The AGVENTURES Podcast With Chandler FFA
The Chandler FFA agricultural communications class.
Chandler FFA members in Oklahoma are taking agricultural education beyond the classroom with their podcast, AGVENTURES. Created by the agricultural communications class, the podcast informs listeners about FFA activities, highlights agricultural topics and encourages more students to get involved.
“We want to inspire young children to partake in an ag class, inform members and non-members of all FFA-related activities and grow as individuals while working stronger as a group,” says sophomore Cambria Barbero.
Getting the podcast off the ground included challenges. Students had to secure sponsorships from local businesses to fund their equipment, and delays in shipping pushed back their first episode release. However, the group stayed motivated and launched a TikTok account during the wait, quickly gaining a following.
“The biggest challenge was getting all of our set-up equipment in on time,” Barbero says. “A handful of the materials took longer than expected, so we had to push back our first episode.”
The podcast covers a variety of agricultural topics. Junior Bryar Dryden shared that each episode is carefully planned as a team effort. “We discuss ideas as a group. Topics get pitched and voted on before we plan each episode,” Dryden says. “We talk about FFA and how our land and animals are impacted by what we do.”
Students rotate roles within the podcast, giving everyone hands-on experience in different aspects of production, including hosting, filming and editing. Sophomore Autumn Rednour says this flexibility has helped her grow personally and professionally.“My role changes biweekly. So, far I’ve hosted episodes and edited videos,” Rednour says. “This podcast has pushed me out of my comfort zone and made being in front of the camera less awkward.”
Recording the podcast.
The class uses a mix of equipment, including wireless microphones for interviews, stand microphones for studio recordings and their teacher’s phone as a camera. Editing is completed using school computers and video software, with each episode typically taking about two weeks from planning to publishing.
“Something that surprised me was the community support,” Rednour says. “Through companies and community members, we were given funds and major support.”
Their podcast focuses on agriculture, and students agree that it’s not just about facts; it’s also about connecting with their audience. “We don’t just make it word for word facts,” Dryden says. “We’re funny and make sure people understand FFA and why we do it.”
One of the group’s most interesting episodes is a Valentine’s themed project where members created bouquets and delivered them to school staff to spread kindness. “This episode is a great example of how FFA promotes kindness and joy while expanding education,” Barbero says.
As the AGVENTURES podcast continues to grow, members hope it will leave a lasting impact on their chapter and community. “I hope when people watch the podcast, they learn more about what this organization offers and are encouraged to join FFA,” Barbero says. According to Rednour, “My hope is for more people to know about it and become more involved as the podcast continues to grow for years to come.”
Through creativity and teamwork, Chandler FFA members are proving that learning can extend beyond the classroom, one episode at a time.
