From STEM to Stock Shows: Tennessee 4-H Youth Leaders Share Goals for the New Year

Tennessee 4-H members Jayden Hesson and Matthew Rochford joined us to discuss how 4-H is helping young leaders plan for the future of agriculture.

NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — With the start of a new year comes new goals, especially for the future of agriculture. Tennessee 4-H is encouraging members to plan wisely as they build skills in confidence, leadership, and resilience that will serve them well both inside and outside of agriculture.

Tennessee 4-H members Jayden Hesson and Matthew Rochford joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to share how their involvement in the program has helped shape their goals and personal growth.

Rochford discussed how his 4-H journey began as a fifth grader through a STEM class and grew into leadership roles at both the regional and state levels.

He also highlighted his entrepreneurial efforts through Matthew’s Market, where he sells produce and eggs, and shared how 4-H has influenced his interest in pursuing a degree in business administration or a pre-med path.

Hesson reflected on her eight years of involvement with 4-H and shared how the program has strengthened her interest in animal science and family and consumer sciences.

She also spoke about his leadership experience as Macon County 4-H Honor Club president and State All-Star Scribe, and how those roles prepared her for future opportunities.

Related Stories
Mike Newland with the Propane Education & Research Council shares how producers can prepare for winter weather and the benefits of propane.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer shares insight into what these new accounts, established in provisions of the Big, Beautiful Bill, could mean for the farm families.
AFBF Economist Danny Munch shares how passing the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act could give the dairy industry a needed boost.
Jan and Erin Johnson also join FarmHER + RanchHER host Kirbe Schnoor on this week’s Dirt Diaries podcast to dig in on entrepreneurship, legacy, and letting go.
It started as a simple service project for 4-H — collect some shoes, help a few people. But for Franklin Parish High School senior Eli Rogers, it has turned into something much bigger.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Iowa Ag Secretary Naig recaps discussions surrounding a potential federal aid package for farmers and shares insights on producer sentiment in the Heartland.
FarmHER Katey Jo Evans of The Frozen Farmer joins us for a sneak peek of the latest episode of Dirt Diaries: The FarmHER + RanchHER Podcast.
Winter weather will challenge livestock producers working to rebuild their herds despite harsh conditions.
House lawmakers are expected to vote late this afternoon to end the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. The bill they are voting on includes some big priorities for Rural America.
Kubota President Alex Woods discusses the “Geared to Give” program, the company’s commitment to those who served, and how the initiative continues to grow and impact veterans.
Tyson expects another year of beef-segment losses due to tight cattle supplies, even as chicken, pork, and prepared foods strengthen overall margins.
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.
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.
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!
Celebrating 16 Consecutive Seasons on RFD Network! “The Penny Gilley Show,” starring “The Sweetheart of Country Music” herself, Penny Gilley.