Shows
Growing Our FutureGreat History to Greater OpportunitiesOn this episode of Growing Our Future, host Aaron Alejandro welcomes Lorie Vincent, Founder & President of ACCELERATION by Design LLC. Lorie shares her inspiring journey from the Texas Panhandle to national leadership, her mission to empower rural communities, and why gratitude, collaboration, and bold vision are essential to growth. 🎥 In the video, Lorie shares her journey from growing up in the Texas Panhandle to leading efforts that empower rural communities nationwide.💡 What you’ll learn:Why gratitude is the foundation for building strong communitiesHow listening and collaboration spark real changeWhy honoring...
2025-09-1942 minGrowing Our FutureDon't Be Scared to TryAaron Alejandro sits down with Kat Villarreal, an agricultural science teacher and FFA advisor in South Texas, to trace her journey from a non-farm kid to building a thriving IDEA Public Schools FFA program (now ~350 members). Kat shares how mentorship, grit, and student leadership took her chapter from zero to state-level achievements.What You’ll Learn• Three leadership skills Kat drills into students: confidence, responsibility, vulnerability• How to build a program from scratch in an urban, non-traditional ag setting• Why mentorship and access (college visits, contests, public speaking) unlock opportunity• Practical ways FFA shapes...
2025-09-0450 minGrowing Our FutureGrow Good🎙️ On this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, host Arron Alejandro sits down with Melissa Rosenbusch-Spicer, a lifelong educator and champion of agricultural science. 🌱👩🏫 Melissa shares her journey from growing up in a family of ag teachers to shaping lives as a 29-year ag educator, and now carrying her passion into her work with Bloom for Good.✨ What you’ll learn:Why faith, family, and purpose are the foundation of lasting leadership.How agricultural education builds life skills that go far beyond the classroom.The leader...
2025-08-2136 minGrowing Our FutureAgriculture ... Chase the DreamIn this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, host Aaron Alejandro sits down with Kade and Morgan Hodges, owners of Hodges Livestock, to share their inspiring journey from meeting in college to running a thriving family ranch.You’ll hear how they:✅ Turned major setbacks—like losing half their leased land—into breakthrough opportunities✅ Pivoted into innovative solar grazing with 1,300 sheep✅ Built their business on faith, resilience, and creativity✅ Lead with purpose as stewards of God’s creation💡 What you’ll learn: Practical leadership tips, how to adapt in challenging markets, and why rela...
2025-08-1434 minGrowing Our FutureValues Drive BehaviorDr. Justin Terry, Superintendent of Forney ISD, shares how mentorship and innovative educational approaches are transforming students' futures through entrepreneurial mindsets and real-world experiences.• Mentorship as a foundation for leadership development - having both internal and external mentors provides guidance and diverse perspectives• The Opportunity Central (OC) - a 350,000 sq. ft. facility that's student-run, multifunctional, and serves as both educational space and community event center• Creating a culture of innovation through consistent messaging and values like "people first" and "inspiring innovation"• Helping students develop their competitive edge by identifying their strengths and cultivating an entrepre...
2025-05-1541 minGrowing Our FutureWe Just Need a ChanceWinston Chandler's 27 years as a dorm parent at Cal Farley's Boys Ranch transformed countless lives through his wisdom, faith, and commitment to helping troubled youth find their path. His simple yet profound wisdom—"you're never going to learn anything unless something depends on you"—became the foundation for developing responsibility, work ethic, and character in the boys under his care.• Boys Ranch provided structure, responsibility, and purpose for troubled youth• Winston's philosophy centered on hard work, faith, and caring for something beyond yourself• Accountability in agriculture teaches valuable life lessons—"if we don't do our job, somethi...
2025-05-0148 minGrowing Our FutureThere Is No One Like YouIn this episode of the Growing Our Future podcast, host Aaron Alejandro sits down with Dr. Coach Nate Hearne, an esteemed coach, educator, and mentor. They discuss the power of mentorship, leadership, perseverance, and faith in shaping young lives. From his humble beginnings to coaching state championship teams, Coach Hearn shares powerful lessons on building a culture of excellence and standing firm in leadership.Story Notes:Grateful for students and their potential to shape the future.Inspired by the educators who mentored him in his youth.The power of testimony: "We...
2025-03-1446 minGrowing Our FutureIt's Life Changing to Change LivesIn this episode of Growing Our Future, host Aaron Alejandro sits down with Chip Baker, a dynamic speaker, educator, author, and host of The Success Chronicles. Together, they dive into the power of passion, personal growth, and leadership. Chip shares his inspiring journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming a nationally recognized figure in education and motivation. His story is filled with lessons on perseverance, faith, and the importance of a strong foundation.Chip’s message is clear—success leaves clues. By learning from others, taking ownership of your actions, and maintaining a strong work ethic, anyone can...
2025-03-031h 01Growing Our FutureIgnite the Future ... With HeartIn this episode, James McLamb joins host Aaron Alejandro to discuss the impact of encouragement—both as a simple word and as a transformative action. James shares his journey from agriculture education to youth leadership development, emphasizing the power of mentorship, servant leadership, and personal growth.From his early experiences in the FFA to founding Generation Youth, James highlights the role of mentorship, life skills, and leadership development in shaping young minds. Whether in the classroom, in mission work, or coaching the next generation of leaders, he believes in empowering others to unlock their full potential....
2025-02-1445 minGrowing Our FutureDo Amazing Work. Work with Amazing People.On this episode of the Growing Our Future podcast, we speak with Steve Durman, an expert in marketing, storytelling, and technology. Steve shares his journey in helping companies share their stories and marketing. Through his journey he shares the importance of taking risk and having faith when determining next steps in life. Steve was a key developer in the creation of the MYTEXASFFA website and promotional videos associated with the project. It was a great interview to hear how he became familiar with the Texas FFA and is now proud to help us tell our incredible story in an inc...
2025-01-3145 minGrowing Our FutureA Single Word or a Big Action ... EncouragementIn this episode of the Growing Our Future podcast, host Aaron Alejandro speaks with 13-year-old Baxter Whitworth, a young entrepreneur passionate about agriculture and Brahmin cattle. They discuss the importance of trust, teamwork, and core values in leadership, as well as the role of agriculture in feeding a growing population. Baxter shares his insights on encouragement, the significance of working together, and the need for continuous learning in leadership. The conversation emphasizes the importance of youth in agriculture and the potential for future leaders to inspire change.Story Notes:Meet...
2025-01-1736 minGrowing Our FutureTemporary Defeat Does Not Mean a Permanent Failure ... Be About It!In this episode of the Growing Our Future podcast, host Aaron Alejandro engages in a heartfelt conversation with Trenell Walker, who shares his inspiring journey from aspiring NFL player to motivational speaker and life coach after a life-altering spinal cord injury. The discussion emphasizes the importance of gratitude, resilience, and the power of the mind. Trenell introduces his 'Trenell Effect,' a framework for personal growth that includes taking action, being resilient, encouraging others, and never quitting. The conversation also touches on the significance of leadership and making impactful decisions in life. Listeners are encouraged to seize opportunities and...
2024-12-3041 minGrowing Our FutureUtilize All Your Senses ... Things Can Be BetterIn this episode of the Growing Our Future podcast, host Aaron Alejandro engages with Dr. Curtis Paulson, a pioneer in agricultural communication. They discuss the importance of gratitude, the influence of early life experiences, and the significance of taking risks in education and agriculture. Dr. Paulson shares his journey from a farm boy in Minnesota to a leader in ag communication, emphasizing the value of work ethic, innovation, and the role of technology in shaping the future of agriculture. The conversation highlights the impact of land-grant universities and the collaborative efforts that have led to the growth of agricultural...
2024-12-061h 00
Have You Heard This? with Aaron HertzogMy Parents Got Away With It with Alejandro MoralesThis week Aaron is joined by the very funny Philadelphia-based comedian Alejandro Morales to talk about his family and how his parents fled Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet to come to the United States. They discuss Alejandro’s recent efforts to talk more about his heritage and upbringing on stage, what he wants to convey to audiences, and how he can have the most fun while doing it.
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2024-11-291h 11Growing Our FutureI Wanted to be a CowboyIn this episode of the Growing Our Future podcast, host Aaron Alejandro engages with legendary rodeo announcer Bob Tallman, exploring themes of gratitude, agricultural heritage, and the importance of education in agriculture. They discuss the role of organizations like 4-H and FFA in shaping young people's futures, the challenges facing the agricultural industry, and the need for conservation and resource management. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding where our food comes from and the opportunities available in agricultural careers.Story Notes:The Importance of Gratitude in AgriculturePersonal Stories and...
2024-11-2250 minGrowing Our FutureYou Have to "Want To"In this episode of the Growing Our Future podcast, host Aaron Alejandro speaks with Dan Taylor, a prominent figure in Texas agricultural education and the FFA. They discuss the importance of gratitude, mentorship, and the journey of Dan's life in agriculture, including his experiences as a teacher, businessman, and philanthropist. The conversation also highlights the significance of the Discovery Center in Lubbock, Texas, and the legacy of the Texas FFA Foundation.Story Notes:Gratitude and Its Impact on LifeDan Taylor's Journey in AgricultureThe Influence of Mentorship in Agriculture EducationUnderstanding Cotton...
2024-11-0843 minGrowing Our FuturePassion is a Competitive EdgeOn this episode of the Growing Our Future podcast, we meet Jennifer Green, the Public Relations and Events Manager at Cavender's. We discuss Jennifer's journey from her early days shopping at Cavender's to her current role, emphasizing the importance of relationships, research in job interviews, and finding a competitive edge. Jennifer shares valuable insights on leadership skills, the impact of FFA on personal development, and the significance of resilience and adaptability in careers. The conversation concludes with fun questions about concerts and personal reflections.Story Notes:Jennifer Green's Journey to Cavender'sImportance of Research...
2024-10-2438 minGrowing Our FutureSmart. Humble. Hungry.On this episode of the Growing Our Future podcast, we meet Colton Kyle, president of American Sniper, discussing themes of growth, leadership, and the importance of discernment. Colton shares his journey, emphasizing the significance of gratitude, vulnerability, and effective communication in leadership. The conversation highlights the value of asking questions and seeking truth in an age of misinformation, while also reflecting on the lessons learned from agriculture and personal experiences. In this conversation, Aaron and Colton discuss the importance of connections, competitive edges, and living one's faith in business. They explore how personal relationships can enhance professional opportunities and...
2024-10-1148 minGrowing Our FutureHave GritIn this episode of the Growing Our Future podcast, host Aaron Alejandro engages with Dr. Sarah Sprayberry, an advocate for agriculture and social media influencer. They discuss the importance of family support, the journey of Sarah in agriculture, and how she uses social media to promote agricultural literacy and advocacy. The conversation emphasizes the need for a positive online presence, resilience in leadership, and the significance of sharing the true stories of agriculture to combat misconceptions.Story Notes:The Importance of Family SupportSarah Sprayberry's Journey in AgricultureAdvocacy Through Social MediaBuilding...
2024-09-2737 minGrowing Our Future"Grit and Humility"In this insightful episode of Growing Our Future, host Aaron Alejandro sits down with Zoee Nolen, a 2022-2023 Texas FFA officer and junior at Texas A&M University. Zoee shares her remarkable journey, from growing up on a traditional West Texas farm to discovering a passion for agriculture through FFA after two major injuries derailed her sports career. Now a double major in Agricultural Communications & Journalism and Agricultural Economics, Zoee reflects on how her family's work in agriculture ignited her deep appreciation for the industry.Zoee also discusses her involvement at Texas A&M...
2024-09-1343 minGrowing Our FutureChance Favors Those in MotionIn this episode of the Growing Our Future podcast, host Aaron Alejandro interviews Jackie Hoegger, owner of Hoegger Communications. They discuss the importance of storytelling and empathy in leadership, as well as the value of mentorship and continuous learning. Jackie shares her journey of starting her own company and emphasizes the power of telling personal stories. She also highlights the significance of living your brand and leaving a legacy.Story Notes:Discovering the Power of StorytellingThe Importance of Failure and LearningLiving Your Brand and Leaving a LegacyThe Value of Empathy...
2024-08-3044 minGrowing Our FutureAlways ForwardIn this episode of the Growing Our Future podcast, host Aaron Alejandro interviews Ron Kitchens, the CEO of the Wichita Falls Chamber of Commerce. They discuss the importance of gratitude, the power of a job in changing lives, and the role of agriculture and FFA in creating opportunities. Ron shares his personal journey from poverty to becoming a leader in economic development, emphasizing the value of showing up, lifelong learning, and leaving a positive impact on others. They also address the workforce challenges faced by businesses and the need to invest in the younger generation.
2024-08-1652 minGrowing Our FutureYou Can't Be Afraid to Fail Guest: Eddie PriefertIn this episode of Growing Our Future Podcast, Eddie Priefert, the president of Priefert, shares his journey and the success of the Priefert brand. The company started with 300 acres, one product, and a two-car garage, and has now grown to a 3,500-acre ranch and a campus with 35 acres under roof. Priefert is involved in the ranch equipment and rodeo markets, as well as the steel industry, selling converted steel to other manufacturers. They also offer Priefert Complex Designs (PCD), which helps design and build animal agriculture facilities. Eddie emphasizes the importance of attitude, faith, and integrity in achieving success.
2024-07-2646 minGrowing Our FutureFail FasterIn this episode of the Growing Our Future podcast, host Aaron Alejandro interviews Robert Smith, a magician and consultant in the fair industry. They discuss the importance of gratitude, the positive impact of organizations like FFA, and the power of storytelling and advocacy. Robert shares his journey from being a magician to creating unique experiences at fairs and expos. He also talks about starting the Fair Game podcast to document stories from the industry. The conversation highlights the resilience and adaptability required to navigate challenges and find opportunities for growth. The conversation revolves around the impact of the podcast...
2024-07-1247 minGrowing Our FuturePlay on the Team or Own the TeamIn this episode, Dale Alexander shares insights on leadership and the qualities that make a great leader. He emphasizes the importance of growth, empathy, and humility in leadership. Dale also discusses the power of influence and how leaders can positively impact others. He encourages listeners to surround themselves with the right people and to think like an owner in order to achieve success. The episode concludes with a reminder to focus on the long road and to stay committed to personal and professional growth.Story Notes:The Power of Influence...
2024-06-2840 minGrowing Our FutureThe TalkIn this episode of the Growing Our Future podcast, host Aaron Alejandro interviews Dale Alexander, a certified financial planner and author. They discuss the importance of gratitude, passion, and purpose in life. Dale shares his journey of personal growth and how he became passionate about financial planning. They also discuss the power of giving and serving others, and how it can bring fulfillment and success. Dale's book, 'The Talk,' is highlighted as a valuable resource for young adults to make wise financial decisions and create a prosperous future.Dale Alexander has poured inspiration...
2024-06-1446 min