Growing Kentucky's Leaders: A Podcast by the Kentucky FFA Foundation

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

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/

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!

2026-2027 Kentucky FFA State President Garett Zimmerman and State Reporter, Haylee Tucker share insights on leadership & their experience as Kentucky FFA State Officers.

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 Forever Blue Endowment Information Plan Your Gift

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:First Southern National BankSAE Launch GrantsGive, Save, Spend

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:Mayo ClinicMcCreary County FFA

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:Farm Credit Mid AmericaNelson County FFAMarshall County FFABalance Sheet BasicsGrowing Forward ProgramKindle HolderKindle Clicker

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:Kentucky 4-H FoundationFriend of KY Agriculture Plate

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 ProgramKentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural DevelopmentKentucky Farm Bureau Farmland Transition InitiativeLay's CommercialU.S. Department of AgricultureKentucky Agricultural Development Board

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we're sharing the state officer presented at Kentucky FFA State Convention earlier this month. Kentucky FFA State Treasurer Tyren Harris and State Secretary Jacee McKeel take the stage for a creative, Broadway-inspired performance to highlight the incredible, real-life stories of FFA members and chapters from across the state. From student-led agricultural innovations and community service projects to personal resilience and overcoming adversity, Tyren and Jacee showcase how Kentucky's young leaders are stepping into the spotlight with impact, growth and purpose.

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we're honored to share the inspiring retiring address of the 2025–2026 Kentucky FFA State Vice President, Matthew Estes, delivered live at the 2026 Kentucky FFA State Convention. Introduced by his brothers and close friends, Matthew reflects on his transformative journey from a hesitant seventh grader to a dedicated leader.

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we hear from Aiden Manley, the 2025–2026 Kentucky FFA State President. In his retiring address at state convention, Aiden shared a deeply personal journey of overcoming unexpected hardships — from a sudden childhood move to an isolated Eastern Kentucky holler, to family financial crises and a terrifying medical emergency with his sister.

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:Carol Martin Gatton FFA Leadership Training Center

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.

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:Teachers Turn the KeyBetter Days Through Better WaysGrants

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:Coty Back LinkedInMr. Sketch MarkersThe Facilitator's Friend

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:Kentucky Association of Agricultural EducatorsWKU Ag Ed

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:Patrick T. GradyUniversity of Florida College of Agricultural and Life SciencesCarol Martin Gatton Leadership Training Center

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:2023 Kentucky FFA State Star Farmer - Jeffrey Sprowles

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:Coach Dar on InstagramDwight SearsPay It Forward Day

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:Kentucky Association of Agricultural EducatorsFirst Southern National Bank

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:Kentucky FFA State OfficersBarren County FFAILSSOJohn ColliverWashington Leadership Conference

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:Teach Ag KentuckyRooted in the ClassroomAppalachian Future Educators

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:Aiden ManleyAdam HintonHinton MillsKentucky Pork ProducersHallway FeedsTexas RoadhouseLincoln National BankGatton GiftThe Sweet ShoppeAle8Farm CreditKentucky VenuesDavid BeckMaker’s MarkAustin HazelwoodPeterson FarmsKentucky Corn and Small Grains

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:Kentucky Department of AgricultureKristan WrightMatt ChaliffBethany MattinglyAg Ed WeekAg Tag ProgramGatton GiftRaising Hopekyagr.com

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:Lynn Camp FFA

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:Owen County FFAKentucky Farm BureauFarmland Transition InitiativeSelling Farmer Tax CreditKentucky Hunters for the Hungry

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:Kentucky ProudThe Lucky OnesThe Lucky Ones PodcastThe Lucky Ones Instagram

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:Supervised Agriculture ExperienceCoach KiahBrandon ReedBethany MattinglyJeff Hayes

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 AgricultureSeneca High School FFANiki Ellis EpisodeFFA BINGO CardAg Education ResourcesAg Education Week ResourcesKDA Ag Education and Outreach on Facebook

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:⁠Rockcastle County FFA

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:LaRue County FFAKentucky Office of Agricultural PolicyKentucky FFA Leadership Training Center

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:State OfficersCarter G. Woodson AcademyWestern Hills

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:Owen County FFARooted in Ag podcastOhio County FFAMartin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment

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:Christian County FFAPerdue

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:Murray State UniversityPulaski County FFACalloway County FFAKentucky FFA State Officers

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:Rockcastle County FFAWestern Kentucky UniversityEast Carter FFAMorehead State UniversitySAE Grant

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:Muhlenberg County FFANational Wild Turkey FederationBetter Days Through Better Ways GrantKentucky Hunters for the HungryKY FFA WorksJim Strader Outdoors Podcast

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:Oral History InterviewsKentucky FFA FlickrChapter History Project Guidelines

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:John Hardin FFAUniversity of Kentucky Agricultural Education and AdvocacySAE GrantLaunch GrantMenifee County FFAThe Seeds of SuccessBidFTA

On this week's episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we hear from 2025 Kentucky FFA State Star Farmer Colson Pierce.Links:2025 Kentucky FFA State Star FarmerSouthwestern FFARiley PierceThe Millennial Farmer@farmwithzoeTeach Ag KentuckySomerset Community College

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:2025 State Star in Ag PlacementHenry County FFAKentucky Ag Development Fund

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:Fleming County FFAState Star AgribusinessSAESweet Pease BouquetsShark Tank GrantKentucky Welding InstituteWestern Kentucky UniversityAnnie Armstrong Offering

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:Silent GuardDavis HVACPulaski County FFA

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:Calloway County FFAGolden Owl AwardKentucky Agricultural Leadership Program

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:Hopkinsville FFABarren County FFARooted in Ag PodcastKirby Green

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann give us a preview of this year's Blue & Gold Gala and what guests can expect from silent auction items to the well-thought details.Links:Ag Innovation GrantFFA Jacket ScholarshipKyle KellyNick CarterMillionaire’s Row Churchill DownsAshborne FarmsKentucky VenuesBourbon and BeyondLouder Than LifeKentucky DerbyGatormade TrailersMasterChef Brandi AlexanderAustin HazelwoodKentucky FFA YouTube

In a special episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Kentucky FFA state staff members discuss a transformational $11 million gift from the Bill Gatton Foundation — the largest in the history of the FFA organization. Listen as the staff dive into the gift's impact, which includes renaming the beloved FFA camp to the Carol Martin Gatton Kentucky FFA Leadership Training Center.Links:Matt ChaliffKristan WrightJosh MitchamKentucky FFA Leadership Training CenterMuhlenberg County FFAMcLean County FFABill Gatton FoundationGatton College of Business and EconomicsThe Gatton AcademyMartin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and EnvironmentCareer Development Events and Leadership Development EventsWashington Leadership Conference

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we speak to Kentucky FFA alum Bethanie Cantrell, Compensation and Stock Analyst for Texas Roadhouse. Bethanie discusses her journey from being a Kentucky FFA member to her current role at Texas Roadhouse. She highlights the similarities between the two organizations, calling FFA the "foundation of anybody's career."Links:Texas RoadhouseMurray State UniversityBubba’s 33JaggersKent Taylor, Texas Roadhouse FounderFrom now until September 30, 10% of Texas Roadhouse gift card purchases will be donated back to the Kentucky FFA Foundation, but only when you order through the special link. To order and benefit the Kentucky FFA Foundation, visit www.texasroadhouse.com/gift-cards and select “Gift Cards for a Good Cause” featuring the Kentucky FFA Foundation logo.