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In this episode of the Best Better Podcast, we’re sitting down with Lauren, the Southeast District Member Engagement Officer, to talk all things 4-H! Lauren shares her 4-H journey, what member engagement means to her, and how she hopes to help more members get involved and take advantage of the opportunities 4-H has to offer. From making new connections to stepping outside your comfort zone, this episode is all about building community, finding your place in 4-H, and making the most of every opportunity. Tune in to get to know Lauren and discover how you can get more connected in 4-H!

NC State and N.C. A&T State universities are collectively committed to positive action to secure equal opportunity and prohibit discrimination and harassment regardless of age, color, disability, family and marital status, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, political beliefs, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation and veteran status. NC State, N.C. A&T, USDA and local governments cooperating.

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In this episode of the Best Better Podcast, we sit down with our new agriculture agent, Rachel Tarkington, to get to know the person behind the role. Rachel shares her background, what led her to join Cooperative Extension, and her excitement about serving the community in Lenoir County.

We talk about her goals, the opportunities she sees for local agriculture, and what she hopes to bring to farmers, families, and youth programs in the area. Whether you’re involved in agriculture or just curious about what Extension does, this episode offers a great introduction to Rachel and a look ahead at what’s to come.

NC State and N.C. A&T State universities are collectively committed to positive action to secure equal opportunity and prohibit discrimination and harassment regardless of age, color, disability, family and marital status, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, political beliefs, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation and veteran status. NC State, N.C. A&T, USDA and local governments cooperating.

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In this episode of The Best Better Podcast, we sit down with leaders from Kinston Teens Jose Cartagena-Lanza, Jr. & Bridget Rouse for an inspiring conversation about community, collaboration, and creating opportunities for local youth.

We dive into what Kinston Teens is all about, the powerful outreach initiatives they lead, and the many ways young people can get involved. From leadership development to service projects and community engagement, this episode highlights how partnerships between 4-H and Kinston Teens can help build a stronger future for teens across our community.

Whether you’re a student, parent, volunteer, or community supporter, tune in to learn how we can work together to make the best better — right here at home.

NC State and N.C. A&T State universities are collectively committed to positive action to secure equal opportunity and prohibit discrimination and harassment regardless of age, color, disability, family and marital status, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, political beliefs, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation and veteran status. NC State, N.C. A&T, USDA and local governments cooperating.

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In this episode of The Best Better Podcast, we go In the Kitchen with Extension as Family & Consumer Sciences Agent Kelly Tyndall joins us to share a fun, easy pizza recipe and practical tips for building healthier eating habits.

We talk about how small changes in the kitchen can lead to big improvements in overall wellness, especially for teens and families. Plus, we highlight the impactful programs offered through North Carolina Cooperative Extension in Kinston and how they’re equipping the community with life skills that last far beyond the dinner table.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make healthy eating realistic, affordable, and enjoyable — this episode is for you.

NC State and N.C. A&T State universities are collectively committed to positive action to secure equal opportunity and prohibit discrimination and harassment regardless of age, color, disability, family and marital status, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, political beliefs, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation and veteran status. NC State, N.C. A&T, USDA and local governments cooperating.

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In this special episode of The Best Better Podcast, we sit down with students from Junior Leadership Lenoir (JLL) to talk about service, leadership, and community. After spending the day baking cookies for veterans and assisted living homes, the students reflect on why community involvement is so important and how small acts of kindness can have a big impact. Tune in to hear youth voices share what it means to give back and serve others.

NC State and N.C. A&T State universities are collectively committed to positive action to secure equal opportunity and prohibit discrimination and harassment regardless of age, color, disability, family and marital status, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, political beliefs, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation and veteran status. NC State, N.C. A&T, USDA and local governments cooperating.

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Things are getting a little spooky in this special Halloween edition of The Best Better Podcast! Join hosts Joel and Abbigail as they sit down with Paige Petticrew, Lenoir County Horticulture Agent, and Kaelyn Lane, Lenoir County Agriculture Agent, for a frightfully fun conversation about what’s growing in the dark — both in our fields and in our careers.

From creepy-crawly critters to mysterious plants, the group digs into the eerie side of agriculture while sharing how each of them found their path to NC Cooperative Extension. You’ll hear stories about their journeys, what inspired them to serve their communities, and how their work helps things grow — even when it’s a little spooky outside!

Tune in for laughs, a touch of Halloween spirit, and a behind-the-scenes look at the passion that drives your local Extension agents. 🌾👻

NC State and N.C. A&T State universities are collectively committed to positive action to secure equal opportunity and prohibit discrimination and harassment regardless of age, color, disability, family and marital status, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, political beliefs, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation and veteran status. NC State, N.C. A&T, USDA and local governments cooperating.

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In this episode of The Best Better Podcast, hosts Joel and Abigail sit down with NC State University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Dean, Dr. Garey Fox, and NC State Extension Director of 4-H, Dr. David Monks. Together, they dive into the future of agriculture, youth leadership, and the vital role 4-H plays in shaping tomorrow’s leaders. From supporting young people in their communities to preparing the next generation for careers in agriculture and beyond, this conversation is filled with insight, inspiration, and a vision for the future of youth development in North Carolina.

NC State and N.C. A&T State universities are collectively committed to positive action to secure equal opportunity and prohibit discrimination and harassment regardless of age, color, disability, family and marital status, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, political beliefs, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation and veteran status. NC State, N.C. A&T, USDA and local governments cooperating.

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In this inspiring episode of The Best Better Podcast, Lenoir County 4-H’ers Lamonie Taylor and Sanaa Thompson sit down with NC Congressman Don Davis for a powerful conversation about leadership, service, and the role young people play in shaping the future.

From Congressman Davis’s personal journey into public service to Lamonie and Sanaa’s own 4-H experiences, this discussion explores how courage, action, and community involvement can make a lasting impact. Listeners will hear practical advice for getting involved, stories that show the heart of service, and a reminder that age is never a barrier to leadership.

Whether you’re a young person looking to get involved, a parent encouraging civic engagement, or simply someone who believes in the power of community, this episode will leave you motivated and ready to make a difference

NC State and N.C. A&T State universities are collectively committed to positive action to secure equal opportunity and prohibit discrimination and harassment regardless of age, color, disability, family and marital status, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, political beliefs, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation and veteran status. NC State, N.C. A&T, USDA and local governments cooperating.