Beyond the Jacket

By Lacie Evans, Rachel Zumbach, Paige Cruse

Connecting with FFA members & uncovering their journeys beyond the blue corduroy. Stories of passion, purpose & growth in ag. New episodes weekly!... more

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FAQs about Beyond the Jacket:

How many episodes does Beyond the Jacket have?

The podcast currently has 34 episodes available.

Beyond the Jacket episodes:

February 06, 2026 The Life of an FFA Advisor: Leadership, Mentorship, and Agriculture
In this episode of the Farm4Profit Podcast, we sit down with James Sharpe, the passionate FFA Advisor at Moore Haven FFA, to explore the impact of agricultural education and student leadership. From mentoring students to sparking a lifelong love of agriculture, James shares his journey guiding the next generation of FFA members.
We dive into the challenges and rewards of being an FFA advisor, uncover practical lessons for educators and students alike, and hear stories that go far beyond the classroom and the farm. Whether you’re an FFA member, a teacher, or simply curious about the future of agriculture, this episode is packed with inspiration, actionable advice, and heartwarming moments that highlight the power of mentorship, community, and leadership.
🎧 Listen now to learn how dedication, hard work, and community come together to shape the leaders of tomorrow in agriculture!
#FFA #AgricultureEducation #FutureFarmers #MooreHavenFFA #StudentLeadership #AgricultureLife #FFAAdvisor #LeadershipDevelopment #InspiringEducators #FarmLife #AgEd #MentorshipMatters #FFACommunity #YouthLeadership Be sure to follow us on social media to stay up to date!
Got thoughts on today’s episode or want to be a guest?
Email us anytime at [email protected]
See you next time for more conversations on FFA, SAE's and the future of
agriculture!
Facebook, Tik Tok, Instagram, X (Twitter), Youtube
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32min
January 30, 2026 From Hawaii to the Future of Ag: Social Science Stars Shine
We’re celebrating the Agriscience Fair Award winners in the Social Science category from Hawaii: Nicholas Nishimura and Lakeisha Quitog! 🏆🌺
In this episode, they share the inspiration behind their innovative project, the challenges they overcame, and what it means to explore agriculture through a social science lens. From research to real-world impact, their story is a perfect example of curiosity, creativity, and leadership in action.
🎧 Tune in now to hear their journey and discover how young minds are shaping the future of agriculture!
#FFA #AgriscienceFair #SocialScience #HawaiiFFA #FutureFarmers #AgEd #StudentResearch #YouthLeadership #InnovationInAgriculture #FFACommunity #PodcastEpisode Be sure to follow us on social media to stay up to date!
Got thoughts on today’s episode or want to be a guest?
Email us anytime at [email protected]
See you next time for more conversations on FFA, SAE's and the future of
agriculture!
Facebook, Tik Tok, Instagram, X (Twitter), Youtube
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.
...more
39min
January 23, 2026 The Teacher Changing the Future of FFA: Laura Brecht’s Golden Owl Journey
We’re honored to shine the spotlight on Laura Brecht, the 2025 Iowa FFA Golden Owl Award recipient, and one of the most influential voices in agricultural education today. In this episode, Laura shares her inspiring journey into ag education, the moments that shaped her as an FFA advisor, and the deep passion that drives her commitment to students both inside and outside the classroom.
From building meaningful relationships with students to developing programs that leave a lasting impact, Laura opens up about the real work behind the blue jacket. She talks candidly about the challenges educators face, the evolving role of FFA in today’s world, and why mentorship and leadership development matter now more than ever.
Whether you’re an FFA member, alum, ag educator, parent, or supporter of youth leadership, this conversation is a powerful reminder that FFA is more than competitions and awards — it’s about people, purpose, and preparing the next generation to lead. Laura’s story highlights how one dedicated teacher can change lives, strengthen communities, and shape the future of agriculture.
🎧 Tune in to hear Laura’s insights, advice for aspiring educators, and the lessons she’s learned along the way — all from a true FFA trailblazer who’s leaving a legacy far beyond the classroom.
#FFA #IowaFFA #GoldenOwlAward #AgriculturalEducation #FutureFarmers #StudentLeadership #AgEd #FFACommunity #LeadershipDevelopment #MentorshipMatters #InspiringEducators #YouthLeadership #FarmLife #FFAExcellence Be sure to follow us on social media to stay up to date!
Got thoughts on today’s episode or want to be a guest?
Email us anytime at [email protected]
See you next time for more conversations on FFA, SAE's and the future of
agriculture!
Facebook, Tik Tok, Instagram, X (Twitter), Youtube
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.
...more
30min
January 16, 2026 Ag Research in Action with Esther VanOverbeke
New episode is live! We’re featuring Esther VanOverbeke from the Waverly FFA Chapter, sharing insights into her SAE focused on Agricultural Research. From hands-on learning to real-world impact, Esther breaks down how ag research is shaping the future of agriculture. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!
#EpisodeRelease #FFA #WaverlyFFA #EstherVanOverbeke #SAE #AgResearch #FutureOfAg #FFAStories #AgEducation #StudentLeadership Be sure to follow us on social media to stay up to date!
Got thoughts on today’s episode or want to be a guest?
Email us anytime at [email protected]
See you next time for more conversations on FFA, SAE's and the future of
agriculture!
Facebook, Tik Tok, Instagram, X (Twitter), Youtube
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.
...more
35min
January 09, 2026 Leadership Beyond the Jacket: Emma Poole on Purpose, Redirection & Giving Back
This week on Beyond the Jacket, hosts Lacie Evans and Paige Cruse welcome Emma Poole—Florida FFA alum, former state officer, national award winner, and a leader who continues to invest in the future of agriculture through mentorship and service. Emma’s journey is a powerful example of how leadership doesn’t stop when the blue jacket comes off—it evolves.
In this episode, Emma opens up about redefining success beyond titles and awards, navigating seasons of redirection, and learning how to push forward with purpose even when the path doesn’t look like what you originally planned. She reflects on the lessons FFA instilled in her, how those experiences shaped her leadership style, and why giving back to the next generation is both a responsibility and a privilege.
From personal growth and confidence to resilience, mentorship, and long-term impact, this conversation offers encouragement for current FFA members, alumni, and anyone navigating life after a major chapter closes. Whether you’re passionate about leadership development, women in agriculture, or finding clarity in your next steps, Emma’s story serves as a reminder that the most meaningful leadership often happens beyond the jacket. 🎙️🌱
🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.
#beyondthejacket #EpisodeRelease #FFAAlumni #WomenInAg #AgLeadership #NextGenLeaders #PurposeDriven #AgCommunications #FrontPaigeAg #LeadershipBeyondFFA Be sure to follow us on social media to stay up to date!
Got thoughts on today’s episode or want to be a guest?
Email us anytime at [email protected]
See you next time for more conversations on FFA, SAE's and the future of
agriculture!
Facebook, Tik Tok, Instagram, X (Twitter), Youtube
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.
...more
30min
January 02, 2026 Does His FFA Jacket Still Fit? Corey Hillebo Shares the Stories That Shaped Him
In this special crossover episode of Beyond the Jacket, Paige and Rachel sit down with Corey Hillebo from @Farm4Profit to talk about the role FFA played in shaping his path. From whether his blue jacket still fits to the lessons and memories that stuck with him long after high school, Corey shares how FFA helped build confidence, leadership, and a lifelong connection to agriculture.
It’s a conversation rooted in growth, gratitude, and the power of saying yes to opportunities.
Relevant Hashtags (paragraph):
#BeyondTheJacket #FFA #FFALegacy #BlueJacket #AgPodcasts #Farm4Profit #AgLeadership #FFAAlumni #YouthInAg #AgEducation #MidwestAg #AgStories #LeadershipInAg Be sure to follow us on social media to stay up to date!
Got thoughts on today’s episode or want to be a guest?
Email us anytime at [email protected]
See you next time for more conversations on FFA, SAE's and the future of
agriculture!
Facebook, Tik Tok, Instagram, X (Twitter), Youtube
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.
...more
36min
December 26, 2025 HO HO HO Christmas with the Beyond the Jacket Girlies
Paige, Lacie & Rachel are wrapping up the year Beyond the Jacket style 🎁 Sharing their favorite Christmas traditions and wishing you a Merry Christmas—straight from the podcast mic.
#BeyondTheJacket #AgPod #HolidayEpisode #FFA #AgCommunity #ChristmasTraditions Be sure to follow us on social media to stay up to date!
Got thoughts on today’s episode or want to be a guest?
Email us anytime at [email protected]
See you next time for more conversations on FFA, SAE's and the future of
agriculture!
Facebook, Tik Tok, Instagram, X (Twitter), Youtube
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.
...more
36min
December 19, 2025 From SAE to Career Path
This week, we sit down with Cole Daufeldt from Iowa—National Finalist for the Turf Management SAE. Cole shares how dedication, industry knowledge, and a commitment to growth can turn an SAE into a career path. His journey reflects the future of agricultural innovation and leadership. Tune in to learn from his story.
#FFA #AgricultureEducation #SAE #TurfManagement #YouthInAg #FutureFarmers #AgLeaders #AgricultureInnovation #NationalFinalist #InspiringStories Be sure to follow us on social media to stay up to date!
Got thoughts on today’s episode or want to be a guest?
Email us anytime at [email protected]
See you next time for more conversations on FFA, SAE's and the future of
agriculture!
Facebook, Tik Tok, Instagram, X (Twitter), Youtube
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.
...more
33min
December 12, 2025 Breaking Barriers with Jackson Jarvias: Innovation Meets Agriculture
This week we’re talking innovation and breaking barriers. Jackson Jarvias is rethinking what’s possible by building 3D-printed dirt bikes and proving that the future of ag and engineering belongs to the people willing to create what doesn’t exist yet.
If you’ve ever been told your idea is too different, too big, or too bold—this one’s for you.
#YouthInAg #InnovationInAg #BeyondTheJacket #FrontPaigeAg #3DPrinting #AgPodcast #FutureOfAg #Farm4Profit #AgricultureCommunity Be sure to follow us on social media to stay up to date!
Got thoughts on today’s episode or want to be a guest?
Email us anytime at [email protected]
See you next time for more conversations on FFA, SAE's and the future of
agriculture!
Facebook, Tik Tok, Instagram, X (Twitter), Youtube
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.
...more
31min
December 05, 2025 Growing Against the Odds: Agriculture at the Edge of Alaska
This week we’re heading north—way north—and stepping into a story that proves agriculture can flourish anywhere. Alyssa Sullenberger joins us to share what it really looks like to pursue ag in one of the most challenging environments in the country. From subzero temps to limited resources to carving out community in remote places, Alyssa reminds us that agriculture isn’t defined by your zip code—it’s defined by your grit, your passion, and your willingness to build something that matters.
Her journey is a powerful example that whether you’re learning SAE skills in a small town, advocating for ag in a big city, or working cattle and crops in the middle of Alaska, there’s a place for you in this industry. The future of ag is wide open, and it needs voices, innovators, and leaders from everywhere.
Join us as we dig into her story, the lessons she’s carrying forward, and why “growing something that lasts” looks different—but just as meaningful—no matter where you call home. 🌱
#FFA #WomenInAg #YouthInAg #BeyondTheJacket #FutureOfAg #FrontPaigeAg #AgPodcast #AlaskaAg #LeadersInAg #AgEducation #Farm4Profit #AgricultureCommunity Be sure to follow us on social media to stay up to date!
Got thoughts on today’s episode or want to be a guest?
Email us anytime at [email protected]
See you next time for more conversations on FFA, SAE's and the future of
agriculture!
Facebook, Tik Tok, Instagram, X (Twitter), Youtube
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
for information about our collection and use of personal data for
advertising.
...more
31min

FAQs about Beyond the Jacket:

How many episodes does Beyond the Jacket have?

The podcast currently has 34 episodes available.