On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we're joined by Colton Rudd and Aiden Manley of Menifee County FFA. Colton and Aiden share their passion for FFA and how they got their start in podcasting.

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Jeff Hayes — former agriculture teacher and current Kentucky FFA Program Development Specialist — shares his journey from inspiring future educators to the importance of hands-on learning and FFA involvement.

Links:

Rockcastle County FFA

On this episode of Growing Kentucky’s Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann are joined by Robin Alexander — Operations Manager at Republic Services — to discuss exciting career opportunities for Kentucky FFA members. Robin shares insights into the company’s partnership with Kentucky FFA Works, the value of hands-on learning and the benefits of starting a career with Republic Services.

Links:

Republic Services

Kentucky FFA Works

On this episode of Growing Kentucky’s Leaders, Kentucky FFA State Officers Noah Mallory and Paige Cash discuss their FFA journeys, leadership experiences and how the organization has shaped their personal and professional growth. From traveling across the state to engaging with members and balancing college life, Noah and Paige share their insights, challenges and favorite moments from their year of service.

Links:

2024-25 State Officers

Rockcastle County FFA

Eastern Kentucky University

Muhlenberg County FFA

Murray State University

Kentucky FFA State Convention

Kentucky Farm Bureau

Little Women

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Whitney Monin — Seed Lead at Kentucky American Seed — shares her journey from FFA member to agronomy expert, highlighting the invaluable skills FFA provides for careers in agriculture. She also discusses Kentucky American Seed's partnership with Kentucky FFA Works, career opportunities for students and the company's commitment to innovation and farmer-first values.

Links:

Kentucky American Seed

Western Kentucky University Agriculture

Western Kentucky University Communication

University of Kentucky Integrated Plant and Soil Sciences

Kentucky FFA Works

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Omega Phi Alpha

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, 2024-25 state officers Ty Elrod and Parker Keyes share their journeys from freshmen navigating challenges during the pandemic to becoming leaders in agriculture and Kentucky FFA. From honing public speaking skills to facilitating workshops, they highlight how FFA has shaped their confidence and leadership.

Links:

2024-25 state officers

Marshall County FFA

Gallatin County FFA

Coty Back

Caroline Groth

Murray State University Agribusiness

Jones Brothers Farms

Kentucky Welding Institute

Washington Leadership Conference

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann welcome back Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell. Jonathan reflects on his first year in office, sharing key highlights like boosting agricultural economic development, championing the "Food is Medicine" initiative and introducing agriculture education into elementary schools. He also dives into the importance of fostering leadership in FFA, building connections for Kentucky agriculture on a national stage and creating a culture of innovation and gratitude within his team.

Links:

Kentucky Department of Agriculture

Garrard County FFA

Food is Medicine

Give FFA Day

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Caroline Groth

Ag Tag program

CASA of Lexington

This week on Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we welcome two inspiring guests from Green County — veteran agriculture teacher James Bonta and 2024 Kentucky FFA State Star in Agribusiness, Carsen Thompson. Listen as they share stories of mentorship, entrepreneurship and community support. Carsen discusses how he turned a family gift into a thriving business, selling refurbished farm equipment parts across the globe, while Mr. Bonta reflects on the impact of FFA projects on students’ lives.

Links:

Green County FFA

2024 State Star in Agribusiness

Supervised Ag Experience Programs (SAE)

AgRevolution

Elizabethtown Community and Technical College

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On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Kyle Kelly — a Kentucky FFA Foundation board member and Director of Public Affairs at Kentucky Farm Bureau — shares his journey from growing up on a family farm to becoming a passionate advocate for agriculture. Kyle discusses the importance of public policy in farming, gives a preview of Kentucky's legislative priorities for 2025 and share tips on how constituents can make their voices heard.

Links:

Kentucky FFA Foundation Board Member

Kentucky Farm Bureau Public Affairs

Ruth Ann wins Kentucky Farm Bureau's 2024 Discussion Meet

Daniel Bustle

Outstanding Farm Bureau Youth

Kentucky General Assembly

Nick Carter

Farm to Frankfort on YouTube

Kentucky Farm Life podcast

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann chat with Sarah Butler, Recruitment Coordinator at Wright Implement. Sarah shares her inspiring journey from education to agriculture and highlights her passion for helping students find fulfilling career paths. They discuss the value of career exploration, the opportunities available at Wright Implement and the transformative Kentucky FFA Works program.

Links:

Wright Implement

Precision Ag

Kentucky FFA Works

2025 Kentucky FFA Works application

Vincennes University John Deere Partnership

kyffa.org

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