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
University of Nebraska-Lincoln President Dr. Jeffrey Gold talks about heart health and preventive care for viewers in rural communities.
Jeramy Stephens of National Land Realty breaks down current trends in the farmland real estate market and how landowners should consider water availability and its impact on land values as they plan for the year ahead.
As cattle markets show renewed strength, producers gathering at CattleCon are focused on protecting operations, managing risk, and positioning for opportunity in the year ahead.
The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo continues through Saturday, showcasing livestock, youth involvement, and agricultural talent, with the Junior Sale of Champions serving as the culmination of the 23-day event.
We caught up with John Deere’s Hay & Forage Got-To Market Manager Kaylene Ballesteros to learn how tech is evolving how producers make hay, from baling efficiency to operator confidence.
Mexico has fallen behind by several hundred thousand acre-feet in required water deliveries to the United States, a shortfall that has had devastating consequences across the Rio Grande Valley.
U.S. Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas discusses expected changes to the 45Z tax credit and what they could mean for agriculture and rural America.
Securing Critical Water Resources for South Texas Agriculture
Tennessee State Veterinarian Dr. Samantha Batey joined us with the latest on biosecurity efforts and the state’s new “Know Before You Show” initiative.

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.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
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.
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.
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!
This hour-long show explores the trains and locomotives that aided the growth of travel, further settlement, and the development of a variety of American industries and agricultural ventures.
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.