In this week’s episode, Whitney sits down with photographer and creative, Cade Childers of C3, to talk about carving out a career in the livestock marketing world—without growing up in ag or holding an ag comm degree. Cade shares how he went from a sports family and a biochemistry/microbiology path aimed at medical school to running C3, a creative business based in Edmond, Oklahoma, that travels the country photographing show pigs and building marketing pieces for ag operations. They dive into the realities behind the backdrop shots: the pressure of picturing high-dollar pigs, learning Adobe as a self-taught creative, setting boundaries in a 24/7 industry, and why networking and consistency may matter more than the initials behind your name. HIGHLIGHTS: How Cade went from “sports kid” to first-generation showman and eventually a full-time creative in the pig world Why he walked away from a planned career in medicine after earning degrees in biochemistry and microbiology The pros and cons of being completely self-taught in design and photography (and his honest take on ag comm degrees) What makes a strong baby pig or backdrop photo, and how tiny details in feet, angles, and heads change everything The balance between free work, paid work, and knowing when it’s time to start valuing your time differently Burnout, boundaries, and why your phone doesn’t need to be on 24/7—even in the livestock industry How mentors and networking (from Dusty Oldenburg to Jackie Lackey) helped shape C3 Cade’s advice for young creatives trying to find their lane and build a name in a crowded space CONNECT: Follow C3 / Cade Childers Follow Club Cultivate on Instagram

In this week’s episode, Whitney sits down with Lexi Marek Beeler—owner of L & B Consulting and founder of Hey Sister—to dig into the reality of social media and entrepreneurship in agriculture: choosing platforms that fit your goals, building a brand without burning out, and running a business from a rural main street. Lexi shares how an eighth-grade smartphone and a family show-pig operation led to running social for major ag accounts, why she left salaried roles to start her own shop, and how moving home to Iowa reshaped her work, systems, and definition of success. HIGHLIGHTS: Personal brand foundations: what you stand for, and giving yourself permission to evolve Platforms that matter (and why ten posts/month can beat posting daily) Practical consistency: monthly content calendars, simple systems, and realistic goals Stories vs. posts vs. reels: when face-on-camera wins—and when a photo is enough Email lists for ag businesses: why you should own your audience (even with limited time) Freelance math: “know your numbers,” land two anchor clients, then jump Agency, in-house, or solo? Picking paths, setting boundaries, and protecting the joy Small town ≠ small thinking: building community, collaboration, and real relationships Whether you’re running a seed-stock page from the farm office, freelancing for ag brands, or debating a leap into solo work, this conversation is packed with practical steps—and permission to keep it simple. CONNECT:Follow Lexi | L&B Consulting | Hey SisterFollow Club Cultivate 

In this week’s episode, Whitney sits down with Dr. Ruth Inman—founder of Ruth Inman Creative Services and soon-to-be Inman Collective Marketing Group—to talk about building a modern ag marketing agency from the ground up — from strategy and brand development to the business skills creatives need to earn a seat at the table. Ruth shares how a career spanning higher ed, extension communications, and agency leadership prepared her to launch and grow a full-service shop serving agribusiness and mission-driven organizations—and why aligning work with family priorities ultimately drove her leap into entrepreneurship. HIGHLIGHTS: How Ruth went from teaching ag communications at Oklahoma State to leading digital and paid media—and finally launching her own agency The rebrand to Inman Collective Marketing Group and what’s changing as she hires and scales in 2025 Undergrad vs. master’s vs. PhD: what each truly teaches (how vs. why) and when an MBA might make more sense Agency, in-house, or freelance? Why Ruth’s answer is “yes—do all three” to accelerate learning and leadership Relationships and reliability in a niche industry: why trust and follow-through outrun any portfolio Differentiating your services: knowing what you do well—and when to collaborate with specialists Practical upskilling without grad school: curating feeds, targeted workshops, and systems that compound Ruth’s take on risk, timing, and building a business that fits real life (kids, show pigs, and all) Whether you’re a creative in the ag space, a small business owner, or weighing grad school vs. real-world experience, this conversation is packed with clarity, next steps, and encouragement. CONNECT: Follow Ruth Inman Creative: Instagram | Website Follow Club Cultivate: Instagram

In this week’s episode, Whitney sits down with Robyn Amthauer, owner of Stella Sutton Design, to talk about the creative side of the livestock industry — from ad design and branding to building a business rooted in agriculture and authenticity. Robyn shares how she turned her creative curiosity into a full-time career after years in corporate marketing, and how she balances business, motherhood, and managing a successful club lamb operation with her family in Iowa. HIGHLIGHTS: How Robyn went from corporate marketing at Cargill to running her own design agency The value of relationships and consistency when building a brand in agriculture Her honest perspective on pricing, creativity, and burnout in freelance work The tools and programs she swears by (and her thoughts on the Canva vs. Adobe debate) How she finds inspiration, blends her family life with her career, and keeps creativity alive Whether you’re a creative in the ag space, a small business owner, or someone looking to take the leap from corporate to entrepreneurship, this conversation is packed with wisdom and relatability. CONNECT: Follow Stella Sutton Design: Instagram | https://www.stellasuttondesign.com/ | Facebook Follow Club Cultivate: Instagram

DESCRIPTION: Whitney sits down with Brandi Buzzard to talk about building an honest, effective voice in agriculture—online and off. From a hobby ranch upbringing to leading communications at national breed associations to full-time entrepreneurship, Brandi shares how she found her lane: educating grocery shoppers about how food is raised, telling better stories, and standing firm in science. We dig into content strategy, brand partnerships, and what “balance” really means when family, rodeo, and ranch life are also on the calendar. HIGHLIGHTS: Finding your voice: letters to the editor, early blogging, and why storytelling beats stats alone Advocacy vs. “influencing”: keeping science, integrity, and audience trust at the center Platforms with purpose: Facebook for long-form stories, Instagram for trends, blog + AcresTV for depth Content ideas: remixing non-ag trends, writing for consumers, and handling hot-button topics with facts Metrics that matter: views, engagement, growth, and honest readouts for brand partners Brand deals without selling out: only promoting products you actually use and believe in Real life logistics: planning (loosely), seasons of work, and Brandi’s “glass balls vs. rubber balls” framework CONNECT: Follow Brandi: Instagram @brandibuzzard • Blog/FB: Buzzard’s Beat • Watch on AcresTV Follow Club Cultivate: Instagram @clubcultivate  Like this episode? Share it, tag us, and leave a review to help more ag creatives find the show.

DESCRIPTION: Whitney sits down with Kara Dadson of Dadson Farms to talk about turning real barn life into impactful content. Kara shares how posting showmanship videos to sell pigs evolved into educating the public, helping new families level up, and building a fast-growing multi-platform presence. We dig into what to post, where to post, and how to keep it positive, useful, and consistent—without burning out. HIGHLIGHTS: Starting in 2020 and the first viral hit (why showmanship content resonates) Educating non-ag audiences and empowering beginners in the ring Content pillars, trends, and cross-posting (TikTok, IG, Facebook, YouTube, Snapchat) Dealing with platform quirks: music rights, originality flags, muting, and fake accounts Phone vs. camera (stability, lenses, gimbals) and real-world capture tips at shows Editing flow (CapCut), storage headaches, and batching vs. posting in the moment Monetization basics on TikTok/YouTube and what “the algorithm” really feels like Mindset: consistency over perfection, finding inspiration (even from comments), and staying positive CONNECT: Follow Dadson Farms on TikTok/Instagram/Facebook/YouTube Follow Club Cultivate: @clubcultivate  Love the episode? Share it, tag us, and leave a review to help more ag creatives find the show.

Episode 11: Building a Creative Business with Emma Masur of Lookout Co In this episode of the Club Cultivate Podcast, Whitney Whitaker sits down with Emma Masur, designer and founder of Lookout Co, to talk all things branding, graphic design, and client experience. Emma shares her journey from job hunting during the pandemic to building a thriving design studio, and why branding is more than just a logo. We dive into: The difference between branding and logo design Why client experience is the foundation of a strong creative business How TikTok and social media became her #1 lead source Transparency in pricing and attracting the right clients Advice for creatives on overcoming fear and just starting Whether you’re a graphic designer, creative entrepreneur, or someone curious about building a brand, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration. 🎧 Listen now and learn how to start, scale, and sustain your creative business.

In this episode, Whitney Whitaker interviews Megan Blankenship, a prominent figure in livestock photography and the owner of Next Level Images. Megan shares her journey from a shy child on a family farm to a successful photographer in the livestock industry. She discusses the importance of passion, building relationships, and the challenges of balancing work and family life. Megan emphasizes the significance of creating positive experiences for clients and the value of teamwork in her business. She also offers insights into bidding for shows, opportunities for aspiring photographers, and the art of livestock photography. The conversation concludes with advice for creatives on pursuing their passions and avoiding burnout.

In this episode of the Club Cultivate podcast, Whitney interviews Jennifer Shike, the editor and brand leader at Farm Journal. Jennifer shares her journey in agriculture and writing, emphasizing the importance of internships and programs like 4-H and FFA in shaping her career. She discusses her current role at Farm Journal, where she focuses on storytelling across various platforms, including print, podcasts, and social media. Jennifer highlights the significance of authenticity in writing and the role of analytics in content creation. The conversation also covers the dynamics of teamwork and collaboration in the creative process, as well as tips for aspiring writers to find their voice and connect with their audience. In this conversation, Jennifer Shike shares her insights on productivity, work-life balance, and the importance of networking in the agricultural communications field. She discusses how to maximize productivity by identifying personal peak work hours, the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family life, and the value of engaging with professional organizations like the Livestock Publications Council. Jennifer also offers advice for young professionals, emphasizing the importance of listening, storytelling, and pursuing passions. She concludes with book and podcast recommendations that have influenced her personal and professional growth.

In this episode of the Club Cultivate podcast, Whitney interviews Allison Burenheide, who shares her unique career journey from her undergraduate studies at Texas A&M to her impactful roles at Merck Animal Health, including her experience moving abroad to the UK. The conversation explores themes of personal branding, the value of graduate education, the importance of networking, and the challenges and growth that come from stepping outside of one's comfort zone. Allison emphasizes the significance of adaptability, cultural awareness, and strategic thinking in both personal and professional contexts, providing valuable insights for listeners navigating their own career paths. In this conversation, Allison Burenheide shares her experiences in merging teams, her current role in a startup, and insights into marketing strategies. She emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs, being adaptable in marketing approaches, and leveraging vendor partnerships. Additionally, she offers valuable advice for young professionals about broadening their opportunities and not being afraid to take risks in their careers.

Episode #7: The Art of Storytelling in Ag Communications with Miranda Reiman Description:In this episode, Whitney sits down with Miranda Reiman, a seasoned ag writer and communications professional at Angus Media. From her early days at Certified Angus Beef to managing a full-time career and motherhood, Miranda shares insights into: How writing and storytelling have evolved in ag media Tips for interviewing, listening, and crafting meaningful narratives The importance of versatility in communication roles Navigating work-life balance in a high-demand industry Internships and how to stand out in your application Her go-to books, podcasts, and lifelong learning resources Tune in now and take away practical strategies to strengthen your writing, interviewing, and communication skills—no matter where you are in your journey. 🔗 Resources & Links: Miranda's Book Recommendations On Writing by Stephen King Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert 📌 Connect with Club Cultivate: Instagram: @clubcultivate ⭐️ Love this episode? Share it with a friend, leave a review, or tag us while you listen! Every bit helps us grow the community. #ClubCultivate #MadeToMake

In this episode of the Club Cultivate podcast, Whitney interviews Clancy Gunn, who shares her journey from a native Colorado girl to a successful marketing professional at Vermeer. Clancy discusses her early experiences in college, her pivotal role at the National Western Stock Show, and the creation of a media internship program that has helped many students launch their careers. She emphasizes the importance of personal development, self-awareness, and the value of mentorship in the marketing field. Clancy also shares insights on balancing freelance work with a full-time job and the significance of building relationships in the industry. In this engaging conversation, Clancy and Whitney discuss the evolution of their professional journeys, the importance of building genuine relationships, and the impact of kindness and hard work in achieving success. They reflect on their experiences in the agriculture industry, share insights on leveraging data for business growth, and explore innovative marketing strategies. The discussion emphasizes the value of personal development, effective communication, and the significance of networking in today's fast-paced world.

In this episode of the Club Cultivate podcast, Whitney interviews LaurieAnn Kuntz, an accountant specializing in helping creative entrepreneurs manage their finances. LaurieAnn shares her journey from traditional accounting to creating a firm that focuses on understanding and supporting business owners. The conversation covers essential accounting terms, the importance of hiring the right financial professionals, and practical tips for managing finances, especially for those with inconsistent cash flow. LaurieAnn emphasizes the foundational role of financial understanding in business success and offers insights into building a sustainable financial strategy. In this conversation, LoriAnn Kuntz and Whitney discuss the importance of financial management for entrepreneurs, focusing on how to pay oneself consistently, the nuances of business income, and the significance of setting personal financial goals. They also explore the services offered by Profit Priority, emphasizing the need for clear communication and support in bookkeeping and financial planning. The discussion wraps up with book recommendations and personal mantras that guide their entrepreneurial journeys. Learn more about LoriAnn Kuntz and the Profit Priority team here: https://www.profitpriority.co/ 

In this episode of the Club Cultivate podcast, Whitney interviews Jace Tarbell, a creative entrepreneur who shares his journey from a pre-vet student to a successful graphic designer and business owner. Jace discusses the challenges and mindset shifts he experienced while building his business, the importance of finding one's unique style, and the value of community and collaboration in the creative industry. He emphasizes the need for aspiring creatives to have faith in themselves, learn from failures, and charge appropriately for their services.

In this episode of the Club Cultivate podcast, Whitney interviews Tori Egger, a Western photographer who shares her journey from a young age in the agriculture world to becoming a successful photographer. Tori discusses the importance of building a portfolio, finding a niche, and the strategic use of social media to grow her brand. She emphasizes the value of education and mentorship in the photography community and advocates for a collaborative mindset where everyone can succeed together. Tori also shares insights on pricing, the significance of creating shareable content, and her philosophy of inclusivity in the industry. In this conversation, Tori Egger shares her journey in photography, emphasizing the importance of finding one's unique style through trial and error. She discusses strategic approaches to photography, including understanding the brands you want to work with and tailoring your style accordingly. Tori provides tactical tips for improvement, such as using Pinterest for inspiration and the significance of practicing regularly. She also delves into pricing strategies, the value of mentorship, and the importance of personality in building a successful creative business. The conversation highlights the power of community and the resources available for aspiring photographers.

In this episode of the Club Cultivate podcast, Whitney interviews Heidi and Charles Anderson, the founders of Legacy Livestock Imaging. They discuss their journey in photography, the organic growth of their business, and the importance of storytelling in capturing the essence of livestock shows. The conversation delves into technical advice for aspiring photographers, the significance of building connections, and the value of internships in the industry. They emphasize the need for passion, authenticity, and hard work in achieving success in photography and livestock.

In this episode of the Club Cultivate podcast, Whitney interviews Taylor Belle Matheny, Director of Communications for the American Hereford Association. Taylor shares her journey from growing up on a farm in Kentucky to pursuing degrees in agriculture communications and animal science. She discusses her experiences in graduate school, the importance of internships, and the value of networking in building relationships within the industry. Taylor also delves into her role at the American Hereford Association, where she manages various communications tasks, emphasizing the balance between quality and quantity in content creation, particularly in video production. In this conversation, Taylor Belle Matheny discusses the evolving landscape of video in branding, emphasizing the importance of high-quality content over quantity. She shares insights on creating a cohesive brand identity and the challenges of maintaining consistency across various platforms. Reflecting on her college experiences, she encourages embracing opportunities and continuous learning in a fast-paced industry. The discussion also touches on innovative approaches to education and training in the creative field.

I know you spend a lot of time in the car chasing those white lines or sitting behind your computer creating something awesome—that’s why the CC Podcast is designed to bring you real conversations with the best in marketing, communications, and the agricultural industry. Each episode is packed with expert insights, practical strategies, and stories from professionals who’ve been where you are. Whether you're looking to grow your career, sharpen your skills, or find inspiration, tune in weekly and take the next step toward your goals—anytime, anywhere.