What does it actually take to lead 30,000 members across the state? In this episode of Beyond the Gate, Jamie sits down with newly elected Missouri State FFA President Ellie Samek. Ellie opens up about her roots on a Southwest Missouri dairy farm, but this isn't your average farm-kid story. 🐄

She pulls back the curtain on the grueling, multi-day state officer selection process and shares a wild, unexpected side project: partnering with a local zoo to build a national blueprint for raptor rehabilitation. From winning four consecutive state titles to a massive plot twist on the day she found out she won the presidency, Ellie shares what true leadership looks like for the next generation. 🚜