Patio Ponderings
Exploring the Expected and the Obscure in Agriculture
From a lifetime in agriculture to deep dives into leadership, rural life, and the evolving food system, Patio Pondering is a podcast where thoughtful conversations meet the open air. Hosted by Jim Smith, Ph.D., a seasoned Swine Nutritionist, agricultural thinker, and storyteller, this podcast explores the connections between our agricultural roots and the broader world.
What started as daily reflections—scribbled with a morning coffee in hand—has grown into a podcast that uncovers the insights, challenges, and sometimes-forgotten history of the industry that feeds us all. Whether solo pondering or engaging in candid discussions with guests, this show digs into everything from livestock production to food trends, rural business shifts, and the personal stories that shape agricultural life.
Now available in both audio and video formats, Patio Pondering brings these discussions to life on YouTube and podcast platforms alike. Whether you prefer to listen on the go or watch the conversation unfold, you’ll find fresh perspectives, candid storytelling, and the kind of conversations that make you think twice.
Subscribe and join the conversation—because agriculture is more than just dirt and livestock. It’s a story worth telling.
Patio Ponderings
Episode 45: From Livestock to Leadership - How 4-H and Farm Life Shaped Band Director Colby Stackhouse
What do show pigs and school bands have in common? According to Colby Stackhouse, a whole lot more than you'd expect.
In this episode of Patio Pondering, I talk with Colby—band director at Leo Junior/Senior High School—about his unlikely journey from barn boots to baton. Raised on a working farm and seasoned through years in 4-H livestock programs, Colby learned early how responsibility, structure, and resilience shape success. Today, those same lessons anchor his approach as a music educator and mentor to dozens of students navigating high school life.
We explore the parallels between agriculture and the arts, the daily challenges of running a band program, and why community support and strong leadership matter just as much in the band room as they do in the show ring.
Whether you’re an educator, a 4-H parent, a former band kid, or someone who believes in the transformative power of music education, Colby’s story will resonate.
Note: There’s some slight distortion on my mic in this episode—but Colby’s audio is crystal clear, and the message is well worth your time.
Highlights include:
- How 4-H and livestock shape discipline, leadership, and grit
- Navigating student dynamics in group performance
- The critical role of arts in education and school culture
- Teaching emotion, not just notes
- The power of celebrating student achievement