PODCAST · leisure
Root of the Matter
by Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation
A podcast created by the Tennessee Farm Bureau where co-hosts Lee Maddox, Amy Beckham and Thomas Capps take turns interviewing folks on issues, events and news with the goal of getting to the root of the matter on what is defining our most important industry, agriculture. “Root of the Matter” is inspired by a column written by the late Melissa Burniston Bratton, but has the same goal as she had for her article – sharing the important stories of farmers and those involved in agriculture.
Episodes
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Inside the Midterms: Early Voting, Redistricting & What’s on Tennessee’s Ballot | ROTM
Voting is underway for the midterms, with early voting already started in many states. Early indicators suggest turnout is outpacing 2022 in many places, and with control of Congress up for grabs, what could that mean heading into Election Day? Shelby Vannoy with the Tennessee Farm Bureau’s…
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Giants Among Us: Tennessee’s Oldest and Largest Trees | ROTM
Tennessee is home to some remarkable trees, from towering giants to ancient trees that have stood witness to generations of change. In this episode, we’re joined by arborist Jim Cortese who explains the importance of trees in our state, and why these living treasures deserve our appreciation and...
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ROTM | The Economics Behind the Future of Farming
In this episode of Root of the Matter, we sit down with Dr. Chris Boyer, UTIA Professor and Head of the Agricultural and Resource Economics Department, for a conversation about the economic challenges facing agriculture and the future of farming. We talk about farmland loss and why profitability…
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The Ballot Box & the 3-Year Degree: A Conversation with Tre Hargett | ROTM
Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett joins us for a conversation about the upcoming midterm elections and the importance of Tennesseans making their voices heard at the ballot box. Secretary Hargett discusses his efforts to ensure Tennessee elections are secure, accurate, and timely, while...
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A God Thing: Two Million Meals and Counting | Root of the Matter
For more than a decade, the Shooting Hunger initiative has brought people together around a simple mission: helping feed those in need. Sponsored and organized by the Tennessee Farm Bureau, Farm Credit Mid-America, and Tennessee Farmers Co-op, the initiative has grown into a powerful example of...
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ROTM | El Niño Is Coming: What Does It Mean for Tennessee This Winter?
Can we really predict what kind of winter Tennessee is going to have? In this episode, we sit down with meteorologist Eric Snodgrass with Nutrien Ag Solutions to take a deeper look at the science behind weather forecasting—and what the atmosphere may be telling us about the winter ahead. We also...
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ROTM | More Than a Crown: Championing Agriculture
In this episode, we’re joined by Ashley Polson, Miss Rodeo USA, for a conversation about horses, rodeo, agriculture, and the journey that brought her to the crown. Ashley shares how her love for horses began as a child and eventually led her to the national stage as Miss Rodeo USA. Her role is...
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ROTM | Changing the Conversation: The Farm Babe on Agriculture, Influence & Advocacy
Michelle Miller, better known as The Farm Babe, has taken an unconventional path to becoming one of agriculture’s most recognizable voices online. In this episode, Michelle shares the story behind her journey, how she became an influencer and advocate for agriculture, and what it’s been like...
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ROTM | Record Demand, Record Quality: The State of American Beef
In this episode, we sit down with NCBA CEO Colin Woodall to take a closer look at the current state of the American beef cattle market. Despite historically high prices, consumer demand for beef remains incredibly strong. Colin explains why consumers continue to choose American beef, what that...
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ROTM | George Washington: The Farmer Who Became President
What do we really know about George Washington beyond the general and the first President of the United States? In this episode, we sit down with Douglas Dickerson, a George Washington impressionist, to talk about Washington’s journey from Virginia farmer to general and eventually our nation’s...
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ROTM | No-Till’s Legacy and the Future of Agriculture
In this episode, we sit down with UTIA Senior Vice President and Senior Vice Chancellor Keith Carver for a conversation about the legacy of no-till farming and the future of agriculture. We talk about the Milan No-Till Field Day and why the no-till method has become such an important part of...
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ROTM | Seven Generations Strong: Tennessee Farmer of the Year Willis Jepson
What does it take to carry on a family farming legacy seven generations in the making? Willis Jepson knows firsthand. Recently named the 2026 Tennessee Farmer of the Year, Willis joins us to share the pride, hard work, and perseverance behind his family’s Robertson County farm.
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ROTM | Grass-Fed, Grass-Finished, and Built to Last
What does it take to build a profitable, sustainable beef operation in today’s cattle industry? In this episode, we’re joined by Campbell Baker, the 2026 Tennessee Young Farmers & Ranchers Environmental Stewardship Award winner, to discuss how his family’s Smith County farm has found success...
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ROTM: 2026 TN Young Farmer of The Year Kary Robinson
What does it take to become Tennessee’s Young Farmer of the Year? On this episode, we sit down with Franklin County farmer Kary Robinson, the 2026 Tennessee Young Farmer of the Year, to hear the story behind the honor. From raising row crops and beef cattle to operating a family feed mill, Kary...
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ROTM | Tools for the Farm: How FSA Supports Tennessee Agriculture
In this episode, we sit down with Mike Mayfield, State Executive Director for the Farm Service Agency in Tennessee, to discuss his background in agriculture and his journey to serving farmers across the state. Mike shares insights from his years in the agricultural industry and explains the…
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ROTM | Building Global Markets for Tennessee Forestry
In this episode, we sit down with Tennessee Commissioner of Agriculture Andy Holt to talk about Tennessee’s recent trade mission to India and Thailand and why these trips matter for farmers and businesses back home. We discuss how the state is working to open new international markets for…
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ROTM | Weston Brown on Farming, Leadership & the Future of Rural Tennessee
In this episode, we sit down with former Tennessee State FFA President Weston Brown to discuss his journey through agricultural leadership, his aspirations to work in the political world, and his commitment to carrying on his family’s fifth-generation beef cattle farm in Greene County, Tennessee....
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ROTM | Managing Growth and Protecting Farmland
In this episode, we sit down with Josh Suddath from the University of Tennessee’s Center for Planning to explore one of the biggest challenges facing the state today: how to manage rapid population growth without losing the farmland and rural character that make Tennessee unique. As more people...
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ROTM | Farming Through the Pressure: You’re Not Alone
In agriculture, strength and resilience are often worn like badges of honor—but behind that strength, many farmers carry heavy mental and emotional burdens. In this episode, we sit down with Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation Executive Vice President Bryan Wright to have an honest conversation…
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ROTM | Are High Fertilizer Prices Here to Stay?
In this episode, we take a closer look at one of the biggest challenges facing farmers today: rising input costs. We sit down with Dr. Andrew Mohammad from the University of Tennessee to unpack what’s driving persistently high fertilizer prices and why relief may not come anytime soon. We break...
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ROTM | More Than 50 Years of Fruit & Wisdom with Dr. Dave Lockwood
Dr. Dave Lockwood has spent more than 50-years as a fruit specialist with UT Extension. Dr. Lockwood shares how his passion for horticulture turned into a lifetime of service through UT Extension, working with both commercial growers and homeowners across the state. We dive into the growing...
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ROTM | The Cost Crunch: Why Farming Still Isn’t Adding Up in 2026
In this episode, we sit down with Tennessee Farm Bureau Vice President James Haskew to talk about the reality facing farmers as we head into the 2026 planting season. From rising input costs—seed, fertilizer, fuel, and chemicals—to tightening margins, many farmers are finding that the numbers...
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ROTM | Resurrection Living: Faith Beyond Sunday
Matthew McClanahan is an attorney, associate pastor, and a man deeply rooted in faith and family. In this episode, he shares his journey from growing up around his grandparents’ farm to pursuing law school and stepping into his calling as both a legal professional and part-time pastor. We talk...
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ROTM | Answering the Call: Teacher, Pastor, Public Servant
In this episode, we sit down with Chuckey Doak FFA Chapter advisor Chase Murray to talk about his journey into agricultural education and the impact it’s had on his life and community. Chase shares what led him to become an FFA teacher, why ag education is more important than ever, and how…
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ROTM | Advocating for Agriculture: Why Farmers’ Voices Matter
In this episode, we sit down with Rutherford County Farm Bureau President Trey Smith to talk about why it’s more important than ever for farmers to have a voice in the legislative process. From Tennessee Farm Bureau’s annual legislative visits to the State Capitol to the real impact of building...
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ROTM | Energy, Agriculture, and the Future of Powering Rural Tennessee
The Tennessee Valley Authority has played a major role in powering communities across the region for decades—but today the mission is evolving. As Tennessee’s population grows and new technologies increase energy demand, TVA is working to expand and modernize the grid while continuing to serve...
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ROTM | Fewer Acres, Bigger Questions: The Future of Cotton in the United States
The cotton industry is facing serious headwinds—from shrinking acreage to volatile markets and rising input costs. In this episode, we sit down with Bradley Williams, President of the National Cotton Ginners Association, to talk about the tough realities confronting growers and ginners today. We...
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ROTM: Shane Profitt’s Rural Roots & Radio Rise
In this episode, we sit down with Shane Profitt to talk about the journey from small-town Tennessee to the country music spotlight. Growing up in rural Maury County, Shane shares how life on backroads, blue-collar values, and tight-knit community shaped not only who he is—but the songs he writes....
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ROTM: High Prices, High Stakes in Agriculture
Agriculture is no stranger to cycles, but today’s landscape presents a unique combination of opportunity and pressure. In this episode, we sit down with Nick Patterson of Clay County, president-elect of the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association, to talk about what high prices really mean for…
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ROTM: Beef, Belief, and the Battle for Agriculture
First-generation cattle farmer Russ Uselton joins the show to break down the realities of today’s beef cattle market, the pressures facing modern farmers, and what it takes to build an operation from the ground up. Drawing on both his firsthand experience and his leadership as Region II…
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ROTM: Tennessee Farmers CO-OP CEO Joey Caldwell
Joey Caldwell was recently named CEO of Tennessee Farmers Cooperative. A longtime leader within the organization, Caldwell has spent the majority of his career with TFC. As he steps into his new role, he reflects on his professional journey and shares his vision for the future of the co-op in the...
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ROTM: USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden – Strengthening America’s Ag Economy
U.S. Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Stephen Vaden is laser-focused on helping pull the U.S. farm economy out of the difficult stretch it has faced for several consecutive years. He joins us to discuss USDA’s latest efforts and why he’s optimistic that better days are ahead.
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ROTM: Logan & Bobby Lee Hanks From Talk Dirt To Me
Logan Hanks and Bobby Lee Hanks are two guys from Tipton County with a strong passion for agriculture. Logan is a full-time row-crop farmer, while Bobby Lee is a veterinarian who also raises beef cattle on the side. The two cousins are now also successful podcast hosts of the Talk Dirt To Me...
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ROTM: AFBF President Zippy Duval
As farmers look ahead to 2026, strong agricultural policy is more important than ever. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall sits down to discuss the challenges farmers face this year and how Farm Bureau continues to be a steady, strong voice advancing pro-agriculture policy.
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ROTM: Tariffs, Trade Deals, and the American Farmer
Trade has been a major topic over the past year, and as the U.S. agriculture industry continues to face challenges, trade has become more important than ever. In this episode former, USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Ted McKinney joins the conversation to discuss...
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ROTM: A Miracle — Jeff Pannell’s New Heart
Tennessee Farm Bureau Insurance CEO Jeff Pannell faced the toughest moment of his life earlier this year when he learned he needed a heart transplant. In this episode, Jeff shares the powerful story behind his transplant and the miracle that saved his life. Through faith, prayer, and…
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ROTM: Steadfast in Space – How Faith Sustained Astronaut Butch Wilmore
Tennessee native Butch Wilmore has spent his entire career serving his nation. After beginning his career as a Navy test pilot, Wilmore went on to become a NASA astronaut. His final test mission drew significant attention when issues with the spacecraft left him and his crewmate aboard the...
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ROTM: Elected to Lead – National FFA Southern Region Vice President T. Wayne Williams
Cannon County’s own T. Wayne Williams is a true rock star in the FFA world. After earning numerous awards at the local and state levels and serving as Tennessee FFA State President, T. Wayne has now been elected National Southern Region Vice President. Selected as one of only six National FFA...
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ROTM: TCA Executive V.P. Dale Parker
Dale Parker of Warren County has been named the new Executive Vice President of the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association. Having operated a beef cattle farm for most of his life, Dale understands firsthand both the joys and challenges of the beef industry. He speaks with us about what this new role...
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ROTM: Passing Down the Traditions – Growing the Future of Hunting & Fishing In Tennessee
In this episode, we explore what it really takes to get more people into hunting and fishing—and why it matters for conservation, community, and the future of our wild places. TWRA Director Jason Mexedon joins us to break down the barriers new hunters and anglers face, the programs that are...
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ROTM: Voice of Valor – Honoring Our Nation’s Veterans
In honor of Veterans Day, we sit down with Army veteran Rodney Fugate to reflect on his service, resilience, and life after the uniform. Rodney shares stories from his time in the U.S. Army, the challenges and lessons learned through his military journey, and how those experiences continue to…
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ROTM: Investment In Ag Research
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has a strong tradition of providing top-tier research in the agricultural industry. Recent federal funding awarded to the state has been allocated to enhance resources at various agricultur research centers across Tennessee. Lee Maddox spoke…
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ROTM: Could Argentine Beef Undercut American Cattle
Beef cattle prices are hitting historic highs — but what’s driving the surge, and could a wave of Argentine imports change the game? In this episode, we dig into the global forces shaping today’s cattle markets, from domestic herd numbers to international trade dynamics. Livestock economist, Dr....
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ROTM: Chuck McSpadden With Apple Valley Orchard
Fall is a busy time at Apple Valley Orchard, a family-owned farm nestled in the rolling hills of Cleveland. Owner Chuck McSpadden tells how his father started the orchard from two trees to now hundreds. From crisp apples and fresh cider to homemade fried pies and warm southern hospitality, Apple...
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ROTM: Profitless Harvests – The Financial Crisis Hitting The Farm Economy
The numbers don’t lie — row crop farmers across the United States are losing significant amounts of money. Recent data from a University of Tennessee report projects that row crop farmers in Tennessee alone will lose between $150 and $250 per acre. Statewide, collective losses are expected to…
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ROTM: Lance Pekus Cowboy Ninja
Lance Pekus balances his life between two passions. When he’s not working alongside his family on their Idaho ranch, he’s training for or competing on NBC’s hit show American Ninja Warrior. His impressive performances have earned him the nickname “Cowboy Ninja.” Combining rugged cowboy...
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ROTM: Seconds From Disaster – A Farmer’s Close Call and a Safety Wake-Up Call
In this episode of Root of The Matter, we hear firsthand from Franklin County Farmer, Kary Robinson, who made it through a scary accident on the farm. He opens up about what went wrong, how it could have been prevented, and why safety on the farm should never be an afterthought. It’s a powerful...
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ROTM: Forecasting Weather On The Farm
Weather can make or break a farm season—and farmers are watching the skies more closely than ever. In this episode, we dive into the newly released 2026 Farmers’ Almanac with its editor, who reveals bold predictions for Tennessee’s fall and winter. Plus, atmospheric scientist Eric Snodgrass from...
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ROTM: Dr. Paul Plummer
On this episode of Root of The Matter, we have Dr. Paul Plummer as out guest. Plummer has been Dean of the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine for about a year now. A third‑generation Tennessean and UTCVM alumnus, Dr. Plummer returns home after his time at Iowa State…
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ROTM: Keeping The Lights On In Rural America
Mike Partin serves as the CEO of the Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative and was recently elected president of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Board of Directors. He also farms beef cattle on the side with his father back home. With growing demand on the electric grid from...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
A podcast created by the Tennessee Farm Bureau where co-hosts Lee Maddox, Amy Beckham and Thomas Capps take turns interviewing folks on issues, events and news with the goal of getting to the root of the matter on what is defining our most important industry, agriculture. “Root of the Matter” is inspired by a column written by the late Melissa Burniston Bratton, but has the same goal as she had for her article – sharing the important stories of farmers and those involved in agriculture.
HOSTED BY
Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Root of the Matter have?
Root of the Matter currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Root of the Matter about?
A podcast created by the Tennessee Farm Bureau where co-hosts Lee Maddox, Amy Beckham and Thomas Capps take turns interviewing folks on issues, events and news with the goal of getting to the root of the matter on what is defining our most important industry, agriculture. “Root of the Matter” is...
How often does Root of the Matter release new episodes?
Root of the Matter has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Root of the Matter?
You can listen to Root of the Matter on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Root of the Matter?
Root of the Matter is created and hosted by Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation.
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