Let's Get Rural Podcast

Another Kentucky harvest is nearly in the books. Dustin White of White Farms in Union County sits down with Let’s Get Rural to talk about his family’s roots in agriculture, the work behind their farming operation, and how this year’s crop is shaping up as harvest comes to a close.

Find the latest KFB market reports at: https://www.kyfb.com/federation/programs/commodities/market-reports/

Fall is in full swing across Kentucky, and farm markets arebuzzing with the sights, sounds and flavors of the season. From warm cider to picking the perfect pumpkin, there’s plenty to celebrate. Just Piddlin’ Farm owner Chip Willingham joins Let’s Get Rural to share the story behind his farm market and how the KFB Certified Farm Market program has helpedsupport and grow his operation.

Learn more about their farm at: https://www.justpiddlinfarm.com/

Learn more about the Certified Farm Market program at: https://www.kyfb.com/federation/programs/certified-farm-markets/

Farming can be rewarding, but it can also bring tremendous pressure and uncertainty. Farmer William McIntosh joins Let’s Get Rural for an honest conversation about the mental health struggles he has faced and how those experiences have inspired him to bring greater awareness to farmer mental health. William shares his story in hopes of reminding others in agriculture that they aren’t alone, especially during challenging times on the farm.

Let's Get Rural hits the road to Flemingsburg, Kentucky, for a special episode recorded during the Annual Fleming County Tractor Parade. What started as a parade became a celebration of everything that makes rural communities special: a deep appreciation for agriculture, a strong sense of history, and the people who keep those traditions alive. Hop on board as we take you straight to the heart of tractor country on this special road-trip edition of Let's Get Rural.

Harvest season is one of the most important times of the year for farmers, and it’s also a critical period for grain and commodity markets. On this episode of Let’s Get Rural, Kentucky Farm Bureau Commodity Marketing Specialist Taylor Thompson joins Tim Thornberry for a timely conversation about what farmers are seeing in the fields and what market analysts are watching as combines roll across the countryside.

Learn about all the best information about Kentucky commodities at: https://www.kyfb.com/federation/programs/commodities/

Brooke Pardue with the Parklands Alliance joins the show todiscuss the upcoming Jack’s Lantern Trail event in Iroquois Park. Discover how thousands of Kentucky Proud pumpkins are transformed into incredible works of art, creating a one-of-a-kind fall experience filled with fun, creativity, and family-friendly entertainment for all ages.

Learn more about Jack's Lantern Trail at: https://www.jackolanternlouisville.org/

Join us for a special episode of Let’s Get Rural as we uncover how agricultural education is making a difference in Kentucky classrooms! Discover the impact of "All In for Ag Education Week," a statewide initiative connecting students to the diverse world of agriculture and its exciting career paths. Christi Hack shares inspiring stories and innovative programs from Jessamine County, revealing how educators are helping students appreciate the vital role agriculture plays in their lives.

Learn more at: https://www.kyagr.com/marketing/ag-education-week.html

Join us on Let’s Get Rural as we spotlight Kentucky Farm Bureau’s Generation Bridge Advocate of the Year award. This year’s honoree is Melissa Miller, farmer and Executive Director of the Kentucky 4H Foundation. Discover Melissa’s inspiring story and learn how she’s helping shape the future of agriculture advocacy in Kentucky.

Learn more about the Generation Bridge Program at: https://www.kyfb.com/federation/programs/generation-bridge/

Discover the future of agricultural innovation on this episode of Let's Get Rural! We're joined by Gene Ligman, founder of Kentucky-based Clear Grain Co., one of ten startups competing in the American Farm Bureau’s Ag Innovation Challenge. Gene shares how Clear Grain is revolutionizing grain storage and transportation with cutting-edge technology designed to control pest, even those hidden inside kernels, using a unique vacuum chamber and ozone-carbon dioxide blend. Tune in to learn about the proof-of-concept journey, the fierce competition for $100,000 in startup funding, and the advances reshaping rural America.

Learn more about the AFBF Ag Innovation Challenge at: https://www.fb.org/initiative/ag-innovation-challenge

Join us on "Let’s Get Rural" as we go behind thescenes at the Kentucky State Fair. Corrine Fetter, Executive Director of Expositions for Kentucky Venues, shares how her dedicated team pulls off one of the state’s largest events and highlights why the fair is so vital to Kentucky's agricultural community.

Learn more at: https://kystatefair.org/

Each year, Miss Kentucky not only represents the Commonwealth at the Miss America contest, but also takes on a vital role as an ambassador for agriculture with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. She plays a major part in the Kentucky State Fair, including the iconic Kentucky Country Ham Breakfast and Charity Auction. Join us on “Let’s Get Rural” as Miss Kentucky shares fun stories and insights from Agland during the fair.

Instagram: missamericaky

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissAmericaKY

Join us on "Let’s Get Rural" as we dive into the world of livestock shows, a beloved tradition at state fairs across the country. In this episode, renowned judge Terry Burks shares his lifelong passion for animals and his dedication to mentoring youth in agriculture. Tune in for inspiring stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and a celebration of rural life.

If you love local food, the state fair, and way too many cookies, this episode of Let’s Get Rural is your jam. Join us as Mark Pohl, the fair’s new Cookie Guy, as he spills the tea on what it’s really like to bake up an insane amount of cookies for a state full of hungry fairgoers.

Follow Sweet Bucket Cookies at: https://www.instagram.com/sweet_buckets_cookies/

Rural development remains a critical priority for farmersand rural residents across Kentucky. In a recent discussion, Rachel Chambers, a representative from USDA Rural Development, joined Renee Carrico and KFB News Editor Tim Thornberry to explore innovative strategies and opportunities that can help rural communities not only survive, but truly thrive!

Learn more at: https://www.rd.usda.gov/ky

Let’s Get Rural welcomes historian Amalie Preston for a special episode on the history of Harrodsburg, Kentucky. From James Harrod’s frontier settlement to the region’s farming heritage, Amalie brings vivid stories and insights into the people who shaped Kentucky’s beginnings.Learn more about Harrodsburg's rich history at: https://harrodsburghistorical.org/

Join us as we sit down with two seasoned livestock experts who share their passion for teaching the ins and outs of running a successful livestock operation. From daily animal care to mastering the business side of farming, this podcast offers practical advice, insightful stories, and expert tips for everyone from beginners to seasoned ranchers.

Rural development is crucial to the future of Kentuckycommunities. It impacts our local economies, education, healthcare, and quality of life for residents across the state. On this episode, Travis Burton joins Let’s Get Rural to discuss his role in supporting and empowering rural communities.

Join us as we celebrate America's 250th anniversary byexploring the powerful connection between agriculture and military service. In this episode, we sit down with Jewett Borden, a veteran whose passion for farming and country has shaped his remarkable journey. Discover how veteransare strengthening agricultural communities across the nation, and how their service continues to make an impact, both on and off the field.

Learn more about what Jewett is up to now at: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070128452331

Join Olivia McCants of the Kentucky Historical Society as she sits down with the KFB News Editor to explore the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Daniel Boone. Discover how Boone shaped Kentucky and left a lasting mark on the nation in this engaging podcast conversation.

Learn more about the Kentucky Historical Society at: https://history.ky.gov/

Get ready to celebrate Independence Day with a special episode! Join hosts Renee and Matt as they go head-to-head in a spirited trivia challenge, all about our nation and its history. Guiding the fun is Taylor Thompson, KFB Commodity Marketing Specialist, who returns as our brilliant trivia master. Tune in for laughs, learning, and plenty of patriotic spirit!