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© Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation
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A podcast created by the Tennessee Farm Bureau where co-hosts Lee Maddox, Amy Beckham and Thomas Capps take turns interviewing folks on issues, events and news with the goal of getting to the root of the matter on what is defining our most important industry, agriculture. “Root of the Matter” is inspired by a column written by the late Melissa Burniston Bratton, but has the same goal as she had for her article – sharing the important stories of farmers and those involved in agriculture.
134 Episodes
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In this episode, we sit down with Rutherford County Farm Bureau President Trey Smith to talk about why it’s more important than ever for farmers to have a voice in the legislative process. From Tennessee Farm Bureau’s annual legislative visits to the State Capitol to the real impact of building relationships with lawmakers, Trey shares why advocacy isn’t optional—it’s essential for the future of agriculture. We also dive into some of the biggest challenges facing farmers today, including the ongoing loss of farmland and the pressures of rapid growth in rural and developing areas. As communities expand, what does that mean for the farms that feed us—and what can be done to protect them?
The Tennessee Valley Authority has played a major role in powering communities across the region for decades—but today the mission is evolving. As Tennessee’s population grows and new technologies increase energy demand, TVA is working to expand and modernize the grid while continuing to serve rural communities and the agricultural backbone of the state. In this episode, we sit down with Scott Turnbow to talk about how TVA is supporting farmers across rural Tennessee and helping communities prepare for the future. We discuss the unique energy needs of agriculture, how TVA partners with rural areas to support economic development, and the new energy sources being explored to meet rising demand. We also dive into one of the biggest emerging challenges in the energy world: the rapid growth of AI and data centers. As more of these facilities move into rural areas, TVA is working to ensure the infrastructure is ready to support them while maintaining reliable and affordable power for the region.
The cotton industry is facing serious headwinds—from shrinking acreage to volatile markets and rising input costs. In this episode, we sit down with Bradley Williams, President of the National Cotton Ginners Association, to talk about the tough realities confronting growers and ginners today. We discuss the steady decline of cotton acres across Tennessee, the economic pressures pushing farmers to alternative crops, and why developing new domestic and international markets is critical for the future of U.S. cotton. Bradley also shares insight into how the ginning sector is adapting and what gives him hope moving forward.
In this episode, we sit down with Shane Profitt to talk about the journey from small-town Tennessee to the country music spotlight. Growing up in rural Maury County, Shane shares how life on backroads, blue-collar values, and tight-knit community shaped not only who he is—but the songs he writes. We dive into his early days playing local gigs, the grind it took to get noticed, and what it feels like to hear your own music spinning on the radio. Shane opens up about the real stories behind his lyrics, the influence of his rural roots, and why staying authentic matters more than ever in today’s country scene.
Agriculture is no stranger to cycles, but today’s landscape presents a unique combination of opportunity and pressure. In this episode, we sit down with Nick Patterson of Clay County, president-elect of the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association, to talk about what high prices really mean for Tennessee producers—and the high stakes that come with them.
First-generation cattle farmer Russ Uselton joins the show to break down the realities of today’s beef cattle market, the pressures facing modern farmers, and what it takes to build an operation from the ground up. Drawing on both his firsthand experience and his leadership as Region II Federation Vice President for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, Russ explains why strong advocacy for agriculture is more critical than ever and how producers can help shape the future of the industry.
https://youtu.be/BYA1vayx0Wc
Joey Caldwell was recently named CEO of Tennessee Farmers Cooperative. A longtime leader within the organization, Caldwell has spent the majority of his career with TFC. As he steps into his new role, he reflects on his professional journey and shares his vision for the future of the co-op in the years ahead.
U.S. Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Stephen Vaden is laser-focused on helping pull the U.S. farm economy out of the difficult stretch it has faced for several consecutive years. He joins us to discuss USDA’s latest efforts and why he’s optimistic that better days are ahead.
Logan Hanks and Bobby Lee Hanks are two guys from Tipton County with a strong passion for agriculture. Logan is a full-time row-crop farmer, while Bobby Lee is a veterinarian who also raises beef cattle on the side. The two cousins are now also successful podcast hosts of the Talk Dirt To Me podcast, where they discuss all things agriculture. We sat down with them to talk about their recent success in the podcasting world and why they see it as a way to reach people outside of agriculture.
As farmers look ahead to 2026, strong agricultural policy is more important than ever. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall sits down to discuss the challenges farmers face this year and how Farm Bureau continues to be a steady, strong voice advancing pro-agriculture policy.
Trade has been a major topic over the past year, and as the U.S. agriculture industry continues to face challenges, trade has become more important than ever. In this episode former, USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Ted McKinney joins the conversation to discuss global agricultural trade. Drawing on his experience traveling the world to negotiate trade deals, McKinney shares where the Trump administration stands in the process of negotiating new agreements and where he sees U.S. agricultural trade in 2026.
Tennessee Farm Bureau Insurance CEO Jeff Pannell faced the toughest moment of his life earlier this year when he learned he needed a heart transplant. In this episode, Jeff shares the powerful story behind his transplant and the miracle that saved his life. Through faith, prayer, and perseverance, he reflects on the long season of waiting, the breakthrough moment, the grace that carried him through, and the new outlook on life he carries as he steps into retirement.
Tennessee native Butch Wilmore has spent his entire career serving his nation. After beginning his career as a Navy test pilot, Wilmore went on to become a NASA astronaut. His final test mission drew significant attention when issues with the spacecraft left him and his crewmate aboard the International Space Station for nine months. Despite the setback and the extended time in space, Wilmore says he remained content by relying on his faith in Christ.
Cannon County’s own T. Wayne Williams is a true rock star in the FFA world. After earning numerous awards at the local and state levels and serving as Tennessee FFA State President, T. Wayne has now been elected National Southern Region Vice President. Selected as one of only six National FFA Officers nationwide, T. Wayne is excited to lead, serve, and represent Tennessee on the national—and global—stage. His dedication to agriculture, leadership, and service continues to make Cannon County proud.
Dale Parker of Warren County has been named the new Executive Vice President of the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association. Having operated a beef cattle farm for most of his life, Dale understands firsthand both the joys and challenges of the beef industry. He speaks with us about what this new role means to him and shares his vision for the future of the TCA.
In this episode, we explore what it really takes to get more people into hunting and fishing—and why it matters for conservation, community, and the future of our wild places. TWRA Director Jason Mexedon joins us to break down the barriers new hunters and anglers face, the programs that are working, and how each of us can play a role in growing the next generation of outdoorsmen and women.
In honor of Veterans Day, we sit down with Army veteran Rodney Fugate to reflect on his service, resilience, and life after the uniform. Rodney shares stories from his time in the U.S. Army, the challenges and lessons learned through his military journey, and how those experiences continue to shape him as he farms in Claiborne County.
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has a strong tradition of providing top-tier research in the agricultural industry. Recent federal funding awarded to the state has been allocated to enhance resources at various agricultur research centers across Tennessee. Lee Maddox spoke with Randy Boyd, Dr. Hongwei Xin, Scott Stewart, and State Representative Chris Todd about the recent investment at the West Tennessee Research Center.
Beef cattle prices are hitting historic highs — but what’s driving the surge, and could a wave of Argentine imports change the game? In this episode, we dig into the global forces shaping today’s cattle markets, from domestic herd numbers to international trade dynamics. Livestock economist, Dr. Andrew Griffith, breaks down the economics behind record beef prices. We discuss how supply shortages, inflation, and shifting consumer demand have created a perfect storm — and what potential Argentine beef imports might mean for producers, packers, and consumers across the U.S
Fall is a busy time at Apple Valley Orchard, a family-owned farm nestled in the rolling hills of Cleveland. Owner Chuck McSpadden tells how his father started the orchard from two trees to now hundreds. From crisp apples and fresh cider to homemade fried pies and warm southern hospitality, Apple Valley Orchard offers more than just produce—it’s a place where the community gathers.
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