Explore every episode of the podcast Growing Kentucky's Leaders: A Podcast by the Kentucky FFA Foundation
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Growing Kentucky's Leaders: Colton Hardy - 2026 Kentucky FFA State Star Farmer | 19 Oct 2026 | 00:23:12 | |
In this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann sit down with Mr. Colton Hardy. Colton was selected as the 2026 Kentucky FFA State Star Farmer. Through his work in this Supervised Agricultural Experience (S.A.E) Colton has grown his mum, row-crop, and Dark air-cured tobacco operation into something to be proud of! | |||
| Growing Kentucky's Leaders: Mr. Nick Carter | 12 Oct 2026 | 00:37:08 | |
In this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann sit down with Mr. Nick Carter. Mr. Carter is no stranger to the Kentucky FFA... Carter was an FFA member at Hustonville High School in Lincoln County and served as the State FFA Sentinel in 1964-65. He earned a degree in agriculture from the University of Kentucky before pursuing a successful career in the energy industry. As the past Chairman of the Kentucky FFA Foundation Board of Trusties, Carter has helped grow support for generations of past, present, and future Kentucky FFA members. Join us for another great episode!Helpful Links: Forever Blue Endowment Informationhttps://kyffa.org/forever-blue-endowment-program/ Grant Match informationhttps://kyffa.org/grants/ 100 for 100 Chapter Guidehttps://kyffa.org/centennial-celebration-chapter-guide/ Past Episode with Mr. Nick Carterhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MB3Y68eKnNU | |||
| Growing Kentucky's Leaders: Jose Villanos - 2026 National FFA Star Finalist in Agriscience | 05 Oct 2026 | 00:31:47 | |
In this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann sit down with Jose Villanos. Jose is the 2026 National FFA Star Finalist in Agriscience. From the Larue County FFA chapter, Villanos joined FFA in high school as an accident... an accident that turned into one of the greatest decisions he ever made! Watch to learn more! | |||
| Growing Kentucky's Leaders: Mallie Johnson | 28 Sep 2026 | 00:22:40 | |
In this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann sit down with 2026 Kentucky FFA State Star in Agribusiness Mallie Johnson. Mallie owns and operates Wild West Obsessed and has sold items to customers in all 50 states, Canada, Ireland, Germany, Australia, and Switzerland! Safe to say that Mallie and her leather goods are known around the globe!https://www.wildwestobsessed.com/ | |||
| Growing Kentucky's Leaders: Ben Prevette | 21 Sep 2026 | 00:34:51 | |
During this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann sit down with 2026 Golden Owl award recipient, Mr. Ben Prevette. Prevette is one of 3 Agriculture teachers and FFA advisors at Hopkins County Central High School in Madisonville, KY. During this episode we learn about how the "joys and discomforts of agricultural life" have shaped Mr. Prevette into the agriculture educator that he is today. 2027 Golden Owl award nominations are now open! You can find them at the link below. | |||
| Growing Kentucky's Leaders: The Blue Bridge Boys | 14 Sep 2026 | 00:27:12 | |
In this special episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann sit down with the very talented members of the Blue Bridge Boys. A homegrown bluegrass band from Owensboro, KY these boys were the 2026 Kentucky FFA State talent winners and will be showcasing their talent at the 9th annual KY FFA Blue & Gold Gala!Listen till the very end for a brand new song performed by the Blue Bridge Boys!Learn more about the Blue & Gold Gala:https://kyffa.org/foundation-gala/Learn more about the Blue Bridge Boys:https://thebluebridgeboysofficial.com/ | |||
| Growing Kentucky's Leaders: Cyrus Bivens | 07 Sep 2026 | 00:26:21 | |
This week on Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann sit down with Mr. Cyrus Bivens. Cyrus was selected as the 2026 KY FFA State Star in Ag Placement. At the very same convention, Cyrus was also elected to serve as the 26-27 KY FFA State Sentinel. Listen to hear all his S.A.E and more!Use this link to watch Cyrus's KY FFA State Star Highlight!https://youtu.be/jDVxaJ8diGM?feature=shared | |||
| Ambassador Kelly Craft | 31 Aug 2026 | 00:40:15 | |
In this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth and sit down with former United States Ambassador to the United Nations, Kelly Craft. Craft is a "lifelong Kentuckian", a successful American businesswoman, and former diplomat who has much to say about the future of Kentucky and the future of Kentucky FFA. More on Ambassador Craft at the link below! https://kyffa.org/ambassador-kelly-craft-establishes-forever-blue-fund-to-benefit-glasgow-and-barren-county-ffa-chapters/ | |||
| Caroline Peterson Meehan, Kentucky FFA Foundation Board Member | 24 Aug 2026 | 00:28:30 | |
In this episode of Growing Kentucky’s Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann sit down with Kentucky FFA Foundation Board member, Caroline Peterson Meehan. We get to hear about Caroline’s start in the Nelson County FFA chapter, her career, her love for the future of Kentucky FFA, and so much more! | |||
| Garett Zimmerman & Haylee Tucker - KY FFA State Officers | 17 Aug 2026 | 00:21:54 | |
2026-2027 Kentucky FFA State President Garett Zimmerman and State Reporter, Haylee Tucker share insights on leadership & their experience as Kentucky FFA State Officers. | |||
| 100 for 100 - Forever Blue Endowments & Summer Recap | 10 Aug 2026 | 00:26:14 | |
During this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, hosts Sheldon McKinney and Ruth Ann Fink discuss the brand new "100 for 100" plan leading up to Kentucky FFA's centennial celebration in 2030!Kentucky FFA Website | |||
| Adrienne Correll, The River Foundation and First Southern National Bank | 03 Aug 2026 | 00:21:37 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann are joined by Adrienne Correll, Executive Director of the River Foundation and board member of First Southern National Bank. Adrienne shares her unique journey from commercial lending to leading a foundation that tithes 10% of the bank's pretax earnings to support Christ-centered ministries locally and globally. Links: | |||
| Dr. Scott Wright, Kentucky FFA Alum | 27 Jul 2026 | 00:31:15 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann speak with Dr. Scott Wright, a world-renowned cardiologist at the Mayo Clinic and a former Kentucky FFA State President (1982-83). Dr. Wright shares how his roots in McCreary County and his formative years in the FFA provided the leadership foundation necessary to excel in the global medical field. Links: | |||
| Claire West, Farm Credit Mid-America | 20 Jul 2026 | 00:30:15 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky’s Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann are joined by Claire West, Customer Education Manager at Farm Credit Mid-America. A former high school agriculture teacher and FFA advisor at Nelson County, Claire shares her journey from finding her place in agriculture as a student in Marshall County to pioneering an innovative, agriculture experience for her students. Join the conversation as she discusses the importance of agricultural education and her transition to educating the next generation of leaders in a new capacity. Links: | |||
| Melissa Miller, Kentucky 4-H Foundation | 13 Jul 2026 | 00:26:26 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann welcome Melissa Miller, the Executive Director of the Kentucky 4-H Foundation. Together, they discuss the unique and vital partnership between Kentucky 4-H and Kentucky FFA, two organizations often viewed as competitors but that work in close collaboration to benefit the state's youth. Links: | |||
| Spencer Guinn and Hunter Anne Mattingly, Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development | 06 Jul 2026 | 00:43:51 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky’s Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann are joined by Spencer Guinn and Hunter Anne Mattingly of the Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development for a critical conversation about the future of Kentucky agriculture. The discussion focuses on farmland transition and succession planning, highlighting how families can navigate the transfer of land, leadership and legacy from one generation to the next. Links: Kentucky Agri Legacy Solutions Program Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development Kentucky Farm Bureau Farmland Transition Initiative | |||
| Josh Mitcham, Carol Martin Gatton FFA Leadership Training Center Director | 08 Jun 2026 | 00:26:27 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we hear from Josh Mitcham, Director of the Carol Martin Gatton FFA Leadership Training Center. Josh explains why this historic camp— bursting at the seams with close to 400 students a week — remains the ultimate launchpad for the next generation of agricultural leaders. Links: | |||
| Jacee McKeel and Tyren Harris, Kentucky FFA State Officers | 01 Jun 2026 | 00:18:06 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann welcome back two familiar faces: State FFA Secretary Jacee McKeel and State Treasurer Tyren Harris. With less than three weeks left in their term of service, Jacee and Tyren pull back the curtain on their incredible year and give listeners a behind-the-scenes sneak peek at the upcoming Kentucky State FFA Convention. From the hard work that goes into memorizing hours of scripts to adding "bigger and better" surprises for members, the duo shares what it truly means to be facilitators of an unforgettable member experience. | |||
| Annagrace Sholar and Sara Thakur, Madisonville North Hopkins FFA | 25 May 2026 | 00:32:39 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky’s Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann are joined by Annagrace Sholar and Sara Thakur from Madisonville North Hopkins High School. Tune in to hear about the massive impact of the Kentucky FFA Foundation grants, student-led entrepreneurship and the inspiring journey of cultivating the next generation of community leaders. Links: | |||
| Coty Back, Kentucky FFA State Convention Keynote Speaker | 18 May 2026 | 00:26:15 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann welcome back a familiar face to the Kentucky FFA community, Coty Back. Ahead of his upcoming keynote address at the Kentucky FFA State Convention, Coty shares his insights on what truly separates a good leader from a great one. From the power of daily disciplines to the invaluable nature of "human capital" and mentorship, Cody unpacks how high school students and young professionals alike can intentionally level up their leadership skills. Links: | |||
| Dr. Thomas Kingery, WKU Agriculture Education | 11 May 2026 | 00:28:53 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky’s Leaders, Sheldon, Ruth Ann and Cassidy sit down with Dr. Thomas Kingery to discuss the world of agriculture education. The Kentucky Association of Agriculture Educators (KAAE) recently named Western Kentucky University (WKU) the Outstanding Post-Secondary Agriculture Education Program in the state. Dr. Kingery, who has led the program for 16 years, shares his journey from a first-generation college student to a veteran educator with over 30 years of experience. Links: | |||
| Patrick Grady, FFA Camp Keynote Speaker | 04 May 2026 | 00:22:27 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky’s Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann sit down with Patrick T. Grady, a veteran entertainer, humorist and the keynote speaker at this summer’s Carol Martin Gatton Leadership Training Center. Patrick shares his journey from a Florida 4-H and FFA member to a career as a professional speaker, detailing how his roots in agricultural education shaped his life. Links: University of Florida College of Agricultural and Life Sciences | |||
| Taylor County FFA, Outstanding Ag Ed Program | 27 Apr 2026 | 00:36:38 | |
This episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders features the four agriculture teachers from Taylor County High School and Taylor County Middle School, whose program was recently named the Outstanding Ag Ed Program in Kentucky by the Kentucky Association of Agriculture Educators. Sheldon and Ruth Ann sit down with the team to discuss the unique family culture of their program and the deep bond they share. Links: | |||
| Darleen Santore "Coach Dar" and Dwight Sears on Pay It Forward Day | 20 Apr 2026 | 00:38:07 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann are joined by author and leadership coach Darleen "Coach Dar" Santore and Kentucky FFA Foundation board member Dwight Sears. The discussion centers on the transformative power of the "Pay It Forward" movement and the global ripple effect of simple acts of kindness. Links: Pay It Forward Day | |||
| Dexter Knight, Ag Teachers Change Lives Award Winner | 13 Apr 2026 | 00:31:27 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann sit down with Mr. Dexter Knight, a recipient of the 2026 Agriculture Teachers Change Lives award. Dexter shares his insights on the essential qualities of a great teacher—emphasizing disposition and a love for the community—while discussing the evolving importance of work-life balance for the next generation of educators. Links: | |||
| Matthew Estes, Kentucky FFA State Vice President | 06 Apr 2026 | 00:27:41 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann welcome back a familiar face — Kentucky FFA State Vice President Matthew Estes. Matthew reflects on his final months in the blue jacket as he prepares for the upcoming state convention. Links: Washington Leadership Conference | |||
| Shelby Roberts, Morehead State University | 23 Mar 2026 | 00:33:51 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we're celebrating the Teach Ag program and the vital role of agriculture educators. Shelby Roberts, an Agriculture Education instructor at Morehead State University and Kentucky FFA Foundation board member, and Cassidy Hutchison, Kentucky FFA Foundation Program Manager join Sheldon and Ruth Ann to discuss the importance of agriculture education. Links: | |||
| 2026 Industry Tour Recap | 02 Mar 2026 | 00:42:12 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky’s Leaders, hosts Sheldon McKinney and Ruth Ann Fink are joined by Kentucky FFA State President Aiden Manley to reflect on the annual industry tour. Over four days, Kentucky FFA state officers completed 18 visits with world-class leaders in Kentucky agriculture, gaining eye-opening and humbling insights into both professional success and personal character. Links: | |||
| Jonathan Shell, Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture | 23 Feb 2026 | 00:40:30 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky’s Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann are joined by Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell to discuss the impact of the All In for Ag initiative and the state’s agricultural education programs. Commissioner Shell reflects on the vital partnership between his administration and Kentucky FFA, highlighting the importance of inspiring the next generation of agricultural problem solvers and celebrating the dedicated educators who make these programs possible. Links: | |||
| Matthew Price and Chance Blevins, Lynn Camp FFA | 16 Feb 2026 | 00:24:34 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky’s Leaders, Mr. Matthew Price, agriculture teacher at Lynn Camp High School, and his student, Chance Blevins discuss the profound impact of community support and the Kentucky FFA Foundation on chapters across Kentucky. Mark your calendars for Give FFA Day on February 26th to help provide more students with the resources they need to lead and grow. Links: | |||
| Kyle Kelly, Kentucky Farm Bureau | 26 Jan 2026 | 00:29:04 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann are joined by Kyle Kelly, Director of Public Affairs for the Kentucky Farm Bureau and a longtime Kentucky FFA Foundation board member. As the 2026 legislative session kicks off in Frankfort, Cam provides an essential preview of the agricultural policies that will impact farmers and FFA members across the state. Links: | |||
| Miss Kentucky Ariana Rodriguez | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:22:11 | |
Join hosts Sheldon McKinney and Ruth Ann Fink as they welcome Miss Kentucky Ariana Rodriguez to the podcast. Ariana shares her incredible journey from foster care to the Miss Kentucky stage, highlighting her advocacy work with The Lucky Ones Foundation. Discover how she uses her platform to support youth in foster care and promote Kentucky agriculture. Links: | |||
| Reflecting on Growth: Kentucky FFA's Journey and Future | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:35:32 | |
Join hosts Sheldon McKinney and Ruth Ann Fink as they wrap up an incredible year of growth for the Kentucky FFA Foundation. In this episode, they share inspiring student stories, discuss professional and personal growth and unveil exciting plans for 2026. From impactful student experiences to the foundation's strategic goals, this episode is a heartfelt reflection on the past and a hopeful look towards the future. Tune in to hear how the foundation continues to make a difference in the lives of Kentucky's young leaders. Links: | |||
| Listen Again: Bethany Mattingly, Kentucky Department of Agriculture | 05 Jan 2026 | 00:38:35 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky’s Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann speak with Bethany Mattingly, Division Director of Agriculture Education and Outreach with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. Bethany shares her journey from building a successful urban high school FFA program to her current role leading statewide initiatives. She highlights her dedication to expanding access to agriculture education and fostering future leaders. Bethany emphasizes that great agricultural programs and initiatives are built on vision and the willingness to say "yes" to opportunities that benefit students and the community. Links: Kentucky Department of Agriculture Ag Education Resources Ag Education Week Resources | |||
| Listen Again: Jeff Hayes, Kentucky FFA Program Development Specialist | 29 Dec 2025 | 00:28:32 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Jeff Hayes — former agriculture teacher and current Kentucky FFA Program Development Specialist — shares his journey from inspiring future educators to the importance of hands-on learning and FFA involvement. Links: | |||
| Listen Again: Brandon Reed, Executive Director of the Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy | 22 Dec 2025 | 00:41:11 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we talk with Brandon Reed about his deep roots in Kentucky FFA, from his time as a member and state president to his current role as Executive Director of the Kentucky Office of Agriculture Policy. We discuss how FFA shaped his leadership skills and influenced his decision to pursue a career in public service. Links: | |||
| Sierra Morris and Tyren Harris, 2025 Kentucky FFA State Officers | 15 Dec 2025 | 00:36:31 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we speak with Kentucky FFA State Reporter Sierra Morris and State Treasurer Tyren Harris. Sierra and Tyren each tell us about their respective FFA journeys and stress the importance of authenticity and vulnerability when connecting with members and sponsors across all ages. Links: | |||
| Mikayla Fields and Madison Wright, 2025 Kentucky FFA State Officers | 08 Dec 2025 | 00:36:43 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we speak with Kentucky FFA State Sentinel Madison Wright and Green River State Vice President Mikayla Fields, both students at the University of Kentucky. Madison and Mikayla discuss how FFA influenced their college choices and careers, what surprised them most about state office and what they've learned about being a good teammate. Links: | |||
| Terry Ashby, Kentucky FFA Foundation Board Member | 01 Dec 2025 | 00:32:10 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we hear from Terry Ashby, a retired executive in the poultry industry and a current member of the Kentucky FFA Board of Trustees. Terry shares his story, beginning with his upbringing on a farm in Christian County, Kentucky to his early involvement in FFA and 4-H and his lifelong career with Perdue. Links: | |||
| Jacee McKeel and Clinton Corner, 2025 Kentucky FFA State Officers | 24 Nov 2025 | 00:30:38 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we speak with Kentucky FFA State Secretary Jacee McKeel and Lake Cumberland Region State Vice President Clinton Corner , both freshmen at Murray State University. Jacee and Clinton share their different FFA beginnings, key leadership qualities and their advice for members on engagement and connection. Links: | |||
| Anna Chaliff and Josh Brammell, Kentucky FFA State Officers | 10 Nov 2025 | 00:27:45 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we introduce you to two Kentucky FFA state officers — Anna Chaliff and Josh Brammell. Anna and Josh share their unique connection to FFA. Both officers reflect on their transformative experiences and discuss the importance of servant leadership and leading by example. Links: | |||
| Scott Cronin, Muhlenberg County FFA | 03 Nov 2025 | 00:55:16 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we're joined by Scott Cronin, an agriculture teacher and a National Wild Turkey Federation Educator of the Year. Scott shares how he connects his passion for hunting, conservation and the natural world with his agriculture classroom and Kentucky FFA students. Scott tells us how he's using deer harvest as a community service project to donate ground venison to Kentucky food banks through the Kentucky Hunters for the Hungry program. Links: National Wild Turkey Federation Better Days Through Better Ways Grant Kentucky Hunters for the Hungry | |||
| Recording the Past: Kentucky FFA Executive Secretary Matt Chaliff on the Road to 100 Years | 27 Oct 2025 | 00:39:21 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we welcome back Kentucky FFA Executive Secretary Matt Chaliff to discuss the upcoming Kentucky FFA Centennial. The 100-year anniversary will be celebrated from the 2029 convention through 2030. Matt shares his experience compiling the state's history, including the complex story of the NFA merger. Kentucky FFA is challenging local FFA chapters to actively preserve and catalog their own history. Learn how chapters can get started by conducting oral history interviews , digitizing old scrapbooks and photos and engaging their communities with ideas like the "Oldest Jacket Contest" to capture valuable stories for the next 100 years. Links: | |||
| Dawson Hall and Aiden Manley, 2025 Kentucky FFA State Officers | 20 Oct 2025 | 00:36:06 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we hear from 2025 Kentucky FFA State President Aiden Manley and Lincoln Trail State Vice President Dawson Hall. Aiden and Dawson share what they love about FFA, their college experience thus far and advice for younger FFA members. Links: | |||
| Colson Pierce, 2025 Kentucky FFA State Star Farmer | 13 Oct 2025 | 00:30:25 | |
On this week's episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we hear from 2025 Kentucky FFA State Star Farmer Colson Pierce. Links: | |||
| Wade Moore, 2025 Kentucky FFA State Star in Agricultural Placement | 06 Oct 2025 | 00:28:23 | |
On this week's episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we hear from 2025 Kentucky FFA State Star in Agricultural Placement Wade Moore. Through his SAE at Henry County Animal Clinic, Wade has gained real-world experience in animal care, from assisting in surgeries to helping on farm calls. Links: | |||
| Laney Pease, 2025 State Star in Agribusiness | 29 Sep 2025 | 00:33:54 | |
On this week's episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we hear from 2025 Kentucky FFA State Star in Agribusiness Laney Pease. Laney is the owner of Sweet Pease Bouquets — a floral business she began as part of her Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) Grant. Links: | |||
| Dwight Sears, Kentucky FFA Foundation Board Member | 22 Sep 2025 | 00:44:17 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann speak with Dwight Sears, a new board member for the Kentucky FFA Foundation. Dwight shares his deep-rooted connection to FFA, the stories of his family businesses and valuable advice for young people entering the workforce. Links: | |||
| Jacob Falwell, Golden Owl Award Winner | 15 Sep 2025 | 00:25:23 | |
On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we hear from 2024-2025 Golden Owl Award winner Jacob Falwell. With more than 20 years of experience, Mr. Falwell has built a respected ag program rooted in classroom instruction, community connection and his teaching philosophy: WIN – Wisdom, Influence, Notable. His impact stretches far beyond the classroom, helping students find their place and purpose in agriculture. Links: | |||
| Matthew Estes and Mollie Goode, 2025 Kentucky FFA State Officers | 08 Sep 2025 | 00:35:05 | |
On this week's episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we're excited to introduce you to Matthew Estes, 2025 Kentucky FFA State Vice President, and Mollie Goode, 2025 Kentucky FFA Pennyrile State Vice President. Links: | |||