Jaylea Pope – Nebraska Rural Radio Association – Lincoln, Nebraska

June Update

Broadcasting Beyond the Mic: An Intern’s Perspective

They say the best way to learn is by doing. Over the past three weeks, I’ve embraced this philosophy wholeheartedly with the Rural Radio Network. From day one, I dove into the heart of agricultural journalism—covering the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture’s visit to Nebraska alongside seasoned broadcaster Steve White. This wasn’t just an assignment; it was an initiation into the dynamic world of farm broadcasting.

Each day brought new experiences. My first week felt like a whirlwind with almost a daily “field trip,” attending various events to gather stories, conduct interviews, and produce content. I hadn’t fully grasped the breadth of my involvement until I shared my experiences with my parents. I recounted meeting producers and industry professionals, learning to produce diverse media formats, and covering significant news events. My dad’s response was a proud, “You really get to do all of that as an intern?” To which I could confidently reply, “Yes!”

Agriculture storytelling has always been my passion, and this internship has allowed me to connect with individuals across the industry. I’ve had the privilege of working closely with the broadcast team members—Bryce, Alex, Steve, Chad, and Rebel—each offering unique insights and mentorship. My first interview was rather memorable as I sat down with Tony Castillo, a dietician from Florida, who attended the Nebraska Beef Council’s Nutrition Adventure Event. Another highlight was accompanying Chad Moyer to the World Pork Expo in Des Moines, Iowa. There, I assisted in covering the event, conducting interviews, and creating social media content, further honing my skills in real-world settings. Also, joining Bryce and Alex to gather video content about autonomous tractors produced and tested here in Nebraska was just another example of a hands-on learning experience.

Steve aptly noted that regardless of whether I pursue farm broadcasting long-term, the skills I’m acquiring, such as storytelling, media production, and public engagement, are invaluable in any communications field. These experiences are shaping me into a more versatile and confident professional.
Moreover, hearing my voice on local radio stations and seeing my work on television has been a tangible reminder of the impact I’m making, even during this brief summer internship.

While I’ve accomplished much in these initial weeks, this is just the beginning. I’m eager to launch my major project, which will spotlight corn production in Nebraska and connect with corn growers statewide. I’m deeply grateful to the Nebraska Corn Board for this opportunity, and I look forward to continuing to serve and learn from Nebraska’s agricultural community.