Let's Get Rural Podcast

Fall is in full swing across Kentucky, and farm markets arebuzzing with the sights, sounds and flavors of the season. From warm cider to picking the perfect pumpkin, there’s plenty to celebrate. Just Piddlin’ Farm owner Chip Willingham joins Let’s Get Rural to share the story behind his farm market and how the KFB Certified Farm Market program has helpedsupport and grow his operation.

Learn more about their farm at: https://www.justpiddlinfarm.com/

Learn more about the Certified Farm Market program at: https://www.kyfb.com/federation/programs/certified-farm-markets/

Farming can be rewarding, but it can also bring tremendous pressure and uncertainty. Farmer William McIntosh joins Let’s Get Rural for an honest conversation about the mental health struggles he has faced and how those experiences have inspired him to bring greater awareness to farmer mental health. William shares his story in hopes of reminding others in agriculture that they aren’t alone, especially during challenging times on the farm.

Let's Get Rural hits the road to Flemingsburg, Kentucky, for a special episode recorded during the Annual Fleming County Tractor Parade. What started as a parade became a celebration of everything that makes rural communities special: a deep appreciation for agriculture, a strong sense of history, and the people who keep those traditions alive. Hop on board as we take you straight to the heart of tractor country on this special road-trip edition of Let's Get Rural.

Harvest season is one of the most important times of the year for farmers, and it’s also a critical period for grain and commodity markets. On this episode of Let’s Get Rural, Kentucky Farm Bureau Commodity Marketing Specialist Taylor Thompson joins Tim Thornberry for a timely conversation about what farmers are seeing in the fields and what market analysts are watching as combines roll across the countryside.

Learn about all the best information about Kentucky commodities at: https://www.kyfb.com/federation/programs/commodities/

Brooke Pardue with the Parklands Alliance joins the show todiscuss the upcoming Jack’s Lantern Trail event in Iroquois Park. Discover how thousands of Kentucky Proud pumpkins are transformed into incredible works of art, creating a one-of-a-kind fall experience filled with fun, creativity, and family-friendly entertainment for all ages.

Learn more about Jack's Lantern Trail at: https://www.jackolanternlouisville.org/

Join us for a special episode of Let’s Get Rural as we uncover how agricultural education is making a difference in Kentucky classrooms! Discover the impact of "All In for Ag Education Week," a statewide initiative connecting students to the diverse world of agriculture and its exciting career paths. Christi Hack shares inspiring stories and innovative programs from Jessamine County, revealing how educators are helping students appreciate the vital role agriculture plays in their lives.

Learn more at: https://www.kyagr.com/marketing/ag-education-week.html

Join us on Let’s Get Rural as we spotlight Kentucky Farm Bureau’s Generation Bridge Advocate of the Year award. This year’s honoree is Melissa Miller, farmer and Executive Director of the Kentucky 4H Foundation. Discover Melissa’s inspiring story and learn how she’s helping shape the future of agriculture advocacy in Kentucky.

Learn more about the Generation Bridge Program at: https://www.kyfb.com/federation/programs/generation-bridge/

Discover the future of agricultural innovation on this episode of Let's Get Rural! We're joined by Gene Ligman, founder of Kentucky-based Clear Grain Co., one of ten startups competing in the American Farm Bureau’s Ag Innovation Challenge. Gene shares how Clear Grain is revolutionizing grain storage and transportation with cutting-edge technology designed to control pest, even those hidden inside kernels, using a unique vacuum chamber and ozone-carbon dioxide blend. Tune in to learn about the proof-of-concept journey, the fierce competition for $100,000 in startup funding, and the advances reshaping rural America.

Learn more about the AFBF Ag Innovation Challenge at: https://www.fb.org/initiative/ag-innovation-challenge

Join us on "Let’s Get Rural" as we go behind thescenes at the Kentucky State Fair. Corrine Fetter, Executive Director of Expositions for Kentucky Venues, shares how her dedicated team pulls off one of the state’s largest events and highlights why the fair is so vital to Kentucky's agricultural community.

Learn more at: https://kystatefair.org/

Each year, Miss Kentucky not only represents the Commonwealth at the Miss America contest, but also takes on a vital role as an ambassador for agriculture with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. She plays a major part in the Kentucky State Fair, including the iconic Kentucky Country Ham Breakfast and Charity Auction. Join us on “Let’s Get Rural” as Miss Kentucky shares fun stories and insights from Agland during the fair.

Instagram: missamericaky

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissAmericaKY