Podcast (root-of-the-matter-podcast): Play in new window | Download
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 […]Jan 7, 2026
Podcast (root-of-the-matter-podcast): Play in new window | Download
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 […]Dec 29, 2025
Podcast (root-of-the-matter-podcast): Play in new window | Download
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 […]Dec 22, 2025
Podcast (root-of-the-matter-podcast): Play in new window | Download
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 […]Dec 17, 2025
Podcast (root-of-the-matter-podcast): Play in new window | Download
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 […]Dec 5, 2025
Podcast (root-of-the-matter-podcast): Play in new window | Download
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 […]Nov 19, 2025
Podcast (root-of-the-matter-podcast): Play in new window | Download
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 […]Nov 11, 2025
Podcast (root-of-the-matter-podcast): Play in new window | Download
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 […]Nov 5, 2025
Podcast (root-of-the-matter-podcast): Play in new window | Download
Oct 30, 2025
Podcast (root-of-the-matter-podcast): Play in new window | Download
Oct 15, 2025
Podcast (root-of-the-matter-podcast): Play in new window | Download
Oct 8, 2025
Podcast (root-of-the-matter-podcast): Play in new window | Download
Oct 1, 2025
Podcast (root-of-the-matter-podcast): Play in new window | Download
Sep 24, 2025
Podcast (root-of-the-matter-podcast): Play in new window | Download
Weather can make or break a farm season—and farmers are watching the skies more closely than ever. In this episode, we dive into the newly released 2026 Farmers’ Almanac with its editor, who reveals bold predictions for Tennessee’s fall and winter. Plus, atmospheric scientist Eric Snodgrass from Nutrien Ag Solutions joins us to break down […]Sep 17, 2025