The Communications Group has been in business for more than 30 years. During that time, we have taken note of the growing number of leadership roles, and the influence women have in the industries we serve and celebrate their efforts and achievements. This series is meant to honor women who have inspired action, achieved success, excelled in their field and encouraged the generations of women to follow in their footsteps. This year, The Communications Group will recognize women in the Agriculture, B2B, and Government sectors who serve in various leadership roles.
Thu, February 06, 2025
In honor of National Girls and Women in Sports Day, the WIN podcast welcomes Kristy Bayer, Athletic Director at Rockhurst University. Overseeing a thriving NCAA DII athletic department with 24 sports, 25 employees, and 575 athletes, Bayer shares her journey—from her own athletic upbringing to leading with impact. Tune in and get an inside look at the fast-paced world of an Athletic Director! Learn more about Kristy Bayer: https://www.comgroup.com/women-in-industry/kristy-bayer Nominate an impactful women to appear on WIN: http://comgroup.com/women-in-industry-nomination Learn more about Rockhurst University Athletics: https://rockhursthawks.com/
Wed, November 13, 2024
As the Executive Director and Founder, Michelle Barnes focuses on celebrating the power of women. The mission of Real Images, Inc. is simple, ensure that young girls and women are empowered and educated to become the healthiest versions of themselves through programs, scholarships, and service.
Wed, October 16, 2024
In this episode of the Women in Industry Podcast, we’re joined by Stacy Harper, founder of Light House Solutions, Inc., a nonprofit organization helping to improve the quality of life for children, teens, and their families living in under-served and marginalized communities of Northwest Arkansas.
Wed, October 02, 2024
In this episode of the Women in Industry Podcast, we’re joined by Karen McClard, Program Coordinator for the L.I.F.E. Cycle Project at Light House Solutions, Inc., an organization dedicated to promoting personal wellness through education, empowerment, and advocacy for menstrual equity. Karen’s inspiring journey from social work to advocating for period poverty awareness is filled with passion and purpose.
Wed, September 25, 2024
In this episode of the Women In Industry Podcast, Senior Producer Jacq LaBeff interviews Lisa Van Hook, newly promoted President of The Communications Group. Lisa shares her career journey, insights on leadership, and the significance of receiving the prestigious Crystal Award from the Arkansas chapter of PRSA.
Wed, September 04, 2024
Join us as we sit down with Dr. Fredricka Sharkey, Director of Media Relations at the University of Central Arkansas, to explore her dynamic career journey from broadcast journalism to higher education leadership. Dr. Sharkey shares insights into her role in shaping UCA's narrative and the importance of storytelling in highlighting the university's growth and achievements.
Wed, August 07, 2024
In this episode, we’re excited to speak with Sericia Nelson, the executive editor of Noir Magazine, a publication dedicated to highlighting the rich culture and achievements of African Americans in Arkansas. But she hasn’t always been at Noir Magazine, Sericia’s diverse career includes roles in public relations and communications consulting in various fields. From politics to philanthropies, Sericia shares her journey both personal and professional explaining that each role added to her extensive skill set and deepened her commitment to impactful storytelling.
Wed, July 10, 2024
In our first-ever mini-sode of the award-winning WIN Podcast, Jacq LaBeff sits down with Belinda Farmer, the Director of the McClinton Cancer Center at Hillcrest Health Center in Waco, Texas. Belinda shares her inspiring professional journey, her deep faith, and her heartwarming experiences as a mother and foster mom.
Wed, June 05, 2024
In this episode of the Women in Industry (WIN) podcast, host Lisa Van Hook, Executive Vice President at the Communications Group, welcomes Shaneil “PJ” Yarbrough, an early childhood education professional. PJ shares her inspiring journey from being a fifth-grade teacher to becoming the Early Childhood Trainer Manager at the University of Arkansas Early Care and Education Project.
Wed, May 01, 2024
On this episode, we'll dive into Amy's journey, discussing her transition from the finance sector to entrepreneurship. Tune in to discover Amy's insights on crafting brand voice and authentic social media engagement, alongside her dedication to community initiatives and societal impact. We'll also explore the importance of embracing discomfort in marketing, adapting to change, and prioritizing personal well-being. Tune in for a compelling discussion on career transitions, embracing change, and personal well-being.
Wed, April 03, 2024
In this episode of the Women in Industry Podcast, we spoke with Dr. Riva Brown, Associate Professor of Public Relations at the University of Central Arkansas (UCA), and a dedicated Global Learning Specialist. Dr. Brown shares her journey from journalism to higher education, highlighting her teaching philosophy focused on real-world experiential learning and service opportunities for students. She explains the concept of service learning, emphasizing its role in enabling students to apply classroom knowledge to assist non-profit organizations.
Tue, October 10, 2023
We’re joined by Megan Brown, co-founder and executive director of Hoper Found of Northeast Arkansas, an organization dedicated to serving human trafficking victims and survivors by providing resources including holistic case management. Megan’s journey of battling human trafficking began in college when a documentary inspired her, propelling her into the world of advocacy. Megan, a licensed social worker and Arkansas State University alumna, and her team have impacted over 6,000 people through education and support. Listen to this episode as Megan combats human trafficking myths and discusses the impact she makes in her community.
Thu, August 24, 2023
Cat Frans, the executive director of the Independent Professional Seed Association (IPSA), shares her unique journey into the agriculture industry, despite not having a background in the industry. IPSA, formed in 1989, represents independent seed companies in the Midwest that specialize in corn and soybean production. As the Executive Director, Cat runs the day-to-day operations of IPSA and works tirelessly to bring more benefits to its members. She emphasizes the importance of providing a unified voice and support for independent seed companies, advocating for their interests, and addressing their specific challenges. IPSA offers educational programs, networking opportunities, and keeps its members informed about the latest research and market trends. Tune in to this enlightening episode of the WIN Podcast to learn more about Cat Frans' journey and the impactful work IPSA is doing for independent seed companies in the Midwest. Discover the fascinating world of seeds and agriculture as we delve into the inspiring story of Cat and the important role IPSA plays in the industry.
Thu, July 13, 2023
This week’s WIN guest is Nichole Parks, the Director of Programs at the Leading For Children, a national nonprofit that offers mutual early learning programs in communities to ensure all children thrive. Nichole, a Sherwood resident, supports the development and implementation of the organization’s programs and is part of the organization’s leadership team. Despite growing up in an impoverished and segregated community, Nichole’s early childhood educators nurtured a sense of respect within her and her peers, leaving a lasting impact on her throughout her formative years. This foundation became instrumental in shaping her career centered around advocating for equity, particularly in the field of early education. Tune into this episode to learn more about how Nichole’s commitment and leadership creates a brighter future for the next generation.
Tue, June 20, 2023
This week’s WIN guest is Jennifer Verkamp-Ruthven, the Director of Catholic Immigration Services and Refugee Resettlement at the Little Rock Diocese of Little Rock – Catholic Charities. Verkamp-Ruthven, a Charleston, Arkansas native, manages legal immigration programs in Springdale and Little Rock which provide services to low-income immigrants who may qualify for legal assistance. She leads the refugee program which resettles newly arrived individuals and families into the community. In the wake of the Afghanistan government’s collapse in 2021, her team assisted a total of 91 Afghan refugees in building new lives in Arkansas. Tune into this episode to witness the profound impact she makes on the lives of refugee families, and discover how she empowers these individuals to overcome obstacles and embrace new beginnings.
Mon, February 20, 2023
Arkansas FFA State Secretary Laykin Williamson wasn’t always familiar with agriculture, but after seeing her sister grow in FFA, she was inspired to follow in her footsteps. In her position, she helps develop members’ leadership skills while advocating for the agriculture industry. Learn more about Laykin, her story and FFA by listening to her episode and by checking out her profile on ComGroup.com.
Sun, February 19, 2023
Lauren Massey had no agriculture experience until she was placed in an agriculture class in high school. Through this class, she realized agriculture spanned beyond working on a farm. Now, as the Arkansas FFA State Vice President, she guides and supports Arkansas FFA members while advocating and supporting the agriculture industry. Learn more about Lauren, her position and FFA by listening to this episode and by checking out her profile on ComGroup.com.
Sat, February 18, 2023
Agriculture is in Arkansas FFA State President Reese Mitchell’s DNA. Although Reese is a fourth-generation Arkansas FFA state officer, she pursued the organization because of the vast agriculture and leadership opportunities it offered. In her position, Reese advocates for the agriculture industry by representing the association with government officials, business and industry leaders. Reese is optimistic about the next generation of agriculture leaders FFA is cultivating and hopes to better the lives of farmers and rural communities with a nontraditional agriculture career path. Listen to Reese’s episode to learn more about FFA and her position.
Fri, November 18, 2022
When Anna Beth Gorman accepted her position as the executive director at the Arkansas Women’s Foundation, there was enough money to pay her salary for two months. However, she was confident she could propel the organization to reach its potential. She succeeded. In her position, Anna Beth establishes projects and programs to help girls and women facing systemic issues through grants, educational resources and advancement opportunities that allow them to achieve economic mobility. Anna Beth’s passion for women and girls is rooted in her lifelong involvement in the Girl Scouts and as an alumna of Hollins University, an all-girls college. After earning a Master of Public Administration degree in nonprofit, public and organizational management from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Anna Beth learned how to make a difference at a larger scale. If you know an inspirational woman, nominate her to be featured on the #podcast: https://www.comgroup.com/women-in-industry-nomination
Fri, October 28, 2022
Michelle Wynn packed her bags and moved to Northwest Arkansas after graduating from the University of Central Arkansas without knowing what her career held, but then she volunteered for Child Care Aware NWA. Her boss emphasized the importance of early childhood education and community investment. Now, aside from being a superhero raising 10-year-old twin boys, Michelle is the co-director of Child Care Aware where she advocates for early child care providers and quality care. She also educates businesses to partner with providers to benefit working parents. In this WIN Podcast episode, Michelle discusses the necessity of accessible child care and indulges in conversation with Co-Host Carson Horn, a new father, in his search to find quality care for his daughter. Listen to Michelle’s episode to learn about the difference she makes in the early education industry.
Fri, October 14, 2022
Creshelle Nash, M.D., M.P.H., C.H.I.E, leads Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield's efforts to address health disparities in Arkansas. As the medical director for health equity and programs, she advocates for Arkansans facing health inequities. Dr. Nash, a University of Maryland School of Medicine alumna, grew disturbed while practicing. Listen to Dr. Creshelle Nash’s episode to learn about her professional journey and impact on Arkansas’ health equity
Fri, September 23, 2022
Carla Gibson knew she was destined to work in nonprofits after earning degrees from the University of Nebraska – Omaha and Bellevue University. Her career began on the service provision side of nonprofits, but now as the vice president of programs at REACH Healthcare Foundation, she advances high-quality, affordable health care in the Kansas City area. In her position, Carla focuses on grantmaking and philanthropy and capitalizes on relationships with the community and local organizations. “We can’t do our job without building relationships with and giving the money out to our grantee partners,” said Carla. “I always tell people philanthropy is almost 100% about relationships and building them.” Carla and her team piloted Centering Black Voices in 2020, an initiative providing resources, professional development and networking opportunities for Black-led organizations. Centering Black Voices aims to remove barriers, be responsive and increase partnership with the Black community. “There is constant learning. We are going to continue to build a network. We are going to have the community practice,” said Carla. “Investment in the community and increased investment and increased partnership, those are definitely outcomes.” Listen to Carla’s episode to learn more about her professional journey and Centering Black Voices.
Fri, September 16, 2022
Marquita Little Numan became a family counselor after graduating from Hendrix College. After seeing many clients continuously struggle, Marquita realized systemic change was essential. This fueled her to find a different way to make an impact, so she enrolled in the Clinton School of Public Service to understand how to ignite long-term change through advocacy, policy and philanthropy. Now, as the senior policy director at the Alliance for Early Success, Marquita uses her education and determination to make a difference. The Alliance for Early Success works with organizations across the country to advance policy surrounding early childhood, impacting children and families. In her position, Marquita manages a portfolio of grants, collaborates with advocacy organizations at state and national levels, and advises states and organizations on how to advance policy. Marquita believes creating a network of people who share common values to ensure children’s needs are being met is vital to making change. One way the Alliance does this is by connecting states with similar policy issues and hosting webinars to bring state and national organizations together. “It is really important we center the lived experience of people,” said Marquita. “Each person, their contribution and their voice matters.” Marquita credited many women with influencing her life, including her mother and Dr. Creshelle Nash. Their mentorship demonstrated leadership, determination and compassion, said Marquita. Aside from her career, Marquita is dedicated to her family. Marquita, an Arkansas native, resides in Little Rock with her husband and daughter. Together, they enjoy traveling and finding the best local gluten-free restaurants.
Fri, August 19, 2022
Jennifer Martinez Belt dedicates her life to community service. As Director of Development for the Peel Compton Foundation, Jennifer connects the community of Bentonville, Arkansas through nature, education, recreation and preservation. She heads the organization’s philanthropy, marketing, events and customer service efforts.
Fri, July 08, 2022
Natalie Kovarik was raised on a ranch in Montana, and after being a full-time pharmacist for several years, she found her passion in agriculture and pioneered her own clothing brand Ag is Not the Problem, donating part of the proceeds to Agriculture in the classroom.
Fri, June 24, 2022
Dot2Dot Consulting Owner and Principal Geania Dickey is dedicated to improving the early education system in Arkansas and across the nation. In her role, she builds effective systems and stronger resources to benefit children and their families. Tune in to this week’s episode to learn more about Geania and the impact she makes on children’s lives.
Fri, June 17, 2022
Madison Travis, a Southern Arkansas University alumna, grew up with a passion to work in the agriculture industry. As the crop insurance servicing agent at Rabo AgriFinance, she educates clients about federal crop insurance options to enhance their risk management strategies. Tune in to learn more about Madison and her story in ag.
Fri, June 03, 2022
While studying agriculture business at Arkansas State University, Sydney Belew became determined to work for AgHeritage Farm Credit Services. As AgHeritage’s customer specialist, Sydney assists loan officers and supports customers to secure loans in rural and agricultural markets. Learn more about Sydney and her agricultural journey in this week's episode.
Fri, May 27, 2022
In February, three current or former Arkansas FFA Association state officers participated in the WIN Podcast. As a token of appreciation for their participation, ComGroup donated $300 to the Arkansas FFA Foundation. Foundation Executive, Jennifer Cook, earmarked ComGroup’s donation to honor the late Leslie Morelock Roye – a pioneer for girls in the Arkansas FFA Association – by commemorating her corduroy jacket in the Blue Jacket Society, which honors alumni members by showcasing their FFA jackets at Camp Couchdale. “There are some people that make such a profound impact on this world that they're not ever really going to be forgotten,” Jennifer said. “I think that's going to be a neat way to remember her.” Learn more about Leslie’s story by listening to the podcast today.
Fri, May 13, 2022
Meet Mischa Martin, the Director of the Division of Children and Family Services. Mischa developed a passion for helping others at a young age and now, as an attorney, oversees child abuse and neglect cases. Tune in as this UA Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law graduate shares more of her story.
Fri, April 08, 2022
In March, the Arkansas Women in Ag (AWIA) held their annual conference in Little Rock. Five women active within the organization take a deep look into the 2022 conference on the latest episode of WIN. Listen to the podcast to learn more about the impact the organization has on the Arkansas agriculture industry.
Fri, April 01, 2022
After graduating from Henderson State University, Randi Metcalf became a social worker for Carelink, which provides in-home services, information, legal and medical assistance for the elderly and their loved ones. Now, 14 years later, Randi is Carelink’s chief operating officer, where she supervises over 200 employees each day. Listen to her story to learn more.
Fri, March 25, 2022
Heather Larkin, a graduate of William H. Bowen School of Law, is dedicated to improving Arkansas. As President and CEO of the Arkansas Community Foundation, she connects Arkansans with resources to build stronger communities. Learn more about Heather, by listening to her story now!
Fri, March 18, 2022
Tabitha McNulty knew she wanted to become a lawyer after visiting a courtroom in kindergarten. She accomplished that goal in 2005 after graduating from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock’s Bowen School of Law. She now represents families of foster children in termination cases at the Arkansas Commission of Parent Counsel in Little Rock. Learn more about Tabitha and the work she does for children and families by listening to her story.
Fri, March 11, 2022
While studying at Auburn University, Michelle Bufkin Horton fell in love with the cattle industry. As the membership and communications director of the Arkansas Cattlemen’s Association, Michelle works to bridge the gap between producers and consumers.
Fri, March 04, 2022
Inspired by her mother, Melanie Berman’s passion is public service. As the program director of Arkansas Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC), Melanie gives back to her community. She equips small businesses with the tools and expertise they need to compete for and win government contracts. Melanie, a graduate of University of Arkansas at Little Rock, is inspired to work in the female-driven Public Service Industry and believes the secret to success is to surround yourself with great people.
Fri, February 25, 2022
On this week’s episode of ComGroup’s Women in Industry Podcast, hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn are joined by Anna Mathis of Mountain Home, Arkansas. Anna is a third year student at the University of Arkansas studying Agricultural Communications and Agricultural Leadership. Anna recently retired from an extensive involvement in the National FFA Organization serving as a Chapter, State, and National Officer. Anna intends to pursue opportunities and careers in the realm of rural development and community engagement. Learn more about Anna and her agricultural journey in this week's episode.
Fri, February 18, 2022
On this week’s episode of ComGroup’s Women in Industry Podcast, hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn are joined by Kisia Weeks of White Hall, Arkansas. As the Agriculture Education instructor and FFA Advisor at White Hall High School, Kisia creates hands-on learning experiences leading two Agriculture Mechanics classes that help students develop skills in welding, wood working, electrical engineering, construction, small engine repair, and plumbing. In addition to Kisia’s role as a teacher, she advises the White Hall FFA Chapter. This includes guiding and mentoring students in a way that enhances their classwork outside of the classroom. Tune in to hear Kisia as she shares her passion for Agricultural Education.
Fri, February 18, 2022
Josie Kelly has dreamed of being an FFA State Officer ever since she saw her sister, a past state officer and her biggest role model, on stage delivering her retiring address. Josie is the current Arkansas FFA President and a current student at the University of Arkansas. Since being in FFA, Josie’s confidence has grown. She hopes to influence others with leadership qualities, including authenticity, confidence and communication. Tune in to discover who Josie Kelly is and hear her agriculture journey.
Mon, February 14, 2022
On this week’s episode of ComGroup’s Women in Industry Podcast, hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn are joined by Brooke Bradford of Shirley, Arkansas. Brooke is a current college student and former Arkansas FFA President and National Officer Candidate. Brooke is a current sophomore studying ag communications at the University of Arkansas with two minors in journalism and event planning. Discover who Brooke Bradford is and learn more about her journey in part two.
Fri, February 11, 2022
On this week’s episode of ComGroup’s Women in Industry Podcast, hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn are joined by Brooke Bradford of Shirley, Arkansas. Brooke is a current college student and former Arkansas FFA President and National Officer Candidate. Brooke is a current sophomore studying ag communications at the University of Arkansas with two minors in journalism and event planning. Discover who Brooke Bradford is and learn more about her journey in part one.
Fri, February 04, 2022
On this week’s episode of ComGroup’s Women in Industry Podcast, hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn are joined by Allyssa Andrews of Wynne, Arkansas. Allyssa is the Vice President of the Arkansas FFA Eastern District and in that role, she facilitates camps in the summer, plans conferences through the year and works with first-year FFA members. On top of that she is also a full-time college student at Southern Arkansas University, where she is studying agriculture education in hopes of becoming an ag teacher. Tune in to hear Allyssa share her story of why she joined FFA and how she works with other women in FFA leadership to make an impact.
Fri, January 28, 2022
Listen to Bailey Faulkner share her personal journey from politics to non-profit mission work and the inspirational work Ozark Mission Project does in and around our community. Bailey lives by the idea that listening and learning from others is how we continue to grow.
Fri, January 21, 2022
Tracy Long, Vice President Communications, ABB’s North American Motion Business Area shares her inspiring story leading a group of storytellers who promote ABB’s products and solutions to customers. Tracy offers her insights being a woman in the manufacturing industry and how she always takes the job nobody else wants.
Fri, January 14, 2022
Jenna Martin, a young farmer from Arkansas, shares her inspiring story as the adopted daughter of two dedicated parents who have instilled a love for agriculture in her heart. Jenna offers a glimpse into her life as a young woman whose professional journey has led her back to the farm to take over the family business.
Fri, March 19, 2021
On this week’s episode, hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn are joined by Jennifer Cook of Wooster, Arkansas. As the first Executive Director of the Arkansas FFA Foundation, Cook’s primary responsibility is to raise financial support for the Arkansas State FFA by strengthening relationships with industries and individuals who desire to support agricultural education and the FFA. Her message is clear: the only way to secure a sustainable future is to invest in agriculture education. Listen in to learn about the important role FFA plays in the success of the Arkansas and US ag industries, plus hear how Cook traded in her pom-poms to follow her passion and start her career in agriculture.
Fri, March 12, 2021
On this week’s episode of ComGroup’s Women in Industry Podcast, hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn are joined by Rana Leanne Dowdy of Batesville, Arkansas. As High School Liaison at the University of Arkansas Community College in Batesville and owner/operator of RDH Farms, Rana is a busy woman. Still, she finds time to raise her daughter, imparting encouragement and her ranching knowledge as often as possible. Tune in to hear Rana share her emotional story about how she became involved in agriculture.
Fri, March 05, 2021
On this week’s episode of ComGroup’s Women in Industry Podcast, hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn are joined by Monica Paskewitz of Melbourne, Arkansas. As a District Conservationist for the United States Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, Monica helps farmers and ranchers make important management decisions for their farming operations. Focusing primarily on resource conservation, Monica advises landowners on how to be good stewards of their property and meet their production needs. Tune in to hear Monica speak about the hurdles she experienced in gaining the trust of her clients and peers as an aspiring professional woman in the ag industry.
Fri, February 26, 2021
On this week’s episode, hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn are joined by Jeanie Rowbotham of Clarksville, Arkansas. Growing up an extremely shy child, Rowbotham’s mother encouraged her to join 4-H around the age of 12 knowing her involvement would instill confidence in her, as well as a love for agriculture. Years later, Rowbotham would earn a degree in agri-business from Arkansas Tech University and in ag-economics from the University of Arkansas. For the past 14 years, Rowbotham has been giving back to the organization that inspired her, serving as a 4-H agent and advocate for local youth with an interest in agriculture. Listen to this week’s Women in Industry podcast to hear Rowbotham share her story as an advocate for agriculture.
Fri, February 19, 2021
On this week's episode, hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn are joined by Taylor Wiseman of Vilonia, Arkansas. Currently, Taylor lives and works in DC as a staffer for the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry. Prior to moving to Washington, Taylor acquired her master’s degree in agricultural economics, from the University of Arkansas after first serving as a National FFA officer. Today, her passion for agriculture continues and has guided her to choose a career focused on serving those in the industry she loves. Listen to this week’s Women in Industry podcast to hear Taylor share her story as an advocate for agriculture.
Fri, February 12, 2021
On this week’s episode, hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn are joined by Lindsey Holtzclaw of Huntsville, Arkansas. As Communications Specialist for Farm Credit of Western Arkansas, Holtzclaw’s favorite part of her job is getting to tell the story of agriculture. She also supports the 24 branch offices of Farm Credit of Western Arkansas, which cover forty-one western Arkansas counties. Being very involved in the ag industry, Holtzclaw serves in multiple roles. Her new favorite title though is “Mom,” which she earned just recently after welcoming her first son, John Monroe. Holtzclaw was raised by her mother along with her grandparents, on a small cow-calf operation in Damascus, Arkansas. Today, she and her husband serve as local members of various county associations, including Farm Bureau, Arkansas Cattleman’s Association, and Arkansas Women in Agriculture. Listen in to this week’s Women in Industry podcast to hear Holtzclaw share her passion for the ag industry.
Fri, January 08, 2021
On this week’s episode, hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn are joined by Sunni Wise of Bismarck, Arkansas. Sunni serves as a Program Advisor at the Arkansas Department of Education in the Division of Career and Technical Education while also serving as the Arkansas FFA Executive Secretary. Sunni supports more than 50 agricultural education programs, and she helps provide resources and professional development opportunities for teachers all across the state. As Arkansas FFA Executive Secretary, she manages the Arkansas FFA state officer teams and works to develop and design conferences and curriculum. Listen in to this week’s episode for a glimpse into the busy life of Sunni Wise and how effective communication can promote success in organizations like the FFA.
Thu, December 17, 2020
On this week’s episode, hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn are joined by CJ Elumbaugh of Batesville, Arkansas. As the owner and contractor at White River Custom Pools and rancher at C3R Farms, Elumbaugh oversees the day-to-day operations for her business and farm. In her role, CJ oversees all marketing, sales, financing and contracting functions at her business. Elumbaugh is just one of our many Women in Industry that feels the opportunity is endless for women in the modern construction and ag industries. Listen in to hear CJ share some of her practical wisdom in business, leadership, and balancing life gained from her experiences on the ranch and in the saddle.
Thu, December 10, 2020
On this week’s episode, hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn are joined by Dr. Jackie Lee of Clarksville, Arkansas. As the research station’s first female director, Lee focuses on producer education, research and specialty crop variety development. In addition to her role as a Director and Associate professor, Lee is a daughter, granddaughter, wife, mother, foster parent, inset enthusiast, lover of local Mexican fare, and a leader. Listen in to learn why extension research is critically important to the success of the ag industry, and how Lee balances being a wife and mother with her role overseeing operations at the fruit research station.
Tue, December 01, 2020
On this week's episode, Jacy Lippoldt of Kingfisher, Oklahoma joins hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn to offer a look behind the scenes of building Native Acres Meat Company. In addition to co-owning this growing direct-to-consumer beef company, Jacy also works as a Walmart National Account Manager for Pabst Brewing Company. Listen to this week’s episode to hear how Jacy finds time to manage it all from her family’s farm.
Mon, November 30, 2020
On this week’s episode, Kelly Peebles of McCrory, Arkansas joins hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn to give us an inside look at her life on Shawn Peebles Farm, LLC. As the operations manager, Kelly works behind the scenes to assure things like the farm’s organic certification and global gap food safety certification are current. Additionally, Kelly serves as the manager of human resources. Listen in to hear Kelly explain how crucial her role is and how Shawn Peebles Farm, LLC. is overcoming challenges brought on by COVID-19.
Thu, November 19, 2020
On this week’s episode, hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn are joined by Amy Wills of Jonesboro, Arkansas. As a digital marketing consultant, Wills assists her clients with all aspects of their digital media marketing including website development, social media management and digital campaigns. Listen in to hear Amy explain why having a digital marketing and social media presence is so important in the ag industry, and learn how Wills is navigating her business through challenges related to COVID-19.
Thu, November 12, 2020
On this week’s episode, hosts Lisa Van Hook and Carson Horn are joined by Meg Harrington of Sheridan, Arkansas. As a Territory Sales Manager for Boehringer Ingelhiem Animal Health U.S., Harrington routinely calls on veterinarians, animal health suppliers and producers to educate them on animal health issues within the industry and provide them scientific data to help them make informed decisions about their herd health programs. In her experience as a woman in the ag industry, Harrington explains how it used to be more difficult for women to gain the trust and respect they deserved from their peers. However, she says times are a changing. Listen in to learn why pharmaceuticals and preventative health management is so important to the livestock industry. Plus, hear Harrington’s secrets to success and how keeping a curious mind is essential to becoming a leader in your field.
Fri, November 06, 2020
Carol Johnson sits down to share her story as a woman working in the Agriculture industry. In her role as Chief Development Officer for the Educational Foundation of Alpha Gamma Rho, Carol develops and cultivates donor relationships to solicit and secure funds that support the mission and purpose of the world’s only agricultural Fraternity to better and broaden agriculture and agricultural leadership.
Tue, November 03, 2020
The Communications Group has been in business for more than 30 years. During that time, we have taken note of the growing number of leadership roles, and the influence women have in the industries we serve and celebrate their efforts and achievements. This series is meant to honor women who have inspired action, achieved success, excelled in their field and encouraged the generations of women to follow in their footsteps.
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