Ringing the Bell for the Next Generation: Texas FFA Alum Modernizes Junior Livestock Shows, One Bid at a Time

Brent Graves, auctioneer and mentor, shares his journey supporting youth in agriculture, livestock competitions, and how he is turning junior livestock auctions into a classroom for youth in agriculture.

ffa iowa state fair livestock show_ farmher_IMG_3152 copy.jpg

FFA students participate in junior livestock shows at the Iowa State Fair.

FarmHER, Inc.

MIDLAND, Texas (RFD NEWS) — Brent Graves is more than an auctioneer. He is a mentor, leader, and advocate for youth in agriculture, known for his success in state and international competitions and for helping modernize junior livestock auctions through online platforms.

Graves joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to share his story and discuss his continued work supporting young people in agriculture.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Graves reflected on what first sparked his interest in auctioneering and how his time at Texas Tech helped shape his career path. He also looked ahead to the spring run of livestock auctions and stock shows, offering insight into what the upcoming season may hold.

He also discussed his experience serving as a Texas FFA state officer and how that role influenced his passion for agriculture and youth development. He emphasized that supporting young people who show livestock is a personal mission for him and remains important to the industry’s future.

To learn more, visit www.stockshowauctions.com.

Related Stories
Here is a regional snapshot of harvest pace, crop conditions, logistics, and livestock economics across U.S. agriculture for the week of Monday, November 17, 2025.
UMN Extension’s Emily Krekelberg outlines today’s top farm stressors, key signs of mental health distress in rural communities, and the resources available for support.
The ACRE Act modestly reduces farmland borrowing costs now, with more savings possible once federal guidance clarifies which loans qualify.
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture is helping connect veterans with resources to pursue careers in farming and agriculture.

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:

Higher rail tariffs and tighter Canadian supplies will keep oat transportation costs firm into 2026.
These “USDA Foods” are provided to USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) nutrition assistance programs, including food banks that operate The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), and are a vital component of the nation’s food safety net.
Tyson’s closure reflects deep supply shortages in the U.S. cattle industry, tightening packing capacity, weakening competition, and signaling more volatility ahead for cow-calf producers and feedyards.
Gary Hall, co-founder of Hollywood Impact Studios Rehabilitation, joined the program to discuss using agriculture to provide opportunities and mentorship for at-risk youth in Southern California.
The agriculture workforce remains strong and diverse, offering meaningful pathways for students pursuing careers that support the food and farm economy.
Screwworm.gov has targeted resources for a wide range of stakeholders, including livestock producers, veterinarians, animal health officials, wildlife professionals, healthcare providers, pet owners, researchers, drug manufacturers, and the general public.
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.
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.
Celebrating 16 Consecutive Seasons on RFD Network! “The Penny Gilley Show,” starring “The Sweetheart of Country Music” herself, Penny Gilley.