Growing Our Future

On this episode of Growing Our Future Podcast, Aaron Alejandro introduces Ray Urrutia, Founder and CEO of Terra Firma Foods, Inc. Terra Firma Foods (TFF) has developed a “back to the future” approach in growing produce, using advanced controlled-environment technologies and methods while maintaining the use of natural, nutrient-rich soil. 

Story Notes:

• “Strategic Use”
• Future of Agriculture and Food
•  Attitude and Gratitude
•  “Spheres of Influence”
• Food Security
•  Youth, Agriculture and Leadership

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

On this episode of Growing Our Future Podcast, Aaron Alejandro introduces Meagan McCoy Jones,  President & COO at  McCoy’s Building Supply.Meagan is a fourth-generation leader of McCoy’s Building Supply, where her roles have included receptionist, advertising intern, inside sales, assistant store manager, director, vice president, senior vice president, and now President and Chief Operating Officer. She believes in the purpose of McCoy’s to make life easier and more fulfilling for those who build and in the purpose of business and business owners to care well for people and communities who are impacted by their work. Meagan is married to Richard Jones, her best friend and partner in life, and they have two children.

Founded in 1927, McCoy’s is a fourth-generation, family-owned supplier of lumber, building supplies and farm and ranch equipment, providing a complete array services to its customer base which includes consumers, builders, contractors, repair/remodelers and farm & ranch folks. The San Marcos, Texas-based retailer is one of the largest family-owned businesses in the building supplies industry and employs 2,000+ people in 87 stores in five states, including Arkansas, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.

Story Notes:

• We have to Prove Our Value
• Passion for Excellence
• Resiliency

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

Host Aaron Alejandro and Taya Kyle discuss Chris Kyle's Legacy and the lasting impact of FFA.

The National FFA Organization works to strengthen science and agricultural educational opportunities for  students across the country.  The Texas FFA Association and Texas FFA Foundation are the largest state organizations in the country.

On this episode of Growing Our Future Podcast, Aaron Alejandro introduces Taya Kyle, author of American Wife: A Memoir of Love, Service, Faith and Renewal and Founder of the Taya and Chris Kyle Foundation, an organization that gives military, law enforcement, and first-responder couples tools to help their relationships thrive. Taya's experience as a military spouse, writer, and entrepreneur gives her a unique perspective on gratitude, healing, and humility, especially when it comes to leadership. 

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

Host Aaron Alejandro and Renae Yanez address students looking for a future in agriculture. The National FFA Organization works to strengthen science and agricultural educational opportunities for  students across the country.  The Texas FFA Association and Texas FFA Foundation are the largest state organizations in the country. On this episode of Growing Our Future Podcast, Aaron Alejandro introduces Renae Yanez, Human Resources Director at Priefert.  Yanez's experience in talent acquisition and retention, employee engagement, employee benefits administration, and worker compensation make her an excellent resource for young people hoping to join the workforce.

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

Host Aaron Alejandro and Molly Christensen discuss FFA's ability to shape lives and open doors for young people. The National FFA Organization works to strengthen science and agricultural educational opportunities for  students across the country.  The Texas FFA Association and Texas FFA Foundation are the largest state organizations in the country.

On his episode of Growing Our Future Podcast, Aaron Alejandro introduces Molly Christensen, Communications & Outreach Coordinator for the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board.  Christensen's experience as an FFA member and Ford Leadership Scholar helped launch her current career.

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

Host Aaron Alejandro and Dr. Mindy Brashears discuss the key role that agriculture plays in national security. The National FFA Organization works to strengthen science and agricultural educational opportunities for  students across the country.  The Texas FFA Association and Texas FFA Foundation are the largest state organizations in the country.


Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

Host Aaron Alejandro and Tom Ziglar discuss the late Zig Ziglar's inspirational legacy and the need for great leaders. The National FFA Organization works to strengthen science and agricultural educational opportunities for  students across the country.  The Texas FFA Association and Texas FFA Foundation are the largest state organizations in the country. On this episode of Growing Our Future Podcast, Aaron Alejandro introduces Tom Ziglar, CEO of the Zig Ziglar Corporation.  Ziglar's extensive experience as a coach, author, and speaker reminds listeners of the importance of humility and hope when it comes to leadership in agriculture and beyond. 

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

On this episode of Growing Our Future Podcast, Aaron Alejandro introduces Dan Hunter, Assistant Commissioner in the state of Texas' Department of Agriculture. Hunter's extensive experience in agriculture, trade, research, water, and policy development, at both the state and national levels, helps listeners understand the fundamental nature of agriculture and the importance of leadership. 

Story Notes:

• High School Learnings that FFA still using
• "Three Letters: FFA"
• The Secret to Successful Leadership
• Growing the Future
• Why Agriculture?
•  Things That we should be Grateful for

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org