Growing Our Future

Welcome to another episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast with host Aaron Alejandro, featuring Joanna Pineda,Founder, CEO and Chief Troublemaker at Matrix Group International, and host of the "Associations Thrive" podcast. Joanna shares her journey from the Philippines to Silicon Valley, her pivotal role in the development of the online bidding system for FCC spectrum licenses, and the founding of Matrix Group in 1999. Key traits in her journey include resilience, risk-taking, and tenacity, with an emphasis on being well-read and curious in spotting trends. 

The concept of becoming "centaurs"—partnering with AI for strength, innovation, and empathy—is explored, highlighting the need for positive human influence in directing technology. Joanna encourages young professionals to be resilient, take calculated risks, and be persistent, while Aaron emphasizes the importance of consistency and paying attention for a thriving future. Stay tuned for more insightful episodes of the Growing Our Future Podcast.

Story Notes:

• Joanna's Journey
• The Pandemic Challenge
• Spotting Trends and Technology
• Lessons from AI and Centaurs
• Partnering with Technology
• Encouragement for Future Generations

Learn More at:

https://mytexasffa.org/

Welcome to another episode of Growing Our Future! Host Aaron Alejandro expresses gratitude for the audience's continuous support and the opportunity to learn from inspiring guests.

This week's special guest is Terren Moore, the dynamic Agency Owner of Moore Farms & Insurance. Aaron expresses excitement about having Terren on the podcast and looks forward to delving into his experiences and insights.

The episode begins with a focus on planting the right seeds for a prosperous future and nurturing them to fruition. Terren recounts his unexpected journey, starting at the age of 15 with the Future Farmers of America (FFA), and reflects on the impact of networking and relationships in his life. 

The conversation delves into Terren's awards and recognitions, emphasizing the importance of a competitive edge and early investment in meaningful connections. Terren shares valuable networking wisdom, highlighting the benefits of remaining coachable and building relationships in high school. The episode concludes with Aaron and Terren underscoring the perpetual need for networking and continuous learning. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the power of relationships in shaping their own paths.

Story Notes:

• Insights into Terren's Journey
• Awards and Recognitions
• Discussion on Competitive Edge
• Networking Wisdom
• Building Relationships in High School
• Subject Matter Expertise and Networking

Learn More at:

https://mytexasffa.org/

In this episode of the Growing Our Future podcast, host Aaron Alejandro welcomes Bruce Cobb, Executive VP at Certified Angus Beef. The episode explores Bruce's journey in agriculture, emphasizing the role of mentors and ethical leadership. 

Bruce shares insights on the positive aspects of competition and the importance of aligning values in leadership. The discussion highlights the virtues of ethical leadership and the opportunities for young professionals in the evolving field of agriculture. Both Aaron and Bruce stress the critical role agriculture plays in addressing global food challenges. The episode leaves listeners inspired and optimistic about the transformative power of ethical leadership in the agricultural industry.

Story Notes:

• Ethical Leadership
• Leadership Traits and Virtues
• Opportunities in Agriculture
• Ethical Leadership and Producing Good Fruit
• Opportunities in Agriculture

Learn More at:

https://mytexasffa.org/

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Growing Our Future podcast hosted by the visionary Aaron Alejandro. This week, we are privileged to have a distinguished guest, Mitchell Dale, Chairman of the Texas FFA Foundation Board of Directors and President of McRee Ford.

The conversation highlights the importance of gratitude, family, and faith in shaping Mitchell's life. Mitchell shares insights into the success and values of McRee Ford, a family-owned dealership in Texas. The episode also delves into Mitchell's involvement with the Texas FFA Foundation and the impactful Ford Leadership Scholars Program, emphasizing the role of community service and leadership development in shaping the future of young individuals.

Story Notes:

• Mitchell Dale's Background
• McRee Ford's Foundation:
• Mitchell's Involvement with FFA
• Partnership with FFA 
• Ford Leadership Scholars Program
• Leadership and Opportunity
• FFA's Role in Personal Growth

Learn More at:

https://mytexasffa.org/

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Growing Our Future podcast. Host Aaron Alejandro brings you another insightful conversation with a special guest who has sown seeds of greatness throughout his life. Today's guest is none other than Congressman Bill Sarpalius, the Grand Duke of Lithuania. Let's dive into his incredible journey and the lessons he shares.

Congressman Hon. Bill Sarpalius' life epitomizes the American Dream. Abandoned by his father, he faced homelessness with his brothers and a struggling mother. Despite early hardships, he found refuge in Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch at 13, where he started in fifth grade unable to read. Graduating high school with $100, he entered politics, addressing alcohol and drug abuse in Texas. Elected to the Texas Senate for eight years and later to the U.S. Congress for six, Sarpalius gained global recognition for supporting Lithuania's independence, earning the "Grand Duke of Lithuania" award. His compelling story makes him a sought-after Keynote Speaker, emphasizing resilience, determination, and triumph over adversity. His involvement in Baltic States' independence contributed to the Soviet Union's downfall.

Story Notes:

• Turning Point
• Political Career and Advocacy
• International Impact
• Grand Duke Title
• FFA Journey and Life Lessons

Learn More at:

https://mytexasffa.org/

In this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, host Aaron Alejandro interviews Lieutenant Colonel Don "Doc" Ballard, a Medal of Honor recipient and Vietnam War hero. Doc shares his upbringing surrounded by military veterans, emphasizing the values of caregiving, community support, and gratitude.

Despite humble beginnings, Doc started his own business at 14, teaching him the importance of hard work and entrepreneurship. Doc joined the Navy to fund his education and found himself in Vietnam as a corpsman, where he displayed unwavering dedication, compassion, and bravery in treating wounded Marines. The episode provides a powerful glimpse into the life of a true American hero, highlighting his resilience, camaraderie, and commitment to saving lives on the battlefield.

This episode offers a glimpse into the life and experiences of Col. Don "Doc" Ballard, a Medal of Honor recipient, and underscores the sacrifices and challenges faced by those who serve in the military during wartime. The discussion highlights the importance of gratitude, the value of positive relationships, and the courage of those who dedicate their lives to their country.

Story Notes:

* Shared Values and Positivity

* Transition to Military Service

* Becoming a Corpsman

* Being Out in the Field

Learn More at:

https://mytexasffa.org/

Aaron welcomes the listeners to another exciting episode of the Growing Our Future podcast. He emphasizes the importance of guests who share their insights and experiences, highlighting the significance of planting the right seeds in agriculture for a prosperous future.

James Huang, President of eXp Commercial, a publicly traded company. James shares his journey, from his childhood in New York City to his role as a commercial real estate leader. He emphasizes the importance of leadership, volunteer work, and building meaningful relationships in his career.

James emphasizes that opportunities are boundless for the younger generation. He encourages students and educators to stay updated with evolving technologies and social media platforms. James highlights the importance of creativity, bravery, and adapting to change in identifying new opportunities. He emphasizes that doors may close, but new, exciting opportunities are always emerging in various fields.

Story Notes:

• Leadership and Building Character
• Navigating Challenges and Learning from Setbacks
• Collaboration between Agriculture and Real Estate
• Opportunities for the Next Generation

Learn More at:

https://mytexasffa.org/

Welcome back to another captivating episode of the Growing Our Future podcast, hosted by the insightful Aaron Alejandro. Today, Aaron sits down with a true luminary in the field of agricultural education, Dr. Gary Moore, a passionate historian and educator whose impact has been felt across generations.

In this episode, Aaron and Dr. Moore delve deep into the roots of agricultural education, exploring the very essence of what makes this field unique. Dr. Moore, a distinguished figure in the agricultural education landscape, sheds light on the core principles that set this discipline apart from others in the educational realm.

Agricultural education, as Dr. Moore explains, stands out due to its emphasis on relevance and application. Unlike traditional education where students might simply turn in assignments, agricultural education takes knowledge a step further by encouraging hands-on learning and practical applications. Dr. Moore vividly describes how agricultural education and its associated programs, such as FFA, teach students not just to memorize facts, but to understand and apply them in real-world scenarios.

Story Notes:

• Planting the Seeds of Greatness
• Gratitude and Passion for Teaching
• Lifelong Learning and Teaching
• Uncovering Hidden Histories
• Lessons from the Past
• The Unique Aspects of Agricultural Education
• Inspiring the Next Generation

Learn More at:

https://mytexasffa.org/

In this episode of the "Growing Our Future" podcast, host Aaron Alejandro welcomes Tucker Brown as their special guest. The podcast aims to explore insights, expertise, and experiences from individuals who are actively shaping the future. As Abraham Lincoln once said, "The philosophy of the school room in one generation will be the philosophy of government in the next," emphasizing the importance of what we sow today for a better tomorrow.

Tucker Brown, the 6th generation of the R.A. Brown Ranch in Throckmorton, Texas, shares his journey and passion for ranching, cattle, and agriculture. He discusses his involvement in FFA and how it shaped his leadership skills. After studying at Lubbock Christian University and TCU Ranch Management, Tucker returned home to the ranch in 2017.

Aaron and Tucker delve into various topics, including Tucker's responsibilities as the "manager of wild animals" and his commitment to understanding all aspects of ranching. Tucker's approach to education and advocacy involves bridging the gap between agriculture and consumers through entertaining and informative content on social media. He emphasizes the importance of being a trusted face for consumers who want to learn more about food production.

story Notes:

• The Importance of Continuous Learning
• Sharing Knowledge and Bridging the Gap
• The Importance of Competition
• Fostering a Competitive Edge
• The Importance of Asking Questions

Learn More at:

https://mytexasffa.org/

In this week's episode of the "Growing Our Future" podcast, host Aaron Alejandro is joined by the esteemed CEO of the National FFA, Scott Stump. Together, they embark on a captivating journey through Scott's life and career, exploring the transformative power of FFA, the importance of saying "yes," and the pivotal role agriculture education plays in shaping the future.

Aaron delves into Scott's unique journey and career path, highlighting his background in agriculture education and biochemical engineering. Scott shares his early experiences in the FFA, including serving as a state officer, which led him to discover his passion for empowering individuals and building systems to nurture their growth.

Story Notes:

• Gratitude and Inspiration
• Scott Stump's Journey
• The Value of FFA
• Empowering Future Leaders
• The Power of "Yes"

Learn More at:

https://mytexasffa.org/