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
Charly Cummings with Superior Livestock Auctions provides a real-time look at cattle market activity, demand trends, and what lies ahead for upcoming livestock auctions in Texas.
Ag Literacy Week connects students to farming through school visits and hands-on learning
Real Ag Radio’s Shaun Haney talks about astronaut Jeremy Hansen’s historic moment in space with NASA’s Artemis II mission, and Hansen’s connection to agriculture as the son of a Canadian farmer.
Rancher and Americans for Prosperity Director Tyler Lindholm breaks down the Wyoming Food Freedom Act, clarifies licensing questions, and discusses the future of local agriculture in the state.
Farm Bureau Economist Dr. Faith Parum warns farmers to brace for more losses as the war in Iran sends shockwaves through the ag economy and raises input costs even further.
Jose de Jesus explains the National Pork Board’s new campaign, “Taste What Pork Can Do,” which aims to build long-term engagement with Millennial and Gen-Z consumers.

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The uncommon delivery has kept one farmer busy caring for four newborn kids at once.
The fifth-generation operation continues balancing family tradition with a focus on growth and sustainability.
The Nevada cattle operation continues focusing on sustainable land management for future generations.
The country artist’s “Stand By Your Pan” blends vintage-inspired recipes with stories, humor, and Southern hospitality.
New data from the Illinois Farm Bureau show that farm financial conditions are stabilizing, even as debt per acre and borrowing costs continue to climb.
New trade access, tariff concerns and international negotiations are reshaping the global beef market.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Opry Live is the premier weekly broadcast and livestream of the Grand Ole Opry, featuring country music superstars, legends, and rising talent performing on stage in Nashville.
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.
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.
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!
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.