In this special one-year anniversary episode of Living in the Jacket, Carlene is joined by Liberty High School FFA Secretary Kinley Clary. They reflect on the 100th Virginia FFA State Convention, sharing memorable moments from competitions, the campus dance, dining hall favorites, and a few funny mishaps along the way.

Kinley discusses her passion for hippology and her upcoming horse show at the Virginia State Fair. Carlene also shares exciting news about her new roles as a reporter for FFA in the USA and an intern with My FFA Experience.

The episode wraps up with shoutouts to members heading to the National FFA Convention and appreciation for everyone who has supported Living in the Jacket throughout its first year.

In this episode of Living in the Jacket, host Carlene sits down with Liberty High School FFA alumnus Kevin, class of 2021. Kevin shares how FFA shaped his confidence, leadership, and work ethic, ultimately influencing his decision to study environmental horticulture and ag business at Virginia Tech. He discusses founding Verdant Valley Landscaping and how FFA principles drive his business today. Kevin encourages current students to embrace failure, think big, and stay involved. Carlene also announces the passing of alumnus Beau Carson, the upcoming Bedford County Fair, and the podcast's upcoming one-year anniversary.

In this episode of Living in the Jacket, host Carlene welcomes Sophie, a recent FFA graduate from South Mississippi. Sophie shares her inspiring journey from losing her family's cattle operation to rediscovering her passion for agriculture through FFA. She discusses growing her chapter from seven to over 70 members, overcoming social anxiety through public speaking, and launching her own podcast, Sow and Serve, to amplify FFA members' stories. Sophie plans to study agriculture education at Mississippi State University, aspiring to become an ag teacher and continue advocating for the industry through communications.

In this episode of Living the Jacket, host Carlene welcomes Liam, Alaska FFA State President, to share his inspiring FFA journey. Liam discusses how he joined FFA in 2023 after hearing an announcement at school, helping revive a dormant chapter with little guidance. Despite having no agricultural background, he rose to State President within three years. Both Liam and Carlene emphasize the importance of taking leaps of faith, embracing uniqueness, and making meaningful connections. Liam leaves listeners with a powerful message: "Have tired feet," encouraging members to show up, work hard, and leave a lasting legacy.

In this episode of Living in the Jacket, Ainsley former Hanover FFA chapter president from Ashton, Virginia opens up about her personal FFA journey and how the organization became a source of support after the loss of her father, a former FFA state officer. She talks about competing in Creed speaking, horse judging, vet science, and extemporaneous speaking, while encouraging new members to embrace vulnerability and stay true to themselves. Ainsley also discusses her future goals, including running for Virginia FFA state office and attending Oklahoma State University. The episode wraps up with updates on upcoming FFA events, including Virginia’s 100th State FFA Convention.

In this episode of Living in the Jacket, host Carlene Gilliam interviews Brian and Jennifer Johnson, President and Treasurer of the Liberty FFA Alumni Association. They discuss their personal journeys with FFA, the impact on their son and community, and the alumni’s vital fundraising and support efforts. The conversation covers upcoming events, including a pancake breakfast fundraiser and leadership conferences, and highlights the positive influence of FFA on youth development and local agriculture. The episode closes with ways to get involved and a look ahead to the Liberty FFA banquet.

In this episode of Living in the Jacket, host Carleen sits down with Liberty Middle School FFA President Braxton, Vice President Jaden, and their advisor, Miss Crofton. They talk about their enthusiasm for agriculture, favorite FFA experiences such as livestock showing, and upcoming competitions. The guests explain how FFA has helped them build leadership skills and grow personally. Miss Crofton also shares insights on developing the program and encouraging student success. The episode concludes with tips for students interested in joining, some lighthearted questions, and updates on FFA Week, future events, and opportunities to participate.

In this episode of "Living in the Jacket," host Carleen interviews Liberty High School freshmen Ava, Braxton, and Wyatt about their experiences in the FFA program. The students discuss their leadership roles, interests in agricultural mechanics and public speaking, and the transition from middle to high school FFA. They share advice for new members, reflect on the value of FFA in building friendships and skills, and highlight upcoming events like the 100th FFA convention and fundraisers. The episode showcases their enthusiasm and the supportive, inclusive environment of Liberty’s FFA chapter.

In this episode of Living in the Jacket, host Carlene Gilliam and Liberty FFA members McKenzie Curtis and Clay Johnson recap a year of FFA activities, from state and national conventions to local fairs, competitions, and community service projects. They share personal highlights, discuss leadership growth, and reflect on the camaraderie and opportunities within the chapter. The episode also promotes upcoming events like the Santa Paws pet food drive and holiday dinner, celebrating the chapter’s achievements and inviting listeners to stay involved in the vibrant Liberty FFA community.

In this episode of Living in the Jacket, host Carlene Gilliam talks with Gary Arrington from Hunters for the Hungry and Liberty FFA Secretary McKenzie Curtis about the upcoming Deer Drive at the Bedford Co-op on November 22nd. They discuss the program’s origins, its mission to provide venison to local food banks, and the community’s growing involvement. The episode highlights the impact of the Deer Drive, FFA’s role, and ways listeners can participate or seek help. Listeners are encouraged to donate deer, attend the event, and support efforts to fight food insecurity in Bedford County.