Episode 351: Amanda Mullins
Jun 04, 2025
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Summary:
In this episode of the Produce Moms Podcast, Lori Taylor discusses the importance of inclusion in education with Amanda Mullins, Assistant Director of Career and Leadership Development for Indiana FFA. They explore the role of FFA in youth development, the introduction of a Unified Horticulture Career Development Event (CDE) aimed at including students with special needs, and the collaborative efforts that made this initiative possible. The conversation highlights the significance of adaptive practices in education and the celebration of diversity within agricultural education. The conversation focuses on the Unified Horticulture program, which empowers students with special needs through hands-on experiences in food safety, decision-making, and life skills. Amanda Mullins discusses the importance of recognizing these students’ achievements, the community’s support, and the program’s growth, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and the joy of fresh produce in fostering connections and opportunities for all.
Takeaways:
- Inclusion in education is crucial for all students.
- FFA has over a million members across the U.S.
- Unified events in schools are limited but impactful.
- Collaboration among educators is key to success.
- The Unified Horticulture CDE was Amanda’s brainchild.
- Students with special needs deserve competitive opportunities.
- The first Unified Horticulture contest had 15 participants.
- Adaptive practices help break down barriers in education.
- Celebrating diversity in agriculture education is essential. Helping students understand food safety is crucial.
- Empowering students to make food choices builds confidence.
- Life skills are essential for independence in adulthood.
- Recognition of achievements fosters community support.
- Repetition and practice are key for skill development.
- Unified Horticulture provides meaningful job skills.
- Connecting food knowledge to daily living is important.
- Community involvement enhances the program’s impact.
- Inclusivity in education benefits all students.
- Future growth of the program is promising and exciting.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the Produce Moms Podcast
02:57 The Importance of Inclusion in Education
06:01 Understanding FFA: Future Farmers of America
09:00 Unified Horticulture CDE: A New Initiative
11:50 The Role of Collaboration in Unified Events
15:02 Details of the Unified Horticulture Competition
17:57 Celebrating Diversity in Agriculture Education
21:42 Understanding Food Safety and Preferences
24:40 Empowering Decision-Making in Food Choices
27:37 Life Skills Through Unified Horticulture
30:52 Connecting Food Knowledge to Daily Living
33:08 Recognition and Community Support for Unified Horticulture
36:39 Expanding Opportunities for Inclusion
39:31 Future Growth and Commitment to Inclusivity
