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Hello everybody, I felt it was long overdue to explain how this podcast came to be and what the goals are for the podcast going forward. This episode here is just a solo, personal discussion all about the podcast! 

Instagram Handle: wowcoffapod

Executive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.
Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!

Location Provider: First Farm Bank
Thank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod!

@wowcoffapod

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Bridging the gap between the pasture and the stage, Braxton Hamblen offers a unique perspective on the two industries that define the American heartland. As a multi-generational agriculturalist and rising artist in the country music scene, Braxton hosts conversations focused on the realities of the Western way of life. From land conversion and cowboying to the creative process and the music industry, this conversation offers listeners a professional and authentic glimpse into the life behind the scenes of contemporary Western culture.

Executive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.
Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!

Location Provider: First Farm Bank
Thank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod!

@wowcoffapod

Shoot us a text!

Meet Dr. Travis Park, the National FFA Advisor! In this quick conversation, we explore his philosophy that guides the strategy of the National FFA Organization. As Chair of the governing board, Dr. Park is the steward of the FFA mission for over 1 million members.

He shares how his past roles—including serving as a National FFA President and later as a chapter advisor—have shaped his modern approach to leadership, mentorship, and agricultural education policy. Get an insider's view on the principles that drive the organization's success. 

Executive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.
Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!

Location Provider: First Farm Bank
Thank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod!

@wowcoffapod

Shoot us a text!

The FFA Foundation's Meat and Greet is a specialty fundraising and awareness event designed to showcase and support the hard work of youth involved in agriculture. Hosted by the Colorado FFA Foundation, the event features a selection of Coloradan-raised proteins—such as beef, pork, and lamb—prepared in a "foodie" style. Its core purpose is to connect young FFA and 4-H exhibitors, along with the animals they are preparing for major livestock shows like the National Western Stock Show, with a supportive audience. A significant component involves attendees bidding on a "Partner Experience" with an exhibitor and their animal, which fosters a mentorship and relationship through communication leading up to the show day. Ultimately, the event builds valuable relationships, celebrates local food production, and raises funds to invest in the next generation of agricultural leaders. In this episode, we get to hear from a few guests who have attended the event this year! 

Executive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.
Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!

Location Provider: First Farm Bank
Thank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod!

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Step into the world of agricultural advocacy and leadership with Kenton Ochsner, Executive Director of the Colorado Beef Council. After two decades leading the Colorado FFA, Kenton offers an insider's look at the US beef industry, detailing the high demand, tightening cattle supply, and the crucial work of the Beef Checkoff program in promoting quality and consumer trust. He breaks down the economics of beef, discusses new ventures like the CHSAA sports nutrition program, and reflects on the transformative power of ag education and the lasting importance of building relationships. Plus, hear his candid take on agricultural career paths, the challenges of veterinary shortages in rural areas, and the critical need for a strong work ethic across all professions.

Executive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.
Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!

Location Provider: First Farm Bank
Thank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod!

@wowcoffapod

Shoot us a text!

In this episode, we have the opportunity to hear firsthand about the many experiences and insights John Stahley has gained over his years of involvement with the FFA. Although Mr. Stahley may introduce himself as "an old ag teacher," he too was an FFA member at one point in time, even serving as a Past Colorado FFA State Officer. John now works as the current Executive Director of the Colorado FFA Foundation. 

Due to his many experiences with the organization, we get to hear some very deep insight into the world of FFA and agricultural education in this episode!

Executive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.
Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!

Location Provider: First Farm Bank
Thank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod!

@wowcoffapod

Shoot us a text!

In this episode, we're joined by Curt, a true innovator in the livestock industry. With a lifetime of experience as a rancher, Curt has a unique ability to think outside the box and challenge others to do the same. He's made a name for himself by conducting stockmanship clinics and demonstrations across the country, sharing his expertise and helping ranchers improve their operations.

Curt also manages his own small grazing operation in Ryegate, Montana, and continually seeks new learning opportunities to hone his skills. Get ready for a candid conversation as we discuss effective stockmanship, the value of learning, and what new ideas look like in an age-old industry.

Executive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.
Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!

Location Provider: First Farm Bank
Thank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod!

@wowcoffapod

Shoot us a text!

Ryer is the kind of guy who knows how to be serious and professional, but he's also the type of guy who switches up the conversation and tosses out the funniest joke you've ever heard in the blink of an eye. We're pretty sure you'll see that and so much more from him on this episode full of laughs and deep-cutting wisdom, which is why we'll always be rooting for Ryer, Colorado FFA's 2025 National Officer Candidate!

Executive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.
Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!

Location Provider: First Farm Bank
Thank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod!

@wowcoffapod

Shoot us a text!

On this week's episode, we're kicking off our boots and pulling up a chair with a truly unique talent: Liza Jo. She's not your typical rising star, and her story is as compelling as her music. Before she was captivating audiences with her powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, Liza Jo was leading the charge as a past FFA State President. Join us as we dive into how her time in the iconic blue corduroy jacket shaped her discipline, work ethic, and even her passion for the stage!

Check out her website!

https://www.lizajomusic.com/

Executive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.
Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!

Location Provider: First Farm Bank
Thank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod!

@wowcoffapod

Shoot us a text!

For the last of the 3 launch episodes, we have brought on the Colorado State FFA Advisor, Shannon Baylie. Shannon was a State FFA Officer in 2011 before attending Colorado State University and majoring in agriculture education. She started her teaching career in Brush, Colorado, in 2014 and then moved to Windsor High School in 2017, where she has been ever since. While teaching, Shannon also completed a Master’s program in School Counseling. Shannon was hired on as the State Advisor in the Spring of 2024 and is now working with her second state officer team. On this episode, we hear about the transitions from teaching to the advisor role and from her first year struggles to the early successes she is finding in the second year. Tune in to hear all about FFA from the perspective of a State Advisor! 

Executive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.
Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!

Location Provider: First Farm Bank
Thank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod!

@wowcoffapod