McKnight: Yeah, no, that's a great question. I think every client is unique. I have found that just stripping away-- actually with something I, a blog post I was working on today and something I posted on LinkedIn, and it's something I find myself saying to founders and owner operators all the time-- simple scales. And I think, you know, what ends up happening is a lot of times you get this great idea for a product, a service, a company, and you just go. And you don't sometimes sit down and create like the true mission or the vision and like the values of the company. And it's really hard for owner operators and people who are in startup land and you know, small businesses to pause and do that, especially if they've been going for a few years 'cause you know, it's like, "Well, I've been operating without this stuff. It's totally fine." The reality is it's so much easier to grow and scale and also to gut check yourself when you're making decisions and being like "This is the right call because this aligns with our mission and our vision for the company or our growth initiatives for this year. And then it aligns with my values. I feel good about this decision and I can communicate it to people I hire. So I trust those people." And like that's what scales is, the trust and people having like the unified mission and vision and values and like, I know it sounds a little touchy feely, but the reality is like that's actually what I feel like I end up centering owners and operators on. It's less about the minutia and the details and more about like, does this make sense with where you wanna go and the way you, and the way you wanna get there. [00:12:21] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. Yeah, exactly. Okay. Yeah, I really like that. And with the emphasis on the unified team in terms of, you know, we don't all have to view life exactly the same, but we need to be aligned, at least with our mission and values and things like that. What do you find are some of the best practices when it comes to building out a team? And on the flip side, what are some things that maybe are common or that feel like they would be good practices, but in reality might not be. Like, what are some lessons learned, I suppose, on both sides? [00:12:56] Logan McKnight: Yeah. I mean, I think, I'll be honest, I think a lot of owners and maybe leaders who've been in their position for a while, like, like there-- I was talking to somebody else about this, about your gut feeling and like, go with your gut and trust me. I was a big go with my gut leader especially as a CEO, but like that doesn't scale because you have to be able to verbalize like, what are the things you're looking for? Why did you pick this person? And so at the end of the day you know, I had a policy when I was probably right, became, when I became a CEO that I needed to like approve after a couple not so great hires, I needed to approve every hire. And like the reality is that's not realistic, that's not gonna scale as you grow. And so I just needed to create the, this is what we're looking for like, you know, we're hiring for attitude. We can train the aptitude, we can train the technical depending on what the job is. But, you know, here's what we're really looking for, is a good fit for the company and the culture. And then, because once I had people who I knew really got that and saw the vision, I knew they were gonna make the right choices. And so I didn't feel like I had to. Be the one making that decision, I could scale it and help, you know, allow my team to hire for the people in the places that they needed and saw. [00:14:09] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. Okay. Yeah, I really like that. So, one thing that I thought was interesting, especially so on your LinkedIn profiles, I was, you know, enjoying reading more about you and some of the things you've done. But you had mentioned that sometimes there's a trade off between hitting targets and then you're burning out your team for the opposite. You're protecting your team, but then you're not hitting your targets. Could you speak a little bit more about that and how you help companies sort of overcome that challenge. [00:14:40] Logan McKnight: No, and I mean, I think it's like, I equate like, I think when I first became a leader, you know, talking about how my viewed my other leaders maybe know what not to do, I definitely swung the pendulum too far the other direction when I first started. And I was way too, I don't know, I was way too, all the things I didn't get. And so two, like checking in with my team, "How are you doing?" Not wanting to delegate work to them and doing these things because you know, and so I realized there's you, I think that's like an initial thing a lot of leaders go through is that shift. It's when you get stuck in the one extreme or the other and you don't really find your good at equilibrium, that it's really hard to sustain. And I think it's really important to find your equilibrium of, like, "This drives us to hit quota. This drives us to get our metrics and to for success. And then it does it in a sustainable way that our team's gonna stay." Because to me, like, sustainable. I kind of was thinking about my values even this morning and I'm like, I think fun is really one of my values like, I want to really enjoy like not just my personal life, but my professional life, and I think your job, your company, all of those things is a lot more fun when it's sustainable, right, when you're like exhausted. So finding a way for it to be sustainable for your team, for, you know, and everyone likes to win. Like it's fun to hit quota. It's fun to like crush your metrics and celebrate. So it, how do you know, make that sustainable and fun? And I think that's like a long-term success or recipe for success with a company. [00:16:15] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. Yeah. Well, and you know, it's so interesting 'cause actually this has come up a couple of times recently on the podcast is the sort of core value of fun and how much that does actually transform people's experience with the company. And you know, because inevitably you're gonna have those days that are just really tough and hard. And so being able to though have a culture of fun and joy is, it does make a difference. Yeah. [00:16:42] Logan McKnight: No, for sure. I remember when I first started working in surgery and someone asked me, they're like, "Oh, is it like Grey's Anatomy?" And, you know, and I'm like, "It's not nearly as like sexy. Like there's no, you know, doctors in closets and whatever." The, I, it's actually more like the show Scrubs and the reality is, and people are like, "Oh, that seems like goofy and comedy." I'm like, "I know." But the, I think the reality is we view in like healthcare and medtech of like this, you know, taking care of patients, a serious job. We're talking to surgeons. But for anybody who's really good at their job, like, you know, you see, especially in surgery in these high stakes environments, like it's actually the best rooms to be in are a lot of fun because you rely on your team, you know everyone's gonna do well, or you know their job well. If shit hits the fan, the tone changes and you can trust that. But I think because you trust your team. It's fun, you know, in more moments than not because there's just so much trust that when things get serious, people will speak up and it's safe. I think you like when you're psychologically safe, it's enjoyable, it's fun, and you also feel like you can speak up when you say something wrong. And I feel like those are the healthiest like work dynamics, both in healthcare then, especially in medtech when you're putting a product out there, like you want somebody to say something if they see a problem with your product before it goes to market, right? [00:18:05] Lindsey Dinneen: Well, and I love that. I love that perspective too of, you're absolutely right, healthcare, medical devices, it is it is serious by nature and it should be like, we should take our jobs seriously. But at the same times, if we could not maybe take ourselves as seriously and, you know, and infuse the fun and it does help also I think dissipate some of that-- well, some of the really hard, you know, again, those days that are tough it helps to be able to say, you know, take a step back and go, you know what, "It's yes, and." [00:18:37] Logan McKnight: Right. A hundred percent. Yeah. It adds a little like, like brevity to those se really serious moments to be able to feel. You know, and I think that at the end of the day, like you being in whatever place whatever your place is in healthcare, in medtech, like whatever role you're playing, like you are helping advance the field, you're helping patient care. And I think always keeping that in mind, even on like the tough days, like you're advancing something in a good way keeps you centered on like your why and drives you forward in a really good way versus like, you know, and I'll be honest, like I, it got hard for me in my CEO role, like, I think I lost my why a little bit and my driver, because it's very hard to see, "Okay, well how am I impacting patient care positively. How am I impacting the world positively?" when you're chasing down insurance reimbursements and whatnot. And, you know, dealing with hospital shutdowns during COVID. So I think at the end of the day, I realize like I need to find a way for this to be enjoyable and fun because I also realize like I'm my best self and I'm more creative and I'm more in like a problem solving zone when I'm in that, that good mindset. And so I, I look at it as a huge positive to, to figure out what, what drives you and make you happy. [00:19:51] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. What drives you makes you happy. And I agree with you, if you can also take a step back sometimes and have that broader perspective and mix it with just a little bit of humor, even if just all you're doing is taking a quick break and watching, I don't know, a funny cat video or something. Yeah. [00:20:10] Logan McKnight: Sure. [00:20:11] Lindsey Dinneen: Reset moments make a difference. So difference, you're a board member of several organizations and I wondered if you could speak a little bit to those organizations and what led you to get involved with them. [00:20:24] Logan McKnight: Yeah. So the two I'm on the board of is one Nepal's Spine Foundation which I went to Nepal with a few surgeons I worked with. And then when I was in figuring out my why when I stepped away the surgeons who are started the foundation invited me to join the board. And actually I will be going to Nepal with them in April and we'll be doing another mission and then hiking to Everspace camp together. I'm looking forward to that, and it's been amazing 'cause I think that's also, I've gotten to go on a lot of mission trips in my career. I've gotten to go to Ghana and Barbados, Dominican Republic, Nepal, India. And so, like I also realized like impact being my driver, like I have so much impact to teach people about neuromonitoring, which isn't a well-known, you know, aspect of surgery always. And so the fact that I could leave a hospital, a community better for going there really was a driver. So the fact that I continued to do that work is really important. And then the second is STRIPES, which is how I met you, women in medtech. And you know, the nice thing is I was looking, I was a, I went back before I fully launched GoodKnight Consulting and became like a device rep just to kind of figure out, you know, do I wanna go back into sales? What do I really wanna do? And I was a little lost and I found my way, you know, I wanted community. And when I found this group, it was just transformative for me. Like I, my mentor was Lisa Jacobs, who is phenomenal and has been inspiring for a very long time. And she actually really pushed me to do my dream and start and really put all into my coaching and consulting. So I'm really grateful for that. And then she invited me to be on the board. So like to continue to give back to an organization that I feel like personally gave me, like it, it's why I am where I am today. It gave me that push I needed in that support. And there's tons of women in the organization like Claire Davis, Kat Hurd, like Courtney Turich. I just, they're all out there, they're all public on LinkedIn. And that was something that honestly, initially scared me. And so just, I was inspired by them, supported, and I think that's a really, you know, great thing when you are becoming an entrepreneur is finding your community and that support. [00:22:42] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. Yeah. Well, okay. So I just, I love the fact that you're doing both of those things. The mission work is really cool. It's amazing to hear how you've gotten to use-- well, because you're so driven by impact how you've gotten to do that and then make a big difference in, in the lives of people that, yeah, may otherwise never have had that opportunity or, you know, at least not for a while or whatever. So. [00:23:09] Logan McKnight: Right. [00:23:10] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah, that, that's really incredible. So, you know, through that or throughout your career, are there any moments that really stand out to you as kind of affirming, "Wow, I am in the right industry at the right time." [00:23:23] Logan McKnight: You know, I think medtech, like always, even if it's not me and something I'm doing, like seeing people who I know in the industry and accomplishments they've made, and organizations that I've either been a part of or supported in some way in my career, like just seeing like the new tech coming out and the advancements they're making, just reaffirms like I'm part of a bigger picture in an ecosystem that's really great. And even, you know, like I, I came from the spine space when I was doing medical device and it spine is, you know, tough. Like ortho's tough, spines tough. That's a lot of competition. But you know, I think. Competition drives quality, and so it's really cool even if you see your competitor doing something, you know, you're like, "Oh man, I wish we would've," but it's getting done. It's, you know, it's pushing the envelope, it's making it better. And I think that's huge. And, you know, really exciting too when I found you and Project Medtech to see how you guys are helping support like startups and investors and people who are looking to get into this space. Because I think that's the other thing is getting fresh perspective and new innovative companies helps everybody like drive, drives the mission forward, drives the impact forward on patient care. [00:24:38] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. Yeah. I love that. Yeah. And okay, so another very random thing that I found on your LinkedIn, but I just really liked it 'cause I resonate with this aspect. So you started to paint, you learned how to paint. Tell us about that and does that play a role in your creativity overall, do you think? [00:25:01] Logan McKnight: You know, I think so. So I hosted like a happy hour for girlfriends and we did this thing where we painted like a thrift shop thrift store paintings and like Halloween things in them. And so, and I live in the Pacific Northwest, which is beautiful. We have a hundred year old cabin on three acres, and it's, it was October. It was just like, stunning. And I was looking out in our, my backyard and I was like, "I wanna paint this." And I just sat down. I mean, I'm not artistic. I've never and it looked like a 8-year-old painted it and my partner Joe was like, "Maybe watch a video." It's great. I love it. But, you know, and so I found, you know, like Bob, apparently all, every episode of Bob Ross was on Netflix at least last year. And so I just started watching some videos and some videos on YouTube, and I started getting better and better pretty quickly. Like I, you know, I started, you know, little tutorials here and there. And then I realized, like I was also reading books to help me kind of get in this entrepreneurial mindset like growth mindset or "Mindset" by Carol Dweck, which talks about growth mindset. And I realized like, you can teach yourself to do anything. Like I had told myself for the longest time, I mean, I started my I'm 40 and so I told myself for 40 years, like, "I'm not artistic." That was my box I painted around myself. And then all of a sudden I was like, "Well, let's give it a shot." And so, you know, there's, I realize like you set these boundaries in your parameters in your head and you blow them up a little bit. Like, you know what? Like, let's just see, let's try you know, and I see this with our teenagers too, it's sometimes like when they struggle in school, they'll be like, "I'm not smart, or I'm not this." And I'm like, "You just have to try." Like anything worth doing takes effort. And if everybody quit because they weren't good. The first time or even like the 10th time, like imagine how little progress we would make as a society. So I think if something you wanna do something recognizing, like you can learn to do it. And I think that also helped ignite, like me knowing I could be, do my consulting company and really launch it. And so I just started reaching out to people who had done it and I hired coaches and I started to learn more about what would make it work and what I would need to do. And you know what a novel idea, right? You find the person who's doing what you wanna do and you learn from them. You know, and it's just like that entire journey over the last year was really helpful to, I think, get me to the head place like I needed to be, to like leave the safety of a W2 job and launch a company. Just to like lie, you know, to myself every, and be like, "You can do it." Because, you know, if you start every day with the, "I don't know if this is gonna work," like I, there's no way I would've done this. I really had to tell myself I could do it, it was gonna work, and I realized now that I've gotten past that, it's very harder like to put a boundary around me now. Like now it's a challenge, right? Like if you tell me I can't do something, I'm like, "Oh, let's see." I bet you, you know, even if I'll fail, like the first few times, I want to try to see if I can do it because I now have this delusion that I can teach myself to do just about anything, so. [00:28:18] Lindsey Dinneen: That's awesome. [00:28:20] Logan McKnight: Or not. [00:28:20] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah, no, that is incredible. And you're absolutely right. I think we can all relate to, at least in some element of our lives, painting boxes around ourselves and going, "I'm not this," or "I'm not that," or "I'll never get to be able to do this. I'll never be proficient." And those things aren't true. It's just what we tell ourselves. So I love the fact that painting opened up those doors for you. [00:28:43] Logan McKnight: Yeah. No it's so true. And I think it's like a. You know, a metaphor for life. And I think I hear that a lot of times from people will be like, "I wish I could do what you," and I'm like, " You can literally do anything." That's how crazy. And, you know, we're in peak New Year's resolution time, right? And I think a lot of people are like, "Oh, I wanna do this and do that." And that's like, you can, you just like, if you wanna be a person that exercises more. Just go start exercising. That's how wild the world, like our brains can make us do whatever we want. So anyway, I'm also a big psychology buff 'cause I, I'm a big believer in like the power of the human brain and what it can do over your decision making and your life and the impact it can have, you know, everything really. [00:29:27] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. No, absolutely. Yeah, I couldn't agree more. I love that perspective and yeah, growth mindset is a wonderful gift because, you know, you can explore, you can try, and as long as you're sticking with it and doing those things, then you're not failing. You're just, you're just exploring and then you can just keep exploring and find things that are right for you. And you know, not everything will stick, and that's okay too, so. [00:29:55] Logan McKnight: Yeah, a hundred percent. Yeah. I always tell people "I'm still figuring what I, or figuring out what I wanna do when I grow up." You know, and I think that's an ongoing thing, and I hope when I'm 80, I still am figuring out like what's next. [00:30:06] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. [00:30:07] Logan McKnight: It's exciting. So. [00:30:08] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. All right, well pivoting the conversation a little bit just for fun. Imagine that you were to be offered a million dollars to teach a masterclass on anything you want. It could be within your industry, but it doesn't have to be. What would you choose to teach? [00:30:24] Logan McKnight: You know, I think this, it ends up being the thing I talk about most. And it's the thing I think I wanted to do initially, but it was really a struggle to just target and talk to managers, especially like frontline managers. But I think that transition from being an independent contributor to becoming a first time leader-- like if I could teach a masterclass in that, I think that would be really fun. I see so many very empathetic and like capable independent contributors, whether they be like rockstar sales rep or even a great like technologist or engineer. And then they were like, "Okay, well I need to move up the ladder. I'm gonna be a people manager," and then their next step is people management. And they're like, "This sucks. Like I, nobody told me about like all the things I have to deal with and the people." And you're still in the mindset of like box checking, of like, in order to be successful, "I have to do all these things. I have to do X, Y, and Z." And I think that the second I stopped checking all the boxes and trying to do all the things was when I went from being like a manager to an actual leader of people and activating them. And if I could just get a few people who I believe, like I've even seen so many really great people leave the industry because they feel like they want to advance, but they don't see because they weren't a good manager, like, "Well, how would I ever be a good director or a good VP," or so on and so forth. The reality is like probably the hardest transition is going from independent contributor to a manager, and yet it's like the least supported space. So that's I think that's something I feel deeply passionate about and would love to like able to offer as a resource more for people. [00:32:10] Lindsey Dinneen: And that would be an incredible masterclass. Okay, and then how do you wish to be remembered after you leave this world? [00:32:18] Logan McKnight: I love that one. I mean, I think at the end of the day, that's the impact thing. You know, and I don't even think it has to be this, like, big, you know, like, "Oh, I, you know, solved healthcare in Ghana." Like, you know, it's not that. It's almost like I, I hope that like my company and my interaction with people leaves everyone feeling a little lighter, a little happier, like a little more capable to do like something, and they feel like talking with me, working with me has unlocked like the next level of something that they've been struggling with and makes them feel like, "Okay, I can do this now." 'Cause I almost feel like that's what, what coaching and consulting comes down to is I'm not doing the thing for anybody. I am only helping to remove the roadblock around them, that they stop limiting themselves and they really see what's possible just by making a few changes in the way they think, in the way they operate their business or run their team. And, you know, amazing things happen. So my hope is that I just continue to get to do that and have people that really feel positive impact from that. [00:33:26] Lindsey Dinneen: Yeah. Well that is a beautiful legacy, so, yeah. All right. And then final question. What is one thing that makes you smile every time you see or think about it? [00:33:38] Logan McKnight: Oh, gosh. Well, we just talked about this before our call, but my dog, I have, I'm an animal lover, and so I have the fortune that every day, most every day I'm in my home office and I get to go on a hike or walk with my dogs, either around our property or out somewhere in beautiful Washington. And I think just like seeing the mountains and being out with my dog, like that just makes me smile. And I think it's also what inspired me to paint and all the things. So I, I think just all the beauty like in the world just makes me smile and makes my heart very happy. [00:34:12] Lindsey Dinneen: I love that. Oh my goodness. That's beautiful. All right, well this has been an amazing conversation, Logan. I so appreciate you and your time today. And we're so honored to be making a donation on your behalf as a thank you for your time today to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which is dedicated to preventing animal cruelty in the United States. So thank you for choosing that organization to support and we just wish you continued success as you work to change lives for a better world. [00:34:43] Logan McKnight: Yeah, thanks for having me. We'll talk soon. [00:34:45] Lindsey Dinneen: Sounds good. Thank you and take care. [00:34:49] Dan Purvis: The Leading Difference is brought to you by Velentium Medical. Velentium Medical is a full service CDMO, serving medtech clients worldwide to securely design, manufacture, and test class two and class three medical devices. Velentium Medical's four units include research and development-- pairing electronic and mechanical design, embedded firmware, mobile app development, and cloud systems with the human factor studies and systems engineering necessary to streamline medical device regulatory approval; contract manufacturing-- building medical products at the prototype, clinical, and commercial levels in the US, as well as in low cost regions in 1345 certified and FDA registered Class VII clean rooms; cybersecurity-- generating the 12 cybersecurity design artifacts required for FDA submission; and automated test systems, assuring that every device produced is exactly the same as the device that was approved. Visit VelentiumMedical.com to explore how we can work together to change lives for a better world.

United FFA Advisor Scott Riden was recently recognized as one of the five Golden Owl Award Finalist. As Riden nears retirement, he is joined with current FFA President Meredith Yung as he reflects on his career as an FFA advisor and the meaning of the distinction.

This week's segment is a visit with 2 PEM FFA members who attended the Technology Empowered Conference (T,E.C.).  The conference encouraged FFA members to learn about careers in the Power Structure and Technology career pathways.

Lillian Linscheid was selected as a Beck's Player with Heart in recognition of her dedication to her school, athletics, and community. She competes in golf and trap shooting while also participating in band, National Honor Society, forensics, FFA, and Leo Club. Lillian values the opportunity to compete alongside her friends, challenge herself, and take part in experiences that help her grow both personally and academically. Her commitment extends far beyond the classroom. Lillian is an active member of 4-H, serves as a blood drive coordinator, and participates in Iowa County Youth in Emergency Services. She is also deeply involved in her church youth group. As a fifth-generation farmer, Lillian was raised with a deep passion for agriculture. She views agriculture as more than an industry, but as a close-knit community working together toward the shared goal of feeding the world. Lillian plans to attend South Dakota State University to pursue a bachelor's degree in agronomy and animal science, along with a minor in precision agriculture. After graduation, she intends to return home to work alongside her dad and uncle on the family farm.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As a Beck's Player with Heart, Kathryn Kilgard demonstrates dedication and passion both on and off the field. She competes in cross country and track while also participating in National Honor Society, speech, FFA, and serving as a wrestling manager. Kathryn says her involvement in sports and activities has helped her build meaningful connections and appreciate the unique strengths and differences of those around her. She is equally committed to serving her community. Kathryn volunteers her time watering flowers in local parks, picking up trash along highways, packing food for Meals from the Heartland, and helping organize food and supply drives. Outside of school, Kathryn works as a farm laborer, where she trains horses and helps care for goats, llamas, sheep, and even a camel. Through agriculture, she sees a growing industry filled with opportunity and people striving to be part of something larger than themselves. Kathryn plans to attend Iowa State University, where she will major in agricultural business.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Reagan Dillon was chosen as a Beck's Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the field. In school, Reagan participates in FFA, Latin Honor Society, Yearbook Club, and softball. She loves being part of a team that works together to achieve their goals and one that allows her to give back to her community. Reagan is involved in the Farm Bureau Youth Advisory Board, the Shelby County Cattlemen's Association, and 4-H. Reagan also serves as FFA vice-president, where she is very active and participates in many activities, including crop scouting, livestock skill-a-thon, crop judging, livestock judging, ag sales demonstration, and animal science demonstration. To Reagan, agriculture means everything. She believes it is the backbone to the world and without it she would not be who she is today. Reagan plans to continue to play softball and further her education at a 4-year college. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As a Beck's Player with Heart, Mandi Schock shows dedication and passion on and off the field. She competes in basketball and track and field while also being involved in FFA, FBLA, and her school's mentoring program. She values the opportunity to compete, grow, and create lasting memories alongside her friends and family. Outside of school, Mandi volunteers at her local food pantry and participates in 4-H, giving back to the community that has supported her. Coming from a long line of farmers, agriculture represents family and community in Mandi's life. She has been raised with strong agricultural values and knows her family's support extends from the fields to the stands. Mandi plans to attend the University of Sioux Falls to pursue a degree in nursing while continuing her track career at the collegiate level.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jared Buwalda has been chosen as a Beck's Player with Heart for his commitment on and off the field. He is actively involved in FFA, SkillsUSA, National Honor Society, basketball, football, and the RCF Ice Fishing Team. A dedicated leader, he serves as vice president of both FFA and SkillsUSA. He has also been selected as team captain for both the basketball and football teams during his junior and senior years. Competing alongside close friends and learning from trusted mentors has shaped him into the person he is today. Jared volunteers with Food for Families, FFA community events, Living Hope Church, and at Randolph School, while also assisting elderly neighbors with household tasks. Through his own detailing business, he has donated funds and service certificates to local organizations. Serving others has strengthened his sense of responsibility and deepened his connection to the community. Agriculture is at the core of Jared's life. From riding in tractors with his dad as a child to working nearly full-time at KC Farms throughout high school, he has grown into a trusted and dependable part of the operation. He assists with planting, harvesting, drainage, maintenance, and more, and previously worked at Seed Clean LLC, managing seed operations. Jared plans to attend UW–Platteville to pursue a degree in agribusiness while continuing to work at KC Farms and grow his detailing business. His long-term goal is to lead within the agriculture industry, expand operations, and continue giving back to the community.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We are celebrating National FFA week by sharing about famous past members to news of a new Florida invasive species, learn about Tigger auctioneering overseas plus what to know regarding international travel and tips to stay safe! Join radio hosts Rebecca Wanner aka ‘BEC' and Jeff ‘Tigger' Erhardt (Tigger & BEC) with the latest in Outdoors & Western Lifestyle News! Season 6, Episode 278 Famous FFA Alumni Who Shaped America The National FFA Organization has produced leaders in business, politics, science, and entertainment. FFA builds skills in leadership, public speaking, agriculture, and community service. Notable FFA Alumni Jeff “Tigger” Erhardt (Alumni and Honorary Chapter FArmer, FFA Livestock Judging Coach): National Radio Show Host, New Broadcaster, PRCA Announcer. 39th President Jimmy Carter Johnny Cash Charlie Daniels John Mellencamp Willie Nelson Don Henley of The Eagles George Strait Cody Johnson Tim McGraw Taylor Swift Bo Jackson (Sports Legend) Brantley Gilbert Trace Adkins Easton Corbin Chancey Williams Jim Davis - Creator of the Garfield comics! Lane Frost Tuff Hedeman Baxter Black Reference: https://ffa.app.box.com/s/6pe6an7rgm9c042tbkbobqc8tuu0o1hz South Florida Faces Growing Threat from Invasive Nile Monitors A new invasive predator is spreading in South Florida — and it's a big one. The Nile monitor, a six-foot-long lizard native to Africa, is gaining ground in parts of the state. Wildlife officials say the species poses a serious threat to native animals, and it can now be killed year-round without a permit. Known for tackling invasive reptiles, trapper Mike Kimmel — also called the Python Cowboy — describes the Nile monitor as “like a python mixed with an iguana.” They're powerful, intelligent predators, similar to a smaller Komodo dragon. On Florida's west coast, especially in Cape Coral, biologists have been battling the species for nearly 20 years. Hundreds have been trapped, but pockets remain. That's concerning because Cape Coral is also home to Florida's largest population of the threatened Burrowing owl, which nests in the ground — making it vulnerable to predators like the Nile monitor. These lizards are carnivores. They eat fish, frogs, birds, eggs, small mammals — even young crocodiles — and have been known to attack chickens and small pets. They can grow up to 6.5 feet long, weigh nearly 20 pounds, run up to 18 miles per hour, and swim underwater for nearly an hour. Their ability to travel along canals and waterways has helped them spread. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is actively removing Nile monitors and urges residents to report any sightings. Wildlife officials warn: this is one invasive species South Florida can't afford to ignore. Reference: https://www.outdoorlife.com/conservation/florida-newest-invasive-nile-monitors/ What To Do To Minimize Stress About International Travel and “Shelter In Place” Warnings Last weekend Americans were told to shelter in place following a Mexican drug lord's death on Feb. 22, 2026. As a result, parts of Mexico have seen civil unrest in the wake of his death, including vehicles being torched and gunmen, believed to have supported the deceased, blocking highways in more than a dozen Mexico states. This is a great reminder that anytime traveling beyond the U.S. borders to utilize the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service to U.S. citizens and nationals to enroll a trip abroad so that the Department of State can accurately and quickly contact in case of emergency. Benefits of STEP Updates about health, weather, safety and security for your destination. Plan ahead using information from the local U.S. embassy. Helps the embassy or consulate contact you if there is an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency. Current Status: According to the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico website. Actions to Take: Seek shelter and minimize unnecessary movements. Avoid areas around law enforcement activity. Check @CAPUFE on X for status of road closures. Monitor local media for updates. Follow the directions of local authorities and in case of emergency, call 911. Keep family and friends advised of your location and well-being via phone, text, and social media. How To Be Travel Prepared Traveling abroad: Register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. Pack snacks such as microwave popcorn and small snacks. Stock your hotel room with extra bottled water and individually packaged snacks. Advise family and friends of location, length of trip and emergency contact information. Travel with extra medications as well as over the counter aides such as cold and fever meds. Philippines During this episode we learn how radio host, Jeff "Tigger" Erhardt", traveled to the Philippines for auctioneering. Tigger is a licensed and bonded auctioneer, with over 20 years experience. The Philippines was a new venture for Tigger and he shares in-depth the difference between American Auctions vs International and then selling Heavy Equipment in a foreign currency. Quick Philippines Travel Summary The Philippines are located in Southeast Asia, in the western Pacific Ocean and consist of over 7,100 islands. Positioned east of Vietnam and north of Indonesia. Capital: Manila Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP). Cash is king outside major cities. Language: Filipino and English Best Time to Visit the Philippines There are two main seasons. Dry Season: November–May (best time, especially Dec–April) Rainy Season: June–October (typhoons possible) Philippines Travel Tips Recommend drinking only bottled or filtered water. Street food is popular but choose busy vendors. Consider routine vaccines (consult your doctor). Sun protection is essential - climate is very humid and hot. OUTDOORS FIELD REPORTS & COMMENTS We want to hear from you! If you have any questions, comments, or stories to share about bighorn sheep, outdoor adventures, or wildlife conservation, don't hesitate to reach out. Call or text us at 305-900-BEND (305-900-2363), or send an email to BendRadioShow@gmail.com. Stay connected by following us on social media at Facebook/Instagram @thebendshow or by subscribing to The Bend Show on YouTube. Visit our website at TheBendShow.com for more exciting content and updates! https://thebendshow.com/ https://www.facebook.com/thebendshow WESTERN LIFESTYLE & THE OUTDOORS Jeff ‘Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca ‘BEC' Wanner are passionate news broadcasters who represent the working ranch world, rodeo, and the Western way of life. They are also staunch advocates for the outdoors and wildlife conservation. As outdoorsmen themselves, Tigger and BEC provide valuable insight and education to hunters, adventurers, ranchers, and anyone interested in agriculture and conservation. With a shared love for the outdoors, Tigger & BEC are committed to bringing high-quality beef and wild game from the field to your table. They understand the importance of sharing meals with family, cooking the fruits of your labor, and making memories in the great outdoors. Through their work, they aim to educate and inspire those who appreciate God's Country and life on the land. United by a common mission, Tigger & BEC offer a glimpse into the life beyond the beaten path and down dirt roads. They're here to share knowledge, answer your questions, and join you in your own success story. Adventure awaits around the bend. With The Outdoors, the Western Heritage, Rural America, and Wildlife Conservation at the forefront, Tigger and BEC live this lifestyle every day. To learn more about Tigger & BEC's journey and their passion for the outdoors, visit TiggerandBEC.com. https://tiggerandbec.com/

During National FFA Week Feb. 21-28, 2026, members of the Gettysburg FFA Chapter were busy talking about the organization to grade school students, hosting activities and sharing their personal connections with agriculture and FFA. In this episode, hear from chapter officers Reporter Emma Baier (junior), Sentinel Bradly Vasquez (sophomore), President Bobbi Eide (senior) and Vice President Trace Genzler (senior).

Thanks for sharing your FFA story, Lauren!

In this episode of the Green Side Up Podcast, Jason and Jordan sit down with guest Erin Alvarez to recap the first annual Landscape Rodeo at Ancient City Farmstead. They walk through what it took to pull off a brand‑new event—from last‑minute insurance and equipment logistics to course design, sponsors, and volunteers—plus highlights like the truck and trailer / Isuzu box truck course, the articulated wheel loader water challenge, a VIP night with an epic low country boil, and a crawfish race. You'll hear how FFA students, owner‑operators, larger landscape companies, UF, and vendors all came together to compete for custom belt buckles and showcase real‑world skills in the green industry, and why one FFA student's comment on local TV proved the event is a real pipeline for the next generation. The episode closes with Jordan sharing the story behind his wife Sydney's new children's book, "Looking for Bunny Flies," a nature‑themed seek‑and‑find inspired by her late father's bedtime stories. Landscape Rodeo: Action News Connect with Jason and Jordan:

With Jim Dickson — Founding Partner and CEO, Elevation Point Overview Louis Diamond speaks with the founder and CEO of Elevation Point about building a next-generation independent platform focused on ownership, minority capital, data strategy, and scalable, durable advisory firms. Listen in… > Download a transcript of this episode… NOTE: The views and opinions expressed by the guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Diamond Consultants. Neither Diamond Consultants nor the guests on this podcast are compensated in any way for their participation. Watch… https://youtu.be/D0-y8Q-DYvg About this episode… For decades, advisors operated under the assumption that there was a single path to success—a defined route dominated by the largest and most prominent firms. Over time, the landscape of options expanded, and the independent space matured. With it came a new set of challenges: how to turn the pursuit of freedom and control into something durable, scalable, and ultimately into a true enterprise. Jim Dickson has been thinking through that challenge for most of his career. After two decades at Merrill, Jim went on to found Sanctuary Wealth (a story we shared earlier in this series), where he played a central role in shaping what supportive independence could look like for growing advisory teams. Today, his own journey has entered a new chapter with Elevation Point—a next-generation independent platform focused on helping advisors take business ownership to a new level, with alignment, scalability, and long-term value at the core. In this episode, Jim and Louis Diamond talk about what led Jim to this new chapter, including: Elevation Point's unique value proposition—and how it fills a gap in the landscape. The value of capital—and how Elevation Point adds value along the way. Increasing enterprise value—and what advisors can do to grow without sacrificing control. Ownership and alignment—and why “how much of the pie you actually own” becomes more important as firms grow. Growth and partnership—and what it really means to build a firm intentionally over time. AI, data, and technology—and how each can support better decision-making. This is a story about yet another evolution in the landscape of options available to advisors—and why the future of independence is less about exits and more about elevation. Want to learn more about where, why, and how advisors like you are moving? Click to contact us or call 908-879-1002. Related Resources The Right Way to Build a TeamThree strategies to create a foundation designed to foster long-term alignment and growth—and, ultimately, a legacy. MaxCeV™: How to Maximize Your Career Enterprise ValueThis tool breaks down four key factors that contribute to career enterprise value, offering a framework for advisors to conceptualize and achieve their full potential. An Advisor's Guide to 2026: What 2025 Set in Motion and What Comes NextAs 2026 comes into focus, advisors face a new set of strategic questions. This Industry Update explores the forces reshaping growth, deal structures, and enterprise value—and what those shifts may signal for the new year and beyond. JIM DICKSON FOUNDING PARTNER AND CEO  Jim Dickson is a seasoned executive, entrepreneur, private investor, and innovator in wealth management with over four decades of experience in the financial services industry. Renowned for his advocacy for independent financial advisors, Jim is a visionary leader with experience in designing and implementing high-growth strategies for advisory firms.  Jim's deep understanding of the industry landscape positions him as a driving force behind transformative change, empowering advisors and firms to thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace. His growth mindset for RIAs and independence-seeking advisors prioritizes an “advisor-first” approach, tailored to an advisor's values and long-term vision.  Jim co-founded Elevation Point with Mark Penske in 2024 to serve as a value-aligned growth partner to independence-focused advisors and RIAs. Jim previously founded and built nationally recognized wealth management firm Sanctuary Wealth, which he launched in 2018. He was the visionary behind Sanctuary Wealth's Partnered IndependenceSM platform, providing elite advisors with all of the tools, services, and resources needed to fully and effectively serve their clients. Under Jim's leadership, it grew rapidly into one of the industry's top RIA firms, with more than $25 billion in assets and 76 partner firms in 28 states by 2023, when he left the firm.  Prior to Sanctuary Wealth, Jim spent 20 years as a senior divisional executive building and leading strategy for Merrill Lynch in Indianapolis and Chicago. He began his career as an accountant at Ernst & Young in Indianapolis.  Jim received his bachelor's degree in accounting and finance from Butler University, where he later served on the Board of Trustees for six years. He has been a leadership conference judge for FFA, a national non-profit organization preparing middle and high school students for careers in agricultural science, business, and technology.

A leveling off of temperatures is expected to come soon but not before lower than normal temperatures pop in for the weekend according Ben Jarboe's conversation with ag meteorologist Stu Muck. The winter has been a cold one across the US causing the waterways to lock up with ice. Kiley Allan talks with barge captain Jimmy "JRock" Cheatham to learn how they navigate the icy waters in order to keep the world moving. With it being National FFA Week we are looking into some great things Wisconsin members have done. Stephanie Hoff has a chat with former state FFA officer Tyson Gehrke from Fennimore to see how his recent trip to Spain has changed the outlook of his future. Last night the State Of The Union was given by President Trump and one member from the Wisconsin agricultural community was in attendance. Stephanie Hoff gets the scoop with president of the Wisconsin Soybean Association, Doug Rebout, and Congressman Mark Pocan. They share what the process was to get Doug to the speech and why it was important for a member of the agriculture community to be there. Fabulous Farm Babe Pam Jahnke is joined by Ashley Huhn from the Steffes Group to get some insight on what is happening with Wisconsin auctions. He says land is one of the top things being auctioned off this spring.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we sit down with Leah Flinchbaugh, Pennsylvania's State FFA Secretary, to talk about agriculture in the commonwealth and the role young leaders play in shaping its future. Leah shares her personal path into agriculture, what it's really like to represent FFA members across Pennsylvania, and what she's seeing as she travels the state engaging with students, chapters, and communities. We discuss how agriculture today extends far beyond farming, the importance of ag education and leadership development, and why programs like FFA remain critical to Pennsylvania's economy and rural communities.

Amanda Holman has been the advisor of Iola High School's FFA chapter for the last nine years. She's watched how the organization has helped develop leaders and challenge young people to grow in new and exciting ways. This week is National FFA Week, a chance to celebrate the nation's largest student-led organization and reflect on its impact. In this week's episode of “Registered,” we do just that, talking with Holman about just what makes her so passionate about FFA.

  On this episode of the WB Download, host Jeff Wieland sits down with Mark Staley and Todd Casey from 84 Lumber to talk about what it really takes to build strong homes and even stronger partnerships.Jeff and his guests dive into the long-standing relationship between 84 Lumber and Wieland Builders, discussing the critical role of consistent lumber supply, dependable sales support, and navigating the ever-changing building materials market that's needed for custom home builders. From market fluctuations to procurement challenges, Mark and Todd share how their team prioritizes quality, reliability, and customer service in every interaction.As a second-generation, family-owned company, 84 Lumber's history and culture were front and center in the conversation. They break down their manager trainee program, leadership development, and how they invest in young, innovative employees to keep the company and the industry moving forward.The episode also covers:The value of guaranteed bids in an unpredictable marketWhy proper delivery and material handling can make or break a jobHonest conversations about overhead, margins, and the realities of running a construction businessThe challenges of negotiating pricing and managing financial riskBeyond the jobsite, Mark and Todd share 84 Lumber's involvement in tiny homes, disaster relief initiatives, and community support programs including the Boy Scouts, along with personal stories from their experiences in 4-H and FFA.Throughout the episode, one theme stands out: mutual respect, transparency, and teamwork are the foundation of a successful partnership.If you're in the construction industry or simply want a behind-the-scenes look at how strong builder-supplier relationships drive successful projects, this is an episode you won't want to miss.84 Lumber websiteEmail Jeff your comments, questions, and topic requests, or be a guest on The WB Download.Email: WBDOWNLOAD@wielandbuilders.comSee Wieland Builders custom home gallery  www.wielandbuilders.comReceive inspiration monthly in our monthly newsletter See podcast behind the scenes photosFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Houzz or Pinterest 

The 46th annual meeting of the Wisconsin FFA Alumni brought historic high marks for membership. Pam Jahnke discusses the accomplishments and what's ahead with Tari Costello, executive director of the group. Costello says they've gained 2,000 more members in the past year, as well as 10 new alumni chapters statewide. Nick Lowe is pleased to see the numbers. Lowe is a life-long member of the Stoughton FFA and Stoughton FFA Alumni. He explains how his parents helped inspire his engagement with FFA, and how he elevated his activities to the state level. Another blustery day for Wisconsin with winds whipping up to 35 miles per hour. Stu Muck says the winds should settle down later this week but not before some lumpy precipitation moves through. The Mid-West Farm Report has partnered with the Professional Dairy Producers for their annual business conference coming up March 4-5. Ben Jarboe highlights some of the top shelf conversations that will be offered, including Dr. David Kohl. Kohl, Professor Emeritus of Ag Finance and Small Business Management at Virginia Tech, will speak on building a resilient dairy business. Resilient, nimble dairy operations often have three to six different revenue streams. Kohl says diversification strategies discussed will include value-added creameries, agritourism, special events, cattle genetics sales, methane digesters, and consulting services. First time attendees could score free admission courtesy of the Mid-West Farm Report. Just text your name and email address to 877-301-3276. Valued at more than $400!Markets are still trying to figure out what the tariff conversations mean for agriculture. With the Supreme Court denying President Trump's tariff's, but then the president deploying another round of tariffs under a different measure - everyone's confused. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend, tries to sort through what we know now. Also, beef consumption remains well supported by consumers despite higher prices.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wisconsin FFA held its second annual FFA auctioneering competition, with Junie Kierce, a junior at Waunakee High School, capturing first place. Kierce visits with Ben Jarboe about how she happened upon the competition, and prepared for the event. Junie looked for a mentor to sharpen her skills and connected with fundraising auctioneer Jenny Gale of North Prairie. Training began with mastering numbers—counting forward and backward, working in quarters and hundreds—to build a strong foundation. Tongue twisters were a major part of practice to develop rhythm, clarity, and speed before refining an auction chant. Once comfortable with cadence and numbers, Junie worked on incorporating filler words and creating a smooth chant. Beyond the chant, mentoring also focused on salesmanship, knowing the items, stage presence, and overcoming stage fright. The Wisconsin Auctioneers Association promotes the competition to introduce FFA students to career opportunities in the auction industry. Be grateful you're not in New York City today! Stu Muck says the wild winter weather they're dealing with on the East Coast won't make its presence felt in WI, but our temps will stay cold.Farmers aren't the only ones who pay close attention to the weather for their occupations. So do riverboat captains. Kiley Allan catches up with Jimmy “JRock” Cheatham, Pilot Barge Captain on the Mississippi River. While navigation continues, heavy river ice can cut travel speeds in half and requires square barge configurations to prevent ice from packing into gaps and hindering steering. To navigate treacherous winter conditions and lower water levels caused by ongoing droughts, captains must reduce tow sizes—sometimes from 42+ barges down to 25—which directly impacts corporate profitability.Congratulations to Bryanna and Dylan Handel of Barneveld. They've been named the 2026 Compeer Financial Groundbreakers of the Year. Pam Jahnke explains their farming operation.Wisconsin FFA Alumni have some big plans for 2026! Tari Costello, executive director of the group, explains that they have 2,000 more members this year compared to last, with 10 new chapters added to the roster. Costello says the group is undertaking an effort to launch FFA license plates for the state. Once they've secured all the financial support needed, as well as necessary signatures to begin, they estimate that $25 of each license plate sold would end up benefitting FFA in Wisconsin. She explains the plan to Pam Jahnke.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who would have thought a combination of FFA and dairy cattle would take students overseas to Scotland? Cate Ehle, Ella Sannes, Ana Mikkelson, Anneka Christensen will take the trip with their advisor, Samantha White, to Edinburgh, Scotland for the Royal Highland Show. There, they will compete in the dairy judging competition. They earned their invitation after competing in the 2025 World Dairy Expo FFA judging competition. The ladies sat down to tell Kiley Allan a little bit about what they're looking for.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

National FFA Week: The February 23 edition of the AgNet News Hour put the spotlight on one of the most influential youth organizations in agriculture, the National FFA Organization. Hosts Nick Papagni and Josh McGill opened the program discussing improving weather conditions across California as bloom season approaches, but the heart of the show focused on celebrating National FFA Week and the leadership pipeline shaping agriculture's future. Joining the program was Christy Meyer, Marketing and Communications Director for the National FFA Organization. Meyer shared that FFA now serves more than one million members nationwide, with over 9,000 chapters across all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Established in 1948, National FFA Week was strategically designed to include George Washington's birthday, honoring his agricultural roots and reinforcing farming's foundational role in America. Throughout the week, chapters host service projects, alumni celebrations, advisor appreciation events, and community outreach efforts. One of the most impactful days is Advisor Appreciation Day, recognizing agricultural educators who often serve as mentors well beyond the classroom. Papagni emphasized that nearly every FFA member he has interviewed credits a teacher or advisor for life-changing guidance. Meyer noted that FFA participation does not require growing up on a farm. Students enroll through agricultural education courses that range from animal science and plant science to agricultural technology and agribusiness. The organization prepares students for more than 300 agriculture-related career pathways, including food science, engineering, communications, research, and emerging ag technologies. Leadership development remains the cornerstone of the organization. Public speaking, critical thinking, community service, and hands-on supervised agricultural experiences (SAEs) equip members with marketable skills that translate well beyond agriculture. McGill shared his own background studying agricultural education and acknowledged how FFA builds confidence and professionalism in young leaders. The program also touched on broader agricultural policy developments, including federal efforts to prioritize domestic glyphosate and phosphate production. Hosts noted that strengthening agricultural inputs at home could help stabilize costs for growers nationwide. As bloom season begins and spring approaches, the message was clear: the future of agriculture depends not only on technology and policy, but on cultivating the next generation of leaders. National FFA Week serves as a reminder that agriculture's strength lies in its people, and the young men and women proudly wearing blue jackets today may soon be leading farms, companies, and communities tomorrow.

Wisconsin FFA in partnership with the Wisconsin Auctioneers Association recently wrapped up their second annual FFA auctioneering competition. The winner for this year's competition was junior Junie Kierce out of Waunakee High School. She shares her story of becoming a champion starting with a liking of the TV show Storage Wars. Her mentor Jenny Gehl, an auctioneer out of North Prairie, also shares what it was like to teach this unique skill and have her protégé become a champion. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Montana FFA Association Executive Director Megan Irion joins four of the 2025–2026 State Officers for a special conversation with our network’s Colton Young as they celebrate National FFA Week. Tune in as they share why National FFA Week matters, reflect on the State Officers’ year of service across Montana, and highlight the impact FFA continues to have on students, schools, and communities. From meaningful moments to plenty of laughs, this is one episode you won’t want to miss!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Montana FFA Association Executive Director Megan Irion joins four of the 2025–2026 State Officers for a special conversation with Northern Ag Network's Colton Young as they celebrate National FFA Week.Listen in as they share why National FFA Week matters, reflect on the State Officer team's year of service across Montana, and highlight the impact FFA continues to have on students, schools, and communities. From meaningful moments to plenty of laughs, this is one episode you won't want to miss!

Nearly 300 4-H and FFA students experienced an unforgettable UT Ag Night hosted by the Tennessee Farm Bureau earlier this week. From stepping onto campus and touring iconic Neyland Stadium to cheering on the Vols at a men's basketball game, students got a true taste of college life. The evening also featured an inspiring career panel, where industry professionals shared insights and opportunities available in the field of agriculture.

Ep 247 | Deli meat could cause cancer, China might be infiltrating the FFA, and E. coli has been found in a popular brand's raw milk. What is going on?! This week on Discover Ag, Natalie and Tara go beyond the headlines to discuss what's fact and what's fear in the world of food and agriculture. They also unpack Jennifer Garner's surprise move to take her organic children's food brand public and react to a viral cinnamon harvesting reel that will be the most satisfying thing you see this week What We Discovered This Week

We visit with the FFA state officers about plans to commemorate National FFA Week, their activities this past year, and future plans.  They make for an optimistic future.  

Consumer demand for protein continues to fuel a lot of agricultural markets. From beef to dairy - more protein is popping up on all kinds of labels. That's carried over to the bison industry too. Jill Welke finds out about how growers are dealing with the demand, and the lack of a skilled workforce to help harvest the animals. Lee Graese from Northstar Bison in Haugen, WI shares his challenges.Rain gauges are back in action across Wisconsin this morning, with some lightning along for the entertainment. Stu Muck says those showers won't stick around though. Sunshines back on the way later this morning.Improving weather has farmers starting to move some of their equipment around in the shed and yard. Maybe you've decided it's time to replace a piece or let go of something. Steffes Group Auction is helping move those pieces with consignment auctions all across the U.S. and Canada. Ashley Huhn tells Pam Jahnke that their ability to collect information piece by piece and feature it in their sales has led to great interest and super prices. Paid for by Steffes Group.The Wisconsin FFA Alumni is heading to Middleton for its annual convention Friday and Saturday. Pam Jahnke highlights some of the auction items that will be presented, all created by the state FFA officers.Been there - done that. It's a phrase that applies to Wisconsin's ginseng industry. Will Hsu, president, Hsu’s Ginseng Enterprises and Hsu Ginseng Farms, Wausau tells Stephanie Hoff about the market devastation the industry faced during the first Trump administration. Now, with more tariffs back in play, Wisconsin's ginseng industry has become a little brittle. He says they've turned to elements like agrotourism to try and fill the gaps they're missing in global trade.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

3 days of near-record freeze has done as much damage as a hurricane ripping through Florida. Ag. Comm. Wilton Simpson is working with federal officials for relief. Plus, the Farmers Feeding Florida farm program purchases surplus products for needy food distribution. And successful expansion of FFA

Kasie Harriet is the milkmaid at Shepherd Farms, where she and her husband Jacob are building a direct-to-consumer farm business that includes raw milk, sourdough, tallow skincare, and more, while managing cows in a rotational grazing setup and learning what it really takes to run a small dairy at the family scale.  In This Episode, We Explore:  Kasie's path from FFA and wildlife work into farm life and dairy cows  Why they pursued raw milk and how that led to buying their first family milk cow  Lessons learned from a first cow that tested positive for bacteria and how they handled it  Setting up a movable, low-cost milking stanchion and why “you don't need a lot to do a lot”  Hand milking vs machine milking and the real-world importance of equipment that is easy to clean  Calf sharing, grafting a calf, and how that can add flexibility to dairy cow ownership  Selling excess milk, managing weekly customers, and handling jars and deposits  What to look for when buying a milk cow: testing, temperament, training, feeding history, and more  Using Facebook to educate customers, build trust, and grow a local direct-to-consumer community  Why This Episode Matters  If you are considering a family milk cow or selling raw milk direct-to-consumer, this episode walks through the practical realities that often get skipped, including cow selection, sanitation concerns, equipment choices, customer management, and the setbacks that can happen even when you do things carefully. Kasie's story is a grounded reminder to learn, adjust, and keep moving forward.  Resources Mentioned  Keeping a Family Cow by Joann S. Grohman  Keeping a Family Milk Cow, holistic and organic (Facebook group)  Find Out More  Shepherd Farms | https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087351095567 Looking for grass-based breeders? Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.Upcoming Grazing EventsNoble Profitability Essentials - Jefferson City, Mo, March 24-25, 2026Visit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmond Agriculture Grazing Grass LinksWebsiteCommunity (on Facebook)Original Music by Louis Palfrey

This week we share how Utah is in a cougar debate tied to declining deer herds.  We have fun with Real versus AI-generated stories. Plus how there is value in FFA and 4H, exploring key issues shaping our future youth. Join radio hosts Rebecca Wanner aka ‘BEC' and Jeff ‘Tigger' Erhardt (Tigger & BEC) with the latest in Outdoors & Western Lifestyle News! Utah Cougar Cull Sparks Tension as State Studies Mule Deer Declines Utah Cougar Cull Sparks Tension with Hunters & Houndsmen as State Studies Deer Declines Utah wildlife managers have launched a three-year study that involves culling mountain lions in six game management units to see whether reducing cougar numbers will help struggling mule deer herds. While the goal is more deer on the landscape, many of Utah's houndsmen say the plan puts their dogs, their livelihoods, and the future of lion hunting at risk. State biologists say cougar predation is exceeding sustainable levels in parts of Utah, with some units seeing more than eight percent—and in some cases double-digit—deer losses to lions. The study focuses on the Boulder, Monroe, Stansbury, Pine Valley, Wasatch East, and Zion units, where state-run trapping efforts are now being added on top of already legal year-round lion hunting. That's where the concern comes in for houndsmen and from hunters. The Utah Houndsmen Association opposes the study, warning that state-set traps and snares create dangerous conditions for hounds and discourage outfitters from turning dogs loose. Houndsmen are asking the state to release trap location maps so they can hunt safely and continue doing the hands-on, ethical predator management they've provided for generations. Supporters of the study, including several major conservation groups, say the data is needed. Mule deer have been collared across the study units, and early observations show poor body condition in some animals. Funding for the research is coming from sportsmen-driven organizations, and some groups are taking a wait-and-see approach before judging the results. Critics of predator management argue that habitat loss and winter severity are the real problems behind deer declines. But state officials point out that while habitat issues affect much of Utah, roughly 30 percent of the state appears to be dealing with a true predator-driven, top-down problem—something the legislature has directed wildlife managers to address. For houndsmen, the bigger issue may be perception. At a time when lion hunting faces pressure across the West, they worry this study could hand ammunition to anti-hunting groups and further threaten a tradition built around trained dogs, fair chase, and hands-on conservation. The debate puts Utah's houndsmen squarely in the middle—supporting healthy deer herds and sound science, while fighting to protect their dogs, their way of life, and the future of cougar hunting. Reference: https://www.outdoorlife.com/conservation/utah-culling-cougars-new-study True Stories vs. AI-Generated Stories Why Authentic Experience Still Matters FUN stories that MANY you will be surprised to learn are actually true! Take a listen to find out if you can guess which are! Why To Support FFA & 4-H Supporting FFA and 4-H helps young people develop skills for leadership, communication, and personal growth. These organizations also help youth learn about agriculture and prepare for careers in the field.  Benefits of FFA and 4-H  Leadership: Learn how to take responsibility, set goals, and make decisions Communication: Build strong communication skills Resilience: Learn how to bounce back from challenges Professional development: Learn skills that help prepare for college and careers Character: Develop positive character traits like trustworthiness, respect, and responsibility Self-esteem: Increase self-esteem and confidence Agriculture knowledge: Learn how to grow food, raise animals, and fix things Why support these organizations? To help young people become leaders in their communities  To help young people learn about agriculture and careers in the field  To help young people develop life skills that will benefit them throughout their lives  To help young people learn how to care for and show animals, animal husbandry OUTDOORS FIELD REPORTS & COMMENTS We want to hear from you! If you have any questions, comments, or stories to share about bighorn sheep, outdoor adventures, or wildlife conservation, don't hesitate to reach out. Call or text us at 305-900-BEND (305-900-2363), or send an email to BendRadioShow@gmail.com. Stay connected by following us on social media at Facebook/Instagram @thebendshow or by subscribing to The Bend Show on YouTube. Visit our website at TheBendShow.com for more exciting content and updates! https://thebendshow.com/ https://www.facebook.com/thebendshow WESTERN LIFESTYLE & THE OUTDOORS Jeff ‘Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca ‘BEC' Wanner are passionate news broadcasters who represent the working ranch world, rodeo, and the Western way of life. They are also staunch advocates for the outdoors and wildlife conservation. As outdoorsmen themselves, Tigger and BEC provide valuable insight and education to hunters, adventurers, ranchers, and anyone interested in agriculture and conservation. With a shared love for the outdoors, Tigger & BEC are committed to bringing high-quality beef and wild game from the field to your table. They understand the importance of sharing meals with family, cooking the fruits of your labor, and making memories in the great outdoors. Through their work, they aim to educate and inspire those who appreciate God's Country and life on the land. United by a common mission, Tigger & BEC offer a glimpse into the life beyond the beaten path and down dirt roads. They're here to share knowledge, answer your questions, and join you in your own success story. Adventure awaits around the bend. With The Outdoors, the Western Heritage, Rural America, and Wildlife Conservation at the forefront, Tigger and BEC live this lifestyle every day. To learn more about Tigger & BEC's journey and their passion for the outdoors, visit TiggerandBEC.com. https://tiggerandbec.com/

Unlock the transformative power of the Future Farmers of America — the organization shaping tomorrow's leaders (not just farmers!) in agriculture today. Whether you're a parent, educator, or community supporter, discover how just one opportunity can ignite confidence, leadership, and innovation in youth. If you've ever wondered how agricultural education develops problem solvers and future-ready workers, this episode reveals exactly how FFA's unique classroom and hands-on experiences plant seeds for lifelong success. Val Arsvold, the visionary behind Minnesota's FFA Foundation, shares her inspiring journey from shy farm kid to champion of youth empowerment. She unveils the core of what makes FFA more than just an organization — a movement that fosters leadership, community service, and career readiness across rural and urban communities alike.

In this episode of the Red Dirt Agronomy Podcast, we're joined by 16-year-old Brayden Arnall, who recently won the National FFA Agriscience Award. This episode isn't just about a student project—it's a story of curiosity turned passion, and a father-son bet that led to a national title. Brayden walks us through his award-winning research on nitrogen stabilizers, tillage practices, and ammonia volatilization, breaking down complex science in an engaging and relatable way. Co-hosts Dr. Brian Arnall and Dave Deken, along with guest host Dr. Paul Weckler, offer commentary on the broader impact of youth agricultural programs like FFA and 4-H in Oklahoma and beyond.Listeners will hear about Brayden's methodology, the surprising results from his controlled barn experiments, and how these findings could influence farming practices. Plus, he gives a sneak peek into his next project on winter wheat growth and irrigation. Whether you're a researcher, educator, student, or just someone who appreciates the next generation of ag leaders, this episode is packed with inspiration, science, and Oklahoma charm.Top 10 Key TakeawaysBraden Arnall won the National FFA Agriscience Fair with a project on nitrogen stabilizers and tillage.His experiment showed that no-till plots had more ammonia volatilization losses than tilled ones.Anvol was the most effective nitrogen stabilizer in reducing nitrogen loss.Braden began his agriscience journey in middle school, building on skills from 4-H.His project used controlled PVC-tube environments and ammonia detection tools.He's now researching irrigation impacts on winter wheat and nitrogen use.Youth participation in agriscience is strong in Oklahoma, especially Stillwater.Braden's early exposure to research is guiding his career toward agronomy.The family's tradition of “5-minute science” helped Braden understand college-level concepts early.The episode emphasizes the value of mentorship and community in ag education.Major Discussion Timestamps00:00–00:02 – Episode setup: the “father-son bet,” Brayden's national win, and where to find info.00:01–00:02 – Plug: upcoming recording at the Central Oklahoma Cattle Conference (Feb. 13).00:02–00:04 – On location at KNID AgriFest (Enid); Oklahoma Wheat Commission booth + the cinnamon roll/bread scene.00:04–00:07 – Brian explains the “promise” and Brayden's path: early success, then winning nationals + spotlight presentation.00:07–00:10 – Dr. Paul Weckler joins; why Agriscience matters for STEM ag careers; what Agriscience competition is.00:10–00:11 – 4-H speaking background and why it gave Brayden confidence in FFA.00:11–00:16 – The research: nitrogen stabilizers, tilled vs no-till, ammonia volatilization + nitrate leachate; how the measurements were taken.00:16–00:18 – Age check (Brayden is 16) + “five-minute science” mentoring and learning the nitrogen cycle.00:18–00:21 – Agriscience momentum in Stillwater; youth research examples; workforce need in ag engineering/ag systems tech.00:21–00:25 – Brayden's new project: rainfed vs irrigated winter wheat response with stabilizers; real-world Oklahoma weather challenges.00:25–00:27 – Undergrad research opportunities + how early research can feed future grad students.00:27–00:29 – Media moment: Brayden featured on “Is This a Great State or What?”00:28–00:31 – What's next: chapter officer run, public speaking, possible land judging; speech topic See & Spray.00:30–00:32 – Dr. Weckler's perspective: computer vision roots and how today's tech builds on earlier work.00:30–00:32 – Staying active in both 4-H and FFA; what each teaches.00:32–00:33 – Wrap + thanks + where to connect. RedDirtAgronomy.com

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann speak with Dr. Scott Wright, a world-renowned cardiologist at the Mayo Clinic and a former Kentucky FFA State President (1982-83). Dr. Wright shares how his roots in McCreary County and his formative years in the FFA provided the leadership foundation necessary to excel in the global medical field.Links:Mayo ClinicMcCreary County FFA

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann are joined by Kyle Kelly, Director of Public Affairs for the Kentucky Farm Bureau and a longtime Kentucky FFA Foundation board member. As the 2026 legislative session kicks off in Frankfort, Cam provides an essential preview of the agricultural policies that will impact farmers and FFA members across the state.Links:Owen County FFAKentucky Farm BureauFarmland Transition InitiativeSelling Farmer Tax CreditKentucky Hunters for the Hungry

A fifteen-year-old stock show competitor opens up about life in FFA, why she chose pigs over sports, and how caring for animals builds real discipline. She shares the feed plans, show prep, and family support that keep her moving toward a future in nursing.• moving from 4‑H to FFA and finding a better fit• what FFA teaches about livestock, routine, and responsibility• choosing pigs, training methods, and daily handling• feeding strategies, target weights, and show prep for OYE• weekly care, pen cleaning, grooming, and teamwork with her sister• honest talk about butchering, costs, and hard choices• future goals in healthcare inspired by her grandmother.Shoutout to :Jaxi Long The Long Family FFA Ag-Gear Store https://www.aggearstore.com/Use Code: Milesmountains For 15% Off Raising Awareness:Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW)Mental Health Send us a text

How effective is your FFA chapter's social media strategy? Raquel Taylor, Taylor Ruth, and Nathan Conner dive into research exploring how secondary agriculture teachers use social media to promote their FFA chapters. We examine which platforms are favored, the content shared, and the significant benefits teachers experience. Despite widespread use, findings reveal untapped potential and a clear need for professional development. This is a must-listen for insights into optimizing your social media presence, reaching the right audiences, and elevating your FFA chapter's story online for greater impact.   Journal article: https://jae-online.org/index.php/jae/article/view/40

How can we live and enjoy a better life? Harmony Harvest Farm began with a lofty dream in 2011 and a vision of helping people to live and experience a better life through fresh flowers. Jessica Hall of Harmony Harvest Farm and Flower Genius joined Mary, Jeff, and Eric for a conversation about the farm business's vision, mission, values, and history.Jessica owns and operates the farm business with her mom and sister in Weyers Cave, Virginia. Jessica and her family believe Virginia-grown and American-grown flowers should be accessible to everyone, everywhere. To fulfill this vision and mission, they built up soil health and nourished their flowers from the start, while being mindful of good land management, soil erosion, irrigation needs, and bed layout to fit the topography. Jessica emphasizes that a sustainable business that lives its values needs a complete toolbox with the right tools at the right time for the right application. For Jessica and Harmony Harvest Farm, the toolbox includes a strong, growing network of personal and business mentors. To learn about their heirloom chrysanthemums, plan a pick-your-own flower trip, experience a virtual mum summit and on-farm educational events, or order a floral bouquet, please visit Harmony Harvest Farm's website. We can all be 4 The Soil, for the future! Here is how with four principles:1) Keep the soil covered -- with living plants and residue. Cover crops are our friends and allies; avoid leaving soil bare.2) Minimize soil disturbance -- Practice no-till or gentle tillage as much as possible in your field or garden.3) Maximize living roots -- for the longest time to improve biodiversity, soil structure, and life in the soil.4) Energize with diversity -- aboveground and belowground with high-quality food for soil and plants, and integration of livestock on cropland. If you are interested in art and framing the 4 The Soil posters for your office or home, the 16” by 20” posters are available for purchase and printing as single posters or a set of five posters.If you have questions about soil and water conservation practices, natural resource concerns, and soil health principles and practices to restore the life in your soil, call or visit a USDA Service Center, a Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District office, or your local Virginia Cooperative Extension office.  4 the Soil: A Conversation is made possible with funding support from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and The Agua Fund. Other partners include the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service; Virginia Cooperative Extension; Virginia State University; Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation; and partners of the Virginia Soil Health Coalition.Disclaimer: Views expressed on this podcast are those of each individual guest.To download a copy of this, or any other show, visit the website 4thesoil.org. Music used during today's program is courtesy of the Flip Charts. All rights reserved. 4 the Soil: A Conversation is produced by On the Farm Radio in collaboration with Virginia Tech. The host and co-hosts are Jeff Ishee, Mary Sketch Bryant, and Eric Bendfeldt.

A Local Returns to Serve Her Community The Northern Shenandoah Valley welcomes a familiar face to its agricultural community. Cynthia Fairbanks, a Clarke County native who grew up on her family's farm in Berryville, has returned home to serve as the new agricultural extension agent based in Warren County. Moreover, her role extends across the entire five-county region, filling a critical position that has remained vacant since the passing of Corey Childs. On her very first day, Cynthia joins host Janet Michael and fellow agent Karen Poff on The Valley Today to introduce herself to the community. Despite having been on the job for less than eight hours, she radiates enthusiasm for the work ahead. From 4-H Member to Extension Professional Cynthia's journey to this position began in her own backyard. Growing up, she actively participated in 4-H and FFA, showing steers, goats, and pigs while her family operated a small cow-calf operation. Additionally, she raised meat goats throughout high school to sell. This early passion for livestock led her to Virginia Tech, where she initially pursued dairy science. However, she soon discovered that her interests lay more in the business side of agriculture than the science side. Consequently, she transitioned to agricultural economics, ultimately earning both her bachelor's and master's degrees in the field. "I really enjoyed the business side of education more than the science side," Cynthia explains during the conversation. The Internship That Changed Everything During her undergraduate years, Cynthia interned with the Frederick County Extension Office for two summers. This experience proved transformative. She worked alongside various agents, including Karen, gaining exposure to everything from financial programming to master gardener initiatives. "I was not aware of all the different opportunities while I was in 4-H myself," Cynthia admits. "It truly was a learning curve getting to see all of the different opportunities." That internship solidified her career path. When the Warren County position opened, she didn't hesitate. In fact, she and her fiancé moved from Bedford County, putting a new house under contract in just four days. Filling a Critical Gap Cynthia brings something unique to the table: expertise in agricultural economics. As Karen points out, the region hasn't had a farm business management specialist since Bill Whittle retired. While Cynthia serves primarily as an animal science agent, her current knowledge of agricultural economics addresses a significant need in the farming community. Furthermore, her master's work focused on incorporating data into farming practices. Her final project involved forecasting Virginia corn prices over five years in relation to climate change. This technical expertise, combined with her coding skills, positions her to help farmers make data-driven decisions about their operations. "Being able to take previous data and kind of forecast what that's gonna look like" represents just one of the valuable services she can provide, Cynthia notes. Building Relationships and Assessing Needs Rather than immediately launching new programs, Cynthia plans to spend her first year listening. She intends to attend events, shadow other agents like Elizabeth Baldwin in Page County, and most importantly, survey the community to understand what farmers and producers actually need. "I don't wanna spend a lot of time on something that really isn't going to be quite effective to my audience in this area," she explained. "I wanna be as effective as possible by really getting the resources directly from the people that I'm going to be helping." Nevertheless, she's already brainstorming ideas. During her first day, she discussed implementing an embryology program with the local 4-H agent, drawing on her recent experience hatching chicks. The Advantage of Local Roots Being from the area gives Cynthia a distinct advantage. She already has established relationships throughout the five counties she serves. This familiarity with the region's agricultural landscape will help her hit the ground running. "There's a lot of perks with that," Cynthia acknowledged. "Getting to already have some relationships developed in these five counties that I'll be serving... will really help with this position." Janet emphasizes another benefit: "It's going to be great that you came into this, not necessarily knowing all of the extension things, so you're gonna be in a much better position to be explaining to people, oh no, but we also do this." Training and Professional Development Despite her impressive credentials, Cynthia faces a steep learning curve. In March, she'll attend a two-day agricultural agent onboarding at Virginia Tech, where she'll meet her cohort of new agents. Additionally, she'll participate in bimonthly training sessions at various agricultural research and extension centers across Virginia. These training opportunities excite Karen, who noted that agents get to visit facilities specializing in everything from fruit research to seafood production. "When you're in school, it's a lot of book work and not as much getting to see, touch, feel, and taste what practical applications are like," she observed. Continuing Essential Programs While Cynthia develops new initiatives, she'll also help maintain existing programs. These include pesticide recertification courses and spring drinking water clinics. Furthermore, she'll assist with general agricultural questions, even filling in for master gardeners during their off-season. As Karen reminded listeners, extension agents embrace the philosophy of "I don't know, but I'll find out." This approach proves essential because agricultural science constantly evolves. Karen recalled how recommendations about salmonella in eggs changed dramatically during her tenure, teaching her to preface answers with "from what we know today." An Open Door Policy Cynthia encourages community members to reach out through multiple channels. They can call the Front Royal office at 540-635-4549, email her at cynthia2000@vt.edu, or follow the Northern Shenandoah Valley Agriculture Natural Resources Facebook page. The office maintains regular hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Warren County Government Center. "I am here to stay and I'm very excited to be here," Cynthia declared, music to Karen's ears after years of position turnover. Looking Ahead As Cynthia settles into her new role, she represents a new generation of extension agents—one that combines traditional agricultural knowledge with modern data analytics and business acumen. Her local roots, combined with her fresh perspective and technical skills, position her to serve the Northern Shenandoah Valley's agricultural community for years to come. For farmers and producers throughout the region, her arrival signals renewed capacity and fresh opportunities. Whether they need help with farm business planning, livestock management, or simply identifying a mysterious bug, Fairbanks stands ready to serve as their connection to Virginia Tech's vast research resources. Indeed, extension's mission continues: bringing university research to the people who need it most, one farmer, one question, and one community at a time.  

WEDNESDAY HR 2 RRR Trivia - What does .com stand for? The Floirda Fair . 4H and FFA kids. Russ tries to get Amber to focus on JC Love. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WEDNESDAY HR 2 RRR Trivia - What does .com stand for? The Floirda Fair . 4H and FFA kids. Russ tries to get Amber to focus on JC Love.

In this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Nick Papagni, “the Ag Meter”, and Lorrie Boyer deliver a wide-ranging discussion on the most pressing issues facing agriculture at both the state and national levels. The show opens with California weather updates and a look at renewed activity from the USDA under the Trump administration, including export reports, WASDE data, and growing attention on agriculture policy. A major theme throughout the episode is farm labor and immigration reform. The hosts stress the urgent need for practical solutions that protect long-term agricultural workers while ensuring accountability and legal pathways for employment. Water policy, regulatory burdens, and the widening gap between production costs and farm income are also highlighted as critical challenges, especially for California growers facing some of the strictest regulations in the world without corresponding price support. The conversation also addresses concerns over imported produce undercutting U.S. farmers, including calls for a federal investigation into alleged Mexican strawberry dumping. Papagni and Boyer emphasize the importance of protecting domestic agriculture and ensuring American farmers can compete on a level playing field. World Ag Expo Spotlight A centerpiece of the episode is an in-depth interview with Megan Lawson, Marketing Director for the World Ag Expo, taking place February 10–12 in Tulare, California. Lawson explains why the World Ag Expo is the largest agricultural trade show in the world, featuring more than 1,200 exhibitors, representation from over 70 countries, and 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space. The hosts and Lawson discuss cutting-edge automation, driverless tractors, drones, irrigation systems, and the highly anticipated Top 10 New Products Competition. The event's strong focus on education, youth involvement through FFA, and support of local nonprofits through food vendors underscores its importance beyond just equipment sales. Farmers and non-farmers alike are encouraged to attend and experience the future of agriculture firsthand. Propane Innovation & Farm Energy Solutions The final segment features AgNet Media's Dale Sandlin in conversation with the Propane Education Research Council. The interview explores propane's growing role in agriculture, including cost-saving opportunities, backup power generation, irrigation engines, and emerging technologies such as steam soil treatment and flame weeding. With increasing strain on the electric grid, propane is presented as a reliable, affordable, and scalable energy solution for farms of all sizes. Grant opportunities through the Propane Farm Research Program and USDA programs are also discussed. Final Takeaway This episode reinforces AgNet West's pro-farmer mission—highlighting policy, innovation, and real-world solutions that help agriculture remain productive, competitive, and sustainable in a rapidly changing landscape.

In this Farm4Fun New Year's episode, we officially introduce Cody Vanderholm, the newest hire at Farm4Profit and our Project and Digital Media Manager.Cody lives in Stanton, Iowa, and brings a unique mix of ag roots, technical experience, and creative talent to the Farm4Profit team. He grew up showing cattle, still helps run Vanderholm Cattle Company with his dad, and works closely with 4-H and FFA families selling Angus and Simmental breeding stock.Before joining Farm4Profit, Cody built a diverse career across agriculture, equipment, precision ag, and marketing—including roles with Titan Machinery, HTS Ag, AlffCo, and more—while also growing his own business, Vanderholm Media.In this episode, we cover:Cody's farming background and cattle operationHow showing livestock shaped his path into agricultureHis journey through ag sales, precision ag, and equipment rolesHow Vanderholm Media got started and evolvedPhotography, drone work, tractor pulls, air shows, and light paintingHis passion for weather, travel, and capturing agriculture visuallyWhat excites him most about joining the Farm4Profit teamThis episode is part introduction, part behind-the-scenes, and part Farm4Fun—giving listeners a chance to get to know the person who'll be helping shape the future of Farm4Profit content.Welcome to the team, Cody—and welcome to the New Year. Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don't forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

California agriculture is facing growing challenges—from extreme weather and trade pressures to regulatory shifts—but the future of farming depends on the next generation. On this episode of the AgNet News Hour, hosts Nick “The Ag Meter” Papagni and Lorrie Boyer spotlight the California FFA Foundation, exploring how youth education shapes the state's agricultural workforce and leadership pipeline. Katie Otto, Executive Director of Development for the California FFA Foundation, shares her personal journey—from a young student hesitant about agriculture to a passionate advocate for FFA. She emphasizes the power of ag teachers, like her mentor Mr. Dodson, who change lives and open doors to leadership, public speaking, and career opportunities, even for students who don't grow up on a farm. With over 108,000 members in 374 chapters statewide, FFA reaches urban and rural students alike, providing hands-on experiences in agriculture, technology, finance, and leadership. The iconic blue jacket unites students across states, fostering lifelong connections and building a skilled workforce for every facet of the agriculture industry. Otto also highlights the critical role of industry and alumni support, including fundraising, mentoring, and volunteering to sustain programs that develop both soft and technical skills in students. Looking ahead, California FFA is gearing up for an active 2026 calendar: leadership academies, FFA Week, the Sacramento Leadership Experience, and the State FFA Leadership Conference in Ontario, which draws thousands of participants. Additionally, events like the Blue Corduroy Classic online auction help fund student opportunities, including travel, jackets, and educational programs. The episode also raises concerns about potential cuts to ag education in other states, highlighting the need to support teachers, rural communities, and student programs that sustain California's agricultural leadership. As Otto explains, investing in FFA ensures students are prepared for careers in production agriculture, agribusiness, technology, finance, and beyond, keeping California agriculture strong and innovative. Listen to the full episode for insights into FFA's impact on students, the importance of ag teachers, and the critical connection between youth programs and California's agricultural future. Key Takeaways FFA develops leadership, public speaking, and career skills for students from all backgrounds Ag teachers and industry mentors are essential to student success The blue jacket unifies youth nationwide, fostering lifelong connections California FFA prepares students for careers across agriculture, agribusiness, and technology 2026 will feature leadership academies, FFA Week, Sacramento Leadership Experience, and the State FFA Leadership Conference Listen & Get Involved

A One-Time Holiday Offer, Big Announcements, and What's Ahead for the Breeders Academy Community Welcome to our Christmas Special! Bred to Perfection and the Breeders Academy are thrilled to invite you to this very special holiday episode packed with exciting announcements, heartfelt gratitude, and a one-time opportunity you won't want to miss. In the spirit of Christmas, and in honor of our incredible 4-H and FFA communities, we're opening the door wider than ever before. What began as a special offer for youth and students is now available to all breeders for a limited time only.  This holiday season, we're giving back with massive discounts on Breeders Academy memberships, and these prices will never be this low again. If you're a new member, this episode is especially for you. You'll learn how to get started, where to find the "Start Here" pages, how to prepare questions, and when to schedule coaching calls. Most importantly, you'll hear this clearly: you are never alone on this journey. Join us as we celebrate Christmas, community, and the future of poultry breeding. Take your time, enjoy the journey, and let's make this Christmas the best one ever. #BreedersAcademy #BredToPerfection #ChristmasSpecial #PoultryBreeding #HolidaySavings #4H #FFA #BackyardBreeders #BreederCommunity #PoultryPodcast #OneTimeOffer #BreedingTheFuture See ya there! Kenny Troiano Founder of "The Breeders Academy"  We specialize in breeding, and breeding related topics. This includes proper selection practices and the use of proven breeding programs. It is our mission to provide our followers and members a greater understanding of poultry breeding, poultry genetics, poultry health care and disease prevention, and how to improve the production and performance ability of your fowl.  If you are interested in creating a strain, or improving your established strain, you are in the right place.  We also want to encourage you to join us at the Breeders Academy, where we will not only help you increase your knowledge of breeding and advance your skills as a breeder, but improve the quality and performance of your fowl. If you would like to learn more, go to: https://www.breedersacademy.com