4-H Members Highlight the Impact of Mentorship in Agriculture

Tennessee students share how the program fosters confidence, connection, and a sense of community

NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) --- 4H continues to highlight how mentorship is a key aspect of the agriculture industry.

Cole Burchell and Ben Jackson, two members of Tennessee 4-H, joined us in the studio to share how the organization and their role models have taught them the values of volunteerism, teamwork, and respect.

Burchell, who serves as the All-Star Deputy Chief, talked to RFD News about the meaningful relationships he has formed because of the organization.

“My family wasn’t really active in the program. I kind of found out about it on my own, but I found a family within 4-H from that,” Burchell says, “I really found a love for being able to communicate with people and be able to make connections.”

While Burchell did not have ties to the organization prior, it has always been a family affair for Jackson. Despite his mother serving as a 4-H agent during his childhood, Jackson was initially apprehensive about participating in the organization. Jackson now serves as the Western Region Junior Representative.

“We’ve been in it for as long as I can remember, even before I could qualify as a clover,” Jackson continued, “I couldn’t stand making those piggy banks and writing those speeches that she’d make me do, but I understand now why she did it and how influential it’s been in my life. It’s amazing.”

Both club members encourage others to join in and emphasize the program’s goal of serving the community around them.

Related Stories
Valley Irrigation’s Darren Siekman explains the advantages of their new pivots for growers managing acreages of up to 60 acres.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold discusses spring allergies and respiratory illnesses on this week’s Rural Health Matters, offering advice on managing symptoms and knowing when to seek professional help.
Jeramy Stephens with National Land Realty explains how the Supreme Court’s tariff ruling and ongoing ‘America First’ trade policy raise new questions about U.S. farmland values and agricultural market stability.
Farm bill negotiations remain unsettled, leaving producers waiting for updated federal support programs.
Roger McEowen of Washburn University School of Law joined us to discuss key legal and tax issues ranchers should consider as they recover from recent prairie fires across the Southern Plains.
China may no longer serve as a consistent anchor market for U.S. cotton exports. Lewis Williamson of HTS Commodities joined us to discuss the factors influencing planting decisions, river conditions, and what producers are considering as they finalize acreage plans for the season.

Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Bill Gaither, the founder of one of gospel’s most successful groups, the Gaither Vocal Band, and his wife, Gloria, are delighted to showcase their favorite gospel music during “Gaither Gospel Hour” on RFD-TV.
FarmHER + RanchHER on RFD-TV is working to change how people perceive a farmer by sharing the stories of the women who live and lead in agriculture.