Way Out West! with the Colorado FFA Foundation

Shoot us a text!Today, we get to sit down with Dr. Ryan Rhoades, who is CSU Extension's Beef Specialist and professor at the university. In this conversation, we hear more about Dr. Rhoades background, personal and professional interests, and his deep wealth of knowledge that is the livestock industry! Executive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!Location Provider: First Farm BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! @wowcoffapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wowcoffapod/

Shoot us a text!In this episode, you will hear from Katie Greenwood, a long-time FFA Advisor and Agricultural Educator, current COFFA Foundation Local Teacher Success Coordinator, and soon-to-be COFFA Foundation's newest Executive Director! We are so happy to have spent this time talking with Katie about her journey through the program herself, and some more personal stories about what Ag Ed means to her! Listen now! Executive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!Location Provider: First Farm BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! @wowcoffapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wowcoffapod/

Shoot us a text!For Daniel Reitz, conservation isn't a buzzword—it’s a daily lifestyle. Whether he’s in the tractor, tending to livestock, or tracking game, Daniel sees the land through three distinct yet connected lenses.Join us as Daniel shares stories from his life as a farmer, rancher, and hunter, and how those roles have shaped his deep commitment to conservation. We discuss the "boots on the ground" reality of managing a working landscape and why hunters and producers are often the most passionate advocates for the environment. Tune in to hear how Daniel balances production with protection to ensure a thriving wild and working world.Executive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!Location Provider: First Farm BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! @wowcoffapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wowcoffapod/

Shoot us a text!There’s a thin line between "cowboy logic" and the data needed to keep a multi-generational ranch profitable in today’s market, and Shane White is helping producers bridge that gap. As the National Sales Manager for CERES Tag, Shane joins the show to discuss how the world’s first direct-to-satellite smart tag is removing the guesswork from herd management. We move past the basics of GPS tracking and dig into the "animal behavior automation" provided by the new GEN6 technology—specifically how measuring individual pasture feed intake and grazing efficiency can help you identify the easy-fleshing cows that actually pay their way. From receiving calving alerts in the middle of a remote pasture to monitoring bull performance without ever leaving the pickup, Shane explains how this infrastructure-free tech is designed to protect your legacy, improve your bottom line, and ensure the next generation has a viable operation to come home to.Shane's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-white-2998b5144CERES TAG Website: https://www.cerestag.comExecutive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!Location Provider: First Farm BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! @wowcoffapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wowcoffapod/

Shoot us a text!The Flyin' H on the inside of every one of Travis Hamblen's handmade cowboy hats stands for Heritage, History, Hope, and Hard Work. That's what this episode brings to you. In this episode of "Way Out West!" with the Colorado FFA Foundation, we’re stepping into the workshop of Travis Hamblen, the master craftsman behind Hamblen Hats. Travis isn't just a sponsor of the foundation; he is a living example of what happens when grit meets entrepreneurship.We dive into the steam and the sweat of the custom hat-making process, but we don't stop at the brim. Travis shares his journey growing up in the heart of the agricultural community, reflecting on the folks and lessons that shaped his worldview long before he ever picked up a hatter’s tool.Executive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!Location Provider: First Farm BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! @wowcoffapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wowcoffapod/

Shoot us a text!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: wowcoffapodExecutive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!Location Provider: First Farm BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! @wowcoffapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wowcoffapod/

Shoot us a text!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 BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! @wowcoffapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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 BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! @wowcoffapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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 BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wowcoffapod/

Shoot us a text!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 BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! @wowcoffapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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 BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! @wowcoffapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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 BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! @wowcoffapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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 BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! @wowcoffapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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 BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! @wowcoffapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/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 BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! @wowcoffapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wowcoffapod/

Shoot us a text!In this episode, we get to hear from 3 of the 10 Colorado FFA State Officers: Kaitlyn Fenton, Thomas Schaal, and Maddux Chapman. Each officer recorded a one-on-one 20-minute segment to make up this episode, allowing us to meet the very people who instill leadership from the ground up in the youth of agriculture. Jump in to hear how FFA plays a role in their lives and how they continue the legacy of leadership in others. Executive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!Location Provider: First Farm BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! @wowcoffapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wowcoffapod/

Shoot us a text!Welcome to the Way Out West! Podcast, we are so happy to have you here! On our first episode, we have Rachel Gabel, a longtime agriculture writer and the assistant editor of The Fence Post Magazine. She writes exclusively about the agriculture industry and primarily about protein production. She lives in northeastern Colorado, where she is a member of one of the 12,400 beef-producing families in Colorado. Executive Sponsor: Schmeeckle Bros.Schmeeckle Bros. Construction are leaders in beef processing as a one-stop design and build!Location Provider: First Farm BankThank you to First Farm Bank of Greeley for providing us with a studio location to record the pod! @wowcoffapod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wowcoffapod/