Growing Kentucky's Leaders: A Podcast by the Kentucky FFA Foundation

Aiden Manley, 2025-26 Kentucky FFA President - Retiring Address

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we hear from Aiden Manley, the 2025–2026 Kentucky FFA State President. In his retiring address at state convention, Aiden shared a deeply personal journey of overcoming unexpected hardships — from a sudden childhood move to an isolated Eastern Kentucky holler, to family financial crises and a terrifying medical emergency with his sister.

Josh Mitcham, Carol Martin Gatton FFA Leadership Training Center Director

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, we hear from Josh Mitcham, Director of the Carol Martin Gatton FFA Leadership Training Center. Josh explains why this historic camp— bursting at the seams with close to 400 students a week — remains the ultimate launchpad for the next generation of agricultural leaders. Links: Carol Martin Gatton FFA Leadership Training Center [https://www.ffa.org/donors/a-new-era-for-kentucky-ffa/]

Jacee McKeel and Tyren Harris, Kentucky FFA State Officers

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann welcome back two familiar faces: State FFA Secretary Jacee McKeel and State Treasurer Tyren Harris. With less than three weeks left in their term of service, Jacee and Tyren pull back the curtain on their incredible year and give listeners a behind-the-scenes sneak peek at the upcoming Kentucky State FFA Convention. From the hard work that goes into memorizing hours of scripts to adding "bigger and better" surprises for members, the duo shares what it truly means to be facilitators of an unforgettable member experience.

Annagrace Sholar and Sara Thakur, Madisonville North Hopkins FFA

On this episode of Growing Kentucky’s Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann are joined by Annagrace Sholar and Sara Thakur from Madisonville North Hopkins High School. Tune in to hear about the massive impact of the Kentucky FFA Foundation grants, student-led entrepreneurship and the inspiring journey of cultivating the next generation of community leaders. Links: Teachers Turn the Key [https://www.naae.org/professional-development/explore-naae-professional-development-opportunities/national-programs/teachers-turn-the-key/] Better Days Through Better Ways [https://kyffa.org/better-days-through-better-ways-applications/] Grants [https://kyffa.org/grants/]

Coty Back, Kentucky FFA State Convention Keynote Speaker

On this episode of Growing Kentucky's Leaders, Sheldon and Ruth Ann welcome back a familiar face to the Kentucky FFA community, Coty Back. Ahead of his upcoming keynote address at the Kentucky FFA State Convention, Coty shares his insights on what truly separates a good leader from a great one. From the power of daily disciplines to the invaluable nature of "human capital" and mentorship, Cody unpacks how high school students and young professionals alike can intentionally level up their leadership skills. Links: Coty Back LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/coty-back-2b8b87b/] Mr. Sketch Markers [https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Sketch-1905069-Assorted-12-Count/dp/B00006IFH0] The Facilitator's Friend [https://www.instagram.com/thefacilitatorsfriend/]