In this episode of Growing Our Future, host Aaron Alejandro welcomes Marty Bryan, a multifaceted entrepreneur, seasoned restaurateur, and a beacon of hospitality. Marty shares his journey, beginning with his upbringing in the FFA, through his experiences in the restaurant industry, to his current ventures. He emphasizes the importance of gratitude, faith, and hard work in his success, highlighting his commitment to providing hospitality and building connections through his businesses. Marty's leadership philosophy revolves around hiring the right people, fostering honesty, and exercising discipline, creating a thriving culture centered on service and excellence.

Through Marty's inspiring narrative, listeners gain insights into the power of gratitude, authenticity, and effective leadership in business. His emphasis on truth-telling, personal growth, and cultivating a supportive work environment underscores the importance of aligning values with actions to achieve success. The episode offers a compelling blend of personal anecdotes, practical wisdom, and entrepreneurial strategies, encouraging listeners to embrace challenges, pursue their passions, and prioritize meaningful connections in their professional endeavors.

Story Notes:

• Gratitude and Faith
• Pioneering Hospitality
• Pathway to Success
• The Power of Leadership
• Building a Thriving Culture

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

In this episode of the "Growing Our Future" podcast, host Aaron Alejandro welcomes Karissa Jones, a Strategic Account Manager at BASF. Karissa shares her journey from a non-traditional agricultural background to her current role, emphasizing the importance of initiative, learning from setbacks, and developing soft skills through FFA involvement. She highlights networking, effective communication, and being coachable as key to success in any career. Aaron and Karissa underscore the value of FFA in cultivating essential skills and offering practical advice for listeners navigating their own career paths.

Story Notes:

• Karissa's Journey at BASF
• Philanthropy and Leadership
• Importance of Networking
• Effective Communication
• Coachability and Leadership

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

In this episode of "The Growing Our Future" podcast hosted by Aaron Alejandro, Gary Joiner, the Director of Communications at the Texas Farm Bureau, shares insights into the vital role of communications in agriculture. Gary reflects on his journey, starting from his chance encounter covering a Farm Bureau event to becoming its communications director. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling in bridging the gap between farmers and the public, especially the youth.

The conversation delves into the diverse career opportunities in agriculture communications, highlighting the need for skilled communicators to amplify the industry's message. They discuss the evolving landscape of agricultural communication, incorporating platforms like TikTok and addressing public expectations around sustainability. Throughout the episode, the trustworthiness of farmers and ranchers, coupled with their dedication to sustainability, emerges as a central theme, driving home the importance of effective communication in shaping public perception and advancing agricultural practices.

Story Notes:

• Who is Gary Joiner
• Communication and Agriculture
• Career Journey
• Opportunities in Agriculture
• The Role of Trust
• Utilizing Social Media
• The Importance of Planting Seeds
• Nurturing Growth
• Fostering Community Trough Ariculture

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

In this episode of The Growing Our Future podcast, hosted by Aaron Alejandro with guest Victor Guerra, the conversation delves into the essence of gratitude, resilience, and leadership within the context of agricultural education and personal development.

Aaron and Victor begin by emphasizing the significance of gratitude in daily life, highlighting the importance of acknowledging even the smallest blessings. Victor reflects on his upbringing on a ranch and his journey through the FFA program, underscoring the transformative power of gratitude amidst life's challenges. He shares personal anecdotes, including his aspirations to become a state FFA president and the disappointment of falling short of that goal. However, Victor's resilience shines through as he emphasizes the value of the journey, the lessons learned, and the network built.

The discussion expands to encompass the unique culture and agricultural landscape of South Texas, showcasing the region's spirit and resilience. Through Victor's insights, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the FFA experience and the enduring impact of embracing gratitude and resilience in pursuit of one's goals.

Story Notes:

• Creativity and Vision
• Faith and Belief
• Resilience and Perseverance
• Journey to Leadership
• Resilience and Valuing the Journey
• Competitive Edge

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

In this episode of The Growing Our Future podcast, host Aaron Alejandro interviews Andrew Christensen, Senior Managing Director at Ascendion. Andrew shares his journey, starting from his passion for veterinary science in high school to his current leadership role. He emphasizes the importance of trying out different activities, networking, and building relationships. Despite growing up in a city, Andrew found his path through FFA, which offered him unique opportunities and a diverse network. He encourages listeners to embrace opportunities, be prepared, and prioritize relationships to achieve success.

Story Notes:

• Exploration and Inquisitiveness
• Reflections on Core Values
• Insights for High School Students
• Building Relationships
• Vulnerability and Growth
• Opportunities in Unexpected Places

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

Hosted by Aaron Alejandro, this episode features a captivating conversation with Roger Rickard, the Founder & President of Voices in Advocacy®, and author of "7 Actions of Highly Effective Advocates." Roger shares his journey from humble beginnings in a blue-collar town to becoming a renowned advocate and leader in advocacy efforts.

In this episode, Aaron and Roger delve into Roger's early experiences in political campaigns, highlighting the importance of grassroots efforts and personal connections in advocacy work. Roger emphasizes the significance of believing in the impact of one's actions and staying informed about relevant issues.

Story Notes:

• Meet Roger Rickard
• The Power of Advocacy
• Belief as a Foundation
• Volunteerism
• Being Informed
• Getting on the Record
• Being a Resource

Learn more at MyTexasFFA.org

Welcome to another episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast with host Aaron Alejandro, featuring Joanna Pineda,Founder, CEO and Chief Troublemaker at Matrix Group International, and host of the "Associations Thrive" podcast. Joanna shares her journey from the Philippines to Silicon Valley, her pivotal role in the development of the online bidding system for FCC spectrum licenses, and the founding of Matrix Group in 1999. Key traits in her journey include resilience, risk-taking, and tenacity, with an emphasis on being well-read and curious in spotting trends.

The concept of becoming "centaurs"—partnering with AI for strength, innovation, and empathy—is explored, highlighting the need for positive human influence in directing technology. Joanna encourages young professionals to be resilient, take calculated risks, and be persistent, while Aaron emphasizes the importance of consistency and paying attention for a thriving future. Stay tuned for more insightful episodes of the Growing Our Future Podcast.

Story Notes:

• Joanna's Journey
• The Pandemic Challenge
• Spotting Trends and Technology
• Lessons from AI and Centaurs
• Partnering with Technology
• Encouragement for Future Generations

Learn More at:

https://mytexasffa.org/

Welcome to another episode of Growing Our Future! Host Aaron Alejandro expresses gratitude for the audience's continuous support and the opportunity to learn from inspiring guests.

This week's special guest is Terren Moore, the dynamic Agency Owner of Moore Farms & Insurance. Aaron expresses excitement about having Terren on the podcast and looks forward to delving into his experiences and insights.

The episode begins with a focus on planting the right seeds for a prosperous future and nurturing them to fruition. Terren recounts his unexpected journey, starting at the age of 15 with the Future Farmers of America (FFA), and reflects on the impact of networking and relationships in his life.

The conversation delves into Terren's awards and recognitions, emphasizing the importance of a competitive edge and early investment in meaningful connections. Terren shares valuable networking wisdom, highlighting the benefits of remaining coachable and building relationships in high school. The episode concludes with Aaron and Terren underscoring the perpetual need for networking and continuous learning. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the power of relationships in shaping their own paths.

Story Notes:

• Insights into Terren's Journey
• Awards and Recognitions
• Discussion on Competitive Edge
• Networking Wisdom
• Building Relationships in High School
• Subject Matter Expertise and Networking

Learn More at:

https://mytexasffa.org/