Let's Get Rural Podcast

Buzzing into this edition, the newest director of the Kentucky State Beekeepers Association (KSBA) and the President of the Franklin County Farm Bureau, Ray Bowman, dives into the sweet world of honeybees, sharing why these tiny pollinators matter and highlighting some of the buzzworthy initiatives the organization takes to support Kentucky's beekeepers and keep everyone in the loop.

Learn more about the KY Beekeepers Association at: kybees.org/

Lee Maddox, affectionately known as Tennessee Lee, has been with the Tennessee Farm Bureau for years, helping the organization share the story of agriculture. His voice is recognized throughout the Volunteer State and even at the American Farm Bureau Annual Meeting.

Learn more about the work Lee and his team are up to at: https://tnfarmbureau.org/news

Excited to host the California Farm Bureau's 1st Vice President Shaun Crook while recording at the American Farm Bureau Annual Meeting. He discusses key challenges facing farm families in his state and highlights how agriculture is similar across the country.

Let's Get Rural hits the road to Anaheim, California, for the latest podcast episode featuring American Farm Bureau Executive Vice President Joby Young. Young discusses his journey to the Farm Bureau and the meaningful impact State Farm Bureaus make every day.

Learn more about American Farm Bureau at: fb.org

Taylor and Hannah Jones have been named the 2025 KFB Outstanding Young Farm Family winners. After securing the grand prize at the state level, they will represent Kentucky at the national competition during the American Farm Bureau Annual Meeting. Discover their inspiring journey as new farmers and their enthusiasm for this remarkable opportunity.

Learn about the KFB Young Farmer Program at: https://www.kyfb.com/federation/programs/young-farmers/

As the year draws to a close, the legislative season inFrankfort intensifies with the start of a new session. KFB Public Affairs Director Kyle Kelly joins us to discuss key issues from the upcoming legislative session that could impact our farmers and rural communities.

Learn more about KFB’s Public Affairs Initiatives at: https://www.kyfb.com/federation/public-affairs/

Every month, KFB News Editor Tim Thornberry takes readers on a lively journey through his Down the Backroads column. This time, he drops by to share behind-the-scenes stories, laugh-out-loud moments, and a special festive twist—a Christmas edition made just for the Let’s Get Rural podcast!

Read the KFB News Magazine at: https://editions.mydigitalpublication.com/publication/?m=66493&l=1&view=issuelistBrowser

Each year, Kentucky cultivates strong youth leaders throughorganizations such as FFA, 4-H, and FCCLA. This year, two Kentuckians were selected as national officers for the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA). They joined us to discuss this exciting achievement and sharetheir plans for the upcoming year of service.

Learn more about FCCLA at: https://fcclainc.org/

Each year, the Kentucky Farm Bureau honors exceptional young agriculturalists whose dedication and leadership truly transform their communities with the prestigious Excellence in Ag Award. In 2025, this distinguished recognition was awarded to Brandon Gilles of Daviess County—a testament to his unwavering commitment and impact. Brandon joins Let’s Get Rural to inspire listeners with his journey as both a farmer and a professional at Farm Credit of Mid-America, sharing insights that showcase the vital role young leaders play in shaping the future of agriculture. #NewPodcastAlert ‼🚨‼ #Kentucky #BigOnCommitment

The podcast is on the move at the 106th KFB annual meeting!Join us for an inspiring conversation with Nicholas and Bethany Hardesty as they share their passion for agriculture, the excitement of running a bustling farm market, and the festive flurry of growing beautiful poinsettias during theholiday season. Discover how their dedication and traditions can spark your own holiday spirit!

Learn more about the Hardesty family at: https://www.facebook.com/hardestyfarmsandgreenhouses/