Shows
Virginia's Young Farmers PodcastIf You Could Talk To Your Ag Teacher...National FFA Week is celebrated every February to highlight how to organization leads over 1 MILLON FFA members in leadership, community development, and career success through agricultural education.As many of us know, one of the most influential people in your life is a teacher, and for a lot of our ag folks, it is your ag teacher. Join Dustin as he sits down with his ag teacher after all this time to talk about why she teaches ag, memories she loves (and not so much) with Dustin, and what she has to say to those who are...2025-02-1930 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastWhat I Need To Know From My VetWe recovered THE lost episode from spring 2024 where we sit down with two respected Virginia veterinarians, Dr. Amanda Weakley-Scott and Dr. Melinda McCall. Dr. McCall shares fond memories and crazy stories about being a vet from her book, "Driving Home Naked", which sheds light on being a vet, connecting with farmers, and motherhood. She was a speaker at our Women's Conference offering advice and tips from herself and Dr. Temple Grandin on talking to consumers, like "soccer moms", about what we do as farmers. Listen closely as Amanda and Melinda all fill us in on what we n...2025-01-2638 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastWhat it takes to be a Christmas Tree FarmerBack in 1977 The Clouses started a Christmas Tree Farm all because an FFA chapter planted their "seedling program" trees on their land. Leaving livestock behind, they now run a farm with 20,000+ trees welcoming thousands of customers from communities and cities from all over. Hear from Ryan, 2nd generation farmer, on how he works with his 78-year-old father, is a leader in the Christmas Tree Association, and shares the joys and challenges of operating a Christmas Tree farm.Share your thoughts on our social media at vafbyoungfarmers or email us at vayoungfarmerspodcast@gmail.com2024-12-2250 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastMeet Your New Co-HostSeasons are changing and Morgan felt it was time to hang up the podcast. Meet your new podcast co-host from Halifax, Virginia...Dustin Francis! From a career in law enforcement to a farmer and Community Relations Coordinator for an electric cooperative, Dustin shares with us his farm mistakes, joys, and hopes. He also enlightens us on what it is like to work with your family...or not! Let's give a warm welcome to Dustin and a good farewell to Morgan by listening to this transition episode. Side note: you can donate funds or apply for Hurricane Helene d...2024-10-1552 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastFarming & Volunteering: A Family AffairThis episode started off as a nod to June's dairy month - and where we ended was a theme of finding opportunities to serve the agriculture industry. For Thomas French of French Brothers Dairy, all of the above involves family.Thomas shares the evolution of his family's dairy farm, along with the technology and innovation they've integrated to stay viable over the generations. Recently named as the Outstanding Young Cooperator, Thomas also explained the role of a milk cooperative and how milk gets from the tank to your table.Thomas has had opportunities to advocate...2024-07-0741 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastCould Asking the Right Question Be the Secret to Successful Family Business Conversations?Active and engaged listening is a super power when it comes to having difficult conversations - this is what Ashley and Morgan learned while sitting down with Vance Crowe at the Virginia Farm Bureau Young Farmers Winter Expo.Vance's introduction to agriculture was an interesting one: he is the former Director of Millennial Engagement for Monsanto. His primary role was to address complaints and questions about controversial topics like GMO's and pesticides. In this podcast, he shares that often being curious about someone's perspective helped cool down conflict to eventually find common ground. Storytelling is one way...2024-05-1147 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastLand Access: A Young Farmer's Most Precious CommodityMorgan and Ashley were able to catch up with Jacob Gilley at Virginia Farm Bureau Young Farmer's Winter Expo back in February to chat about land acquisition.As a first generation farmer himself, Jacob shares how relationship building is at the core of any opportunity for land access. He shares not only personal examples of how he and his wife have initiated these relationships, but also provides resources through his off-farm job at American Farmland Trust.Share your thoughts on our social media at vafbyoungfarmers or email us at vayoungfarmerspodcast@gmail.com2024-04-1449 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastFarm Taxes & Personal Finance- Doc WhiteArgh-- tax season! Doc White, professor at Virginia Tech, shares what is the most logical during tax season. He also shares some key successes to personal finance that will aid you in building your agribusiness. Listen closely for common mistakes that happen with young farmers and some deeper dives in ag. finance for those who feel they have it down. Share your thoughts on our social media at vafbyoungfarmers or email us at vayoungfarmerspodcast@gmail.com2024-03-0636 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastIt Ain't Easy, But It's Worth It: Family Farm Succession PlanningIt is a question that seems to be the frequent elephant in the room among many farming families: "What does the future of the farm look like and how do I fit into that picture?"While the topic of farm transition sounds overwhelming, complicated, and downright scary, having a succession plan can help farm businesses smoothly transition ownership and/or responsibilities in a way that keeps the agriculture industry - and the families that operate it - viable.Morgan caught up with Dick Wittman, from Wittman Consulting, and Rachel Henley, with Virginia Cooperative Extension, to t...2023-12-0344 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastAdvocating for Rural America Alongside Your Family- Amanda RadkeAmanda Radke has always been an advocate for our industry. She travels across the country speaking to agriculturalists, consults cattle families, writes children’s books, hosts the podcast, Heart of Rural America, and so much more. She went down in history as the brave FFA member who led a walk-out during a Carrie Underwood concert at FFA National Convention in response to false messaging around animal agriculture, all while winning a national public speaking contest. In this podcast, Amanda gives advice on how to advocate while being authentic and holding your family close. You need to listen if...2023-11-1543 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastFamily Helping Families (Part 1): Chris Earl, CK6 ConsultingPicture this: it's mid-morning in Southwest Virginia. The light fog is rising. The October foliage is starting to transition to red and orange. It's sale day at Point Pleasant Angus, and the cattle are calling back and forth to each other as they stand on display.This was the backdrop for this episode and it set the tone for this two-part episode with CK6 Consulting.In this first segment, we get to know Chris Earl. Fueled by his faith and love for family, Chris and his wife, Krista, started CK6 Consulting in 2008 to provide a...2023-10-0843 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastHappy Anniversary to Us!Ashley and Morgan took over the podcast a year ago and, man, what a year it has been!Join Ashley and Morgan as they take a look back on the past 365 days and reminisce on the lessons learned from our podcast guests. They've used that good advice first hand as both ladies have had a lot of change and growth personally and professionally. Ashley became a first-time mom, left her full-time job and can now officially call herself a farmer! Morgan shares her journey of starting over, rebuilding her business plan, and the progress she's made with M...2023-10-0441 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastHow To Make Farming Comebacks- Ty Smoke In ChimneysLeaving the realtor business, Ty took a leap with his wife Shannon to become owners of a 1930s trout hatchery, Smoke In Chimneys, that is home to thousands of fish all operated from natural springs on the mountain in Craig County. Ty went from reading books from Ebay and Jerry showing them how to turn on the water to being sold out of trout months in advance while growing the business in agritourism and value added products.You don't want to miss all these truth bombs that will leave you inspired. Click play and turn your speakers...2023-08-241h 00Virginia's Young Farmers PodcastStarting A Meat Processing Facility From "Scratch"Jordan Wicks was an unlikely person to become an advocate for the meat industry - but today she's pursuing her PhD after a successful career in meat processing.With no farm background, Jordan shares with us how her interest in the FFA meats judging team took her from her small town in Illinois to opening a processing facility from scratch in Alabama. Life and opportunity brought her to Virginia Tech eight years ago where she's made a lasting impact - not just with lab research, but by also mentoring students with no meat industry experience to career...2023-07-241h 03Virginia's Young Farmers PodcastThe VA Dairy Girl Story: Courtney HendersonCourtney Henderson never imagined she'd have a career on her family farm. And yet today - at the top of her long, impressive resume - she's proud to call herself a dairy farmer.To celebrate National Dairy Month, Courtney shares with us her passion for agricultural advocacy and the unconventional ways she's brought consumers to her farm. She shares why, despite challenges, she loves her sector of the ag industry and the modern day miracles milk can provide. We even learned a thing or two about the science of lactose intolerance and the variety of ways consumers...2023-06-2535 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastSpecial Episode: Happy Father's Day!Morgan sits down for a one-on-one conversation with her dad, Jeff Slaven, on this special episode for some fatherly advice for young farmers.Jeff started making land payments when he was 17 years old. Farming, he says, is not just a love, its a responsibility. The pair reminisce on the life lessons he learned as a young farmer during the '80s farming crisis. At that time he was facing record high interest rates, balancing an off the farm job, managing risk versus reward, growing a business while growing a family... sound familiar to all you young farmers...2023-06-1448 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastThe Overlook Produce Story: Joe UlmerIn this episode, Joe Ulmer will tell you that you've got to crawl before you can walk: his early farming lessons were learned painting fence and weed-eating. This first generation farmer got his start in the produce business by selling pumpkins by way of the honor system with a sour cream container in his front yard. Today, Joe and his wife own and operate a bustling produce market, bakery, and deli - a prime agritourism destination in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. This episode will remind you that dreams really do come true - you just gotta work f...2023-06-0140 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastSpecial Episode: Happy Mother's Day!Farm mommin' ain't easy. The good news is you aren't alone! Tune in as Virginia Farm Bureau Young Farmers leaders, Lindy Fimon and Michelle Fox, give host, Ashley Kuhler, some motherly advice as she welcomes her first baby this spring!And to all you moms and mother-figures out there: have a wonderful Mother's Day! Share your thoughts on our social media at vafbyoungfarmers or email us at vayoungfarmerspodcast@gmail.com2023-05-1234 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastMaking Conservation Your Story- Soil & Water Conservation DistrictsMadison Coffey joined us to discuss SWCD programs just in time for Earth Day! She has visited farmers and landowners to learn more about their property needs and has helped them implement cost-share programs, equipment rentals, and how to call and ask for guidance. We also hear from her story about how she is making her path as the youngest sibling of a farm family. Contact Madison directly with your questions about SWCD or visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/soil-and-water/swcdsComments on this episode? Email us at vayoungfarmerspodcast@gmail.com Share your thoughts o...2023-04-1852 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastSharks Don't Swim Backwards: Featuring The Shark FarmerCue the "Jaws" themesong. We interviewed the Shark Farmer!On this episode, we had the change to chat with Rob Sharkey while we were at the Virginia Farm Bureau Young Farmers Winter Expo in Halifax, VA. Rob was the keynote speaker for the event, but before he took the stage, we chatted about what led him to creating a wildly successful multimedia platform where farmers can share their stories.It was an honor to talk with Rob about finding faith in failure, thinking outside the box, and never letting your past hold you back from...2023-03-1233 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastGrow your network, be inspired, and strengthen agriculture in the Young Farmers ProgramFrom high schoolers to 35-year-olds, there are different events, opportunities, and contests to participate in. All you need to qualify for the Young Farmer program is an interest in agriculture and a Farm Bureau membership. Listen to see what you can be involved in next as Morgan and Ashley share their personal experiences with the programs and shed light on the benefits of participating. Share your thoughts on our social media at vafbyoungfarmers or email us at vayoungfarmerspodcast@gmail.com2023-02-1422 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastGrow your network, be inspired, and strengthen agriculture in the Young Farmers ProgramThere is so much to do in the Young Farmers program! Ranging from high schoolers up to 35 year old folks, there are different events, opportunities, and contests to participate in. All you need to qualify for the Young Farmer program is an interest in agriculture and a Farm Bureau membership. Listen to see what you can be involved in next as morgan and Ashley share their personal experiences with the programs and shed light on the benefits of participating. 2023-02-1358 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastBecoming An Agvocate 365, 24/7What is Legislative Day? How can I become an advocate for the agriculture industry? Where can I learn more about ag policy? How can I grow the confidence to ask questions and learn? We sat down with Stefanie Taillon, Farm Bureau Lobbyist, and Matt Fimon, American Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Chair, to answer these questions and bring tips to make you an authentic, mountain-moving advocate! Who knows, maybe you'll find the love of your life while you're at it! Share your thoughts on our social media at vafbyoungfarmers or email us at vayoungfarmerspodcast@gmail.com2023-01-2839 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastHoliday Traditions & "Did you know" Ag FactsWhere is VA ranked nationally in Christmas Tree production? What livestock animal has been domesticated for thousands of years? Where do oysters fall in your holiday traditions? Get insight on holiday ag facts and see what traditions you have in common with Morgan and Ashley; you may even get new ideas on traditions to start!Share your thoughts on our social media at vafbyoungfarmers or email us at vayoungfarmerspodcast@gmail.com2022-12-1618 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastCultivating a Culture of SafetyEach year, more people die while farming than while serving as police officers, firefighters, or other emergency responders. While farm safety is not the most glamorous topic to chat about, its an important one.Joining Ashley and Morgan for this episode is Dana Fisher with Virginia Farm Bureau Federation. He's a wealth of knowledge when it comes to safety resources, tips, and ways agriculture organizations are trying to make a real difference in this area. We hope this episode reminds you to slow down, double check your surroundings, and help encourage a culture of safety i...2022-12-0131 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastMental Health. It's okay to not be okay, AND here is how to help.Have you noticed changes in the behavior of a friend? Do you feel like you have more and more stress in your life daily? Are you experiencing physical pain and unhappiness continuously? Do you have questions about what therapy is or where to get it? No matter where you are or how you are, we have tips on how to reduce stress and a multitude of resources to connect with from Jeremy Dubart, VA Cooperative Extension Agent, and Laura Siegel, AgriStress Health Communications Officer. Get to know them and hear about their personal experiences!Need help or...2022-10-2931 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastPassing the Baton: Meet Your New Hosts!It's been fun getting this podcast up and going, but the time has come for Austin and Kyle to pass the baton or torch, as they say. In this podcast, we meet the two new Virginia Young Farmers Podcast hosts: Ashley Kuhler & Morgan Slaven. Thanks to all who have listened over the last several months. We can't wait to see the exciting new direction this podcast goes. Share your thoughts on our social media at vafbyoungfarmers or email us at vayoungfarmerspodcast@gmail.com2022-09-0136 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastEpisode 8: FFA and Maple SyrupWelcome to this Months episode. Join Austin McNett and Kyle Sturgis as they speak with Lauren Rhodes, a state officer with the Virginia FFA Association. She tells Austin and Kyle about the FFA and her family's Maple Syrup operation. You are not going to want to miss this one. Share your thoughts on our social media at vafbyoungfarmers or email us at vayoungfarmerspodcast@gmail.com2022-02-2434 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastEpisode 7: Shop safety and High School Ag classes Austin and Kyle sit down with Jonathan Grimes who is a High School Ag teacher and owner of a shop safety curriculum program called Safety First. The website is www.getshopsafe.com. Jonathan talks about his company and where he sees the future of high school agriculture going. Join us as we talk to Jonathan about all the exciting things he has going on. I can guarantee you will learn something new. As always please leave us a review and a rating. we can be reached at our email youngfarmerspodcast@gmail.com Share your thoughts on our socia...2022-01-2036 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastEpisode 6: Virginia Farm Link programHave you ever thought about getting into farming but didn't know how to go about it, or are you already farming but looking to pick up more land or expand your farming operation? If you said yes to either of those questions then this episode is for you. While at the 95th Virginia Farm Bureau state convention, we sit down with Stefanie Taillon and Abby Hemby to talk about the Virginia Farm Link program and their launch of the new website. Below is a link to the website. https://virginiafarmlink.org/ Share your thoughts on...2021-12-0311 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastEpisode 5: What's in a name?Join Kyle and Austin as we chat with Morgan Messer. Morgan and her husband Sawyer farm in Augusta County Va. Along with farming Morgan works an off-farm job and is a huge advocate for the Agriculture community check out this month's podcast and listen to Morgan's story. we think you will really like this one. As always feel free to reach out to us via email at youngfarmerspodcast@gmail.com 2021-10-2632 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastEpisode 4: What is a Young Farmer?On this months podcast we are joined by a special guest. Lindy Fimon is the current chair of the Virginia Farm Bureau's Young Farmers Committee. Listen in as Lindy talks about the Young Farmers Committee and program. I guarantee you will learn something new about the Young Farmers committee or the program. We would love to hear from you please reach out to us at youngfarmerspodcast@gmail.com Share your thoughts on our social media at vafbyoungfarmers or email us at vayoungfarmerspodcast@gmail.com2021-09-1542 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastEpisode 3: Grain MarketingJoin Austin and Kyle for this month’s podcast as we sit down and talk to Robert Harper the grain division manager with Virginia Farm Bureau. Robert joins us from his office at the Virginia Farm Bureau’s home office in Richmond Virginia. This is the first-ever guest to appear on the podcast and we couldn’t think of a better one to have. Come along as Robert gives us some insight into marketing our grain. Share your thoughts on our social media at vafbyoungfarmers or email us at vayoungfarmerspodcast@gmail.com2021-08-1444 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastEpisode 2: Navigating obstaclesWeather, money and family these are just some obstacles that affect people in the agriculture industry. In this episode we talk about and discuss these obstacles that face young farmers. Hopefully talking about these obstacles may help you find a way around them if you are dealing with them. We would also love to hear from you as to how you were able to overcome some of your obstacles you have faced on your farm or at your job. Email us your comments at youngfarmerspodcast@gmail.com. We look forward to hearing from you. Share your thoughts on o...2021-07-1529 minVirginia's Young Farmers PodcastEpisode 1: Planting the first seedThis is our first ever Podcast! Come along as we introduce ourselves and tell you what motivated us to start an agriculture related podcast. Rome wasn't built in a day as they say so be patient and enjoy our very first episode. This may be history in the making.Share your thoughts on our social media at vafbyoungfarmers or email us at vayoungfarmerspodcast@gmail.com2021-06-1215 min