July 9, 2025 • 29 mins
This week's "Kentucky Focus w/Scott Fitzgerald" dives into stories that defy expectations and redefine what's possible—from breaking barriers in unexpected places to quietly shaping the future in fields you may not expect. We discover powerful journeys, and explore what it takes to lead, adapt, and thrive in changing times. Whether it’s work, wellness, or the will to win, each story is a testament to resilience, innovation, and quiet strength here in the Commonwealth. Join us—you won’t see these stories coming, but you’ll be glad you did!
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:01):
And welcome to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. This week,
we're diving into a pair of conversations that couldn't be
more different on the service, but both have something powerful
in common, real world insight that just might change how
you live your life. If your summer travel plans leave
you feeling well, a little off, you're not alone. We're
(00:21):
unpacking something that might be causing more discomfort than your luggage.
And later we'll talk about a journey decades in the making,
one that starts on the factory floor and ends up
breaking barriers, building hope, and swinging open doors for the
next generation in the most unexpected way. So get yourself settled,
stay with us. You don't want to miss what we've
got coming up on this week's Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald.
Speaker 2 (00:45):
Welcome to Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the
show that looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and it's citizens.
We cover state politics, in history, human interest stories, sports,
and even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on kNN.
Speaker 3 (01:04):
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many tests are available for free or covered by insurance.
It's time to sound like a broken record. Tell all
(01:25):
your friends and family I love you. Get screened. Visit
cancer dot org slash get screened to learn more.
Speaker 1 (01:33):
Janita Watthin bless It is a name you may not
know yet I've been into this conversation.
Speaker 2 (01:39):
You won't forget it.
Speaker 1 (01:40):
A native of New Albany, Indiana, Wanita was one of
the very first female pipefitters in the United States. A
new memoir Hard Hats to Heal. It's more than a
personal story. It's a testament to grit, resilience and the
power of persistence in breaking barriers, honesty, humor, and the
kind of perspective only earned through lived experience. Wannita gives
us a firm host seat to what it's like to
(02:01):
build a life and a career in a world where
few women had gone before, and as these skilled trades
face a generational shift and a critical labor shortage, her
well story really carries one weight today, serving as a
powerful call to inspire the next wave of workers, especially women,
to pick up the tools and carve their own pass Jannita, welcome,
(02:21):
appreciate you being with us.
Speaker 4 (02:23):
Thank you. It's an honor to be here today.
Speaker 1 (02:25):
And Janita, your story begins in New Albany, Indiana. Can
you take us back to where your journey into the
skilled trades began.
Speaker 4 (02:32):
I grew up on a small farm where I actually
I am still fortunate enough to live today. My family
has been able to keep that place. So there are
a lot of memories there and a lot of things
that were instilled into me that helped me on this
journey and made me the strong, resilient person that I am.
My dad was a plumber. He was in the Navy
(02:54):
and he learned to be a plumber pipe fitter. When
he got out of the navy, he took on the
trade and ended up being in the Union and stayed
in the Union and was a part of the Union
I think well over fifty years. And so my brothers
were in the Union, and so I followed along. I
followed my daddy's footsteps well.
Speaker 1 (03:14):
Anita Watthon Blessed joins us now she has a new
memoir on and Hard Hats to Heals. It's a personal
story about becoming one of the first female paint fitters
locally here for sure, and talking about breaking barriers one.
You know, what were those early days like stepping on
the job sites that were overwhelmingly male dominated.
Speaker 4 (03:32):
I mean it was a place that, you know, I
stepped into a world that there was no place for women.
There was no place to wash your hands, there were
no pink porticans. Hard hats did not fit me, gloves
did not fit me, Boots did not fit me right
Bill told boots and the men didn't want me there,
and their wives didn't want me there either. It was difficult.
(03:55):
I'm sure I had my family behind me. I'm sure
it was harder for other women that didn't have the
support that I had.
Speaker 1 (04:03):
Juanita wathin Blessed joining us again, we're talking about her
new memoir Hard Hats to Heels and breaking through barriers
that not a lot of females did at the time.
And was there a specific moment, why, Anita, when you
realized that you were breaking ground and not just working
a job, but you were basically changing the landscape for
other women.
Speaker 4 (04:23):
Maybe a little bit toward the end of my career
doing that. By the time I got out of the
trade in nineteen ninety five, things were still changing.
Speaker 5 (04:32):
Then.
Speaker 4 (04:34):
The law was starting to be behind us, and more
and more awareness was coming to diversity and women being
in the workplace and earning the respect and making achievements
and making those steps. Not just me, but all the
other women in the world that were achieving these great
(04:54):
things and doing these great things. So it was awareness
in the world that brought those changes as well. You know,
I see it now more than ever. I see the
way men have a different respect for women than what
they did back then. I mean, and just the way
times have changed.
Speaker 1 (05:13):
One need a Wattham blessed joining us again. You can
get hold of her book gets called Hard Hats to Heels.
It's her personal story about breaking through barriers, and we've
seen this in women's athletics as well lately. Women certainly
making their way now more than ever. You know, one,
I need it. Your memoir balances tough moments with humor.
Can you share one of the moments where you just
(05:34):
simply had to laugh and keep going.
Speaker 4 (05:36):
You can't put it on a book. There are things
that happened that you just they were maybe sometimes funnier
then than what they would be to talk about. You
just have to laugh about things sometimes. I had to
let it roll off of me like water off of
a duck.
Speaker 1 (05:51):
One you need, a want and blessed again. Just a
fascinating conversation. I love stories like this again. Her new
memoir is called Hard Hats to Heels and it's her
personal story about breaking through in the pipe fitting community
when there weren't any females and along those lines wind
eed up. Did you ever think about just giving up?
And if so, what kept you going?
Speaker 4 (06:12):
Oh my gosh, I said to myself, Waneda, who the
hell do you think you are? What do you think
you're doing? Why do you think you can do this?
Because we didn't have the tools and the equipment that
they have now. I had a fellow tell me the
other day some of the things that we did, now,
a safety man would have come up and gave you
a citation for trying to lift something up that was
(06:32):
too heavy? Are you kidding me? They challenged me to
lift those things.
Speaker 1 (06:37):
And I think much like what we just talked about,
where you had moments where you just had to laugh
and keep going. I'm sure there were numerous moments along
your journey where you really just said, like you pointed out,
what am I doing? Should I give up and go?
But what was the biggest driving factor where you said
to yourself, why need it? We're not quitting this thing,
We're even keep going hard.
Speaker 4 (06:55):
On It was because I was kind of hard headed
and strong willed, and I want to start something and
not finish it. My mom always said my dad did that.
I didn't want to do that. Another part was the money.
My friends are making three dollars an hour and I
was making twelve.
Speaker 1 (07:10):
That's a lot of money back then.
Speaker 4 (07:12):
It was a lot of money in nineteen seventy eight.
Speaker 1 (07:14):
Yeah, and having a great conversation. Why Anita Watthan Blessed
is joining us. You can find her book wherever you
get any of your favorite reads, Hard Hats to Heals,
and it's a great memoir and breaking in and barriers
where women weren't before, And that of course is the
world of pipe fitting and wan Ita, we look at
the bigger picture and today we hear a lot about
(07:35):
the labor shortage in the trades. What's your message to
young people, especially women who may have never considered a
career and say skilled labor.
Speaker 4 (07:43):
What I find is very interesting is about it is
the way that you start to look at things differently,
like the way a building is built and all the
things that went into that, and all the different trades
and all the different people. It's just like many other things.
You take an organization, you got the little workers, you
got the big workers, you got the people at the top.
Somebody's got to run the dagone thing, right, Construction's kind
(08:05):
of the same way, you know, it's broken down into
pieces and there's all these different parts, and all those
different parts is what makes it work. And that's what
makes a family work and a community work, and that's
what brings us all together.
Speaker 1 (08:17):
Well, Nita, what would you say if you had the
ear of the biggest decision makers in the industry and
really any of the industries where women aren't so prevalent
about how to better welcome and not only just welcome,
but support women who want to pursue this.
Speaker 4 (08:31):
They need to, you know, open up their eyes and
see that it takes all the people to do these things.
You may have somebody that knows something that has a
different angle it things, a different thought, it takes all
of us to bring these things together. You can't base
that on somebody's gender. You know, that's like looking at
(08:51):
an apple picking out which one's going to be the sweetest.
You got to get inside of it and find out
what's in there and what's making its tick. You know
what made it sweet? Right?
Speaker 1 (08:59):
That is a quest great analogy, w I Needa, that
is fantastic. Again we're talking with Jannita Wattha bless it again.
You can find her book Hard Hats to Heals anywhere
you buy your favorite publications, your favorite books I recommend reading,
especially those who have daughters who are trying to find
their way and come up in the world. Talking about
the book, what did you learn about yourself and the
(09:20):
process of putting your story down on paper?
Speaker 4 (09:23):
Well, you know, I didn't realize that I had broken
as many barriers as I did. I didn't realize until
I start reflecting on some of it. I had kept
some notes. What I wrote is really what happened, So
nothing is really embellished at all. It's actually probably a
lot worse than what I make it.
Speaker 1 (09:40):
Finally, for you on need It, what do you hope readers,
especially young women take away from this book.
Speaker 4 (09:46):
Well, I think it inspires them to try everything to
If they think that they wanted to do something, try
to do it. How do you know if you're going
to be good at it if you don't at least
try and you have to educate yourself. They say anybody
can do anything, Well you can, but you got to
learn how to do it. You can't just walk out
there and do it. So you have to look into it,
(10:07):
see if it's something you really think you're gonna like,
and if you don't know, try it for a little bit.
Speaker 1 (10:11):
Wanita wanton blessed story, of course, is proof that courage
and conviction can build more than a career, It can
build a legacy. Her memoir, Hard Hats to Heels isn't
just about plumbing or pipe fitting. It's about perseverance, progress,
and the power saying yes to a challenge even when
the odds are stacked against you. As you heard one
need to say. If you've ever felt like you're the
only one in the room, if you've ever wondered whether
(10:33):
your path was worth the struggle, wan Needa story is
here to remind you it absolutely is. Hard Hats to
Heels is available now you can pick it up again
anywhere you pick up your favorite publications.
Speaker 2 (10:43):
Pass it on.
Speaker 1 (10:44):
It just might inspire the next generation to pick up
the torture Juanita as the proud father of a daughter
who thinks just like you do. Thank you for joining us.
This has been a treat for me and I really
appreciate you taking time to talk to us.
Speaker 4 (10:56):
Thank you, Scott. It's been a pleasure to be on
your program today. Right now, the memoir is available on
Amazon and Barnes and.
Speaker 1 (11:03):
Noble coming up. Just because the fourth of July is
in the River Viewer doesn't mean we're still not traveling
in Why you should take care of this part of
your body before you go Yeah, we'll.
Speaker 2 (11:13):
Talk about it.
Speaker 1 (11:14):
I'm Scott Fitzgerald. You're listening to Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 6 (11:23):
Drivers. Austin centered here as a NASCAR cupsiers driver of
the number two discount tire Ford Mustang. There's a few
rules of the road I like to tell my family
and friends. Tire pressure is critical to safety because underinflated
tires are more likely to fail. Plus, properly inflated tires
will give you better gas mileage. Make sure to check
your tire pressure at least once a month, or stopped by
(11:43):
a local tire retailer for an air.
Speaker 2 (11:45):
Train a message from the US Tire Manufacturers Association.
Speaker 7 (11:50):
Some journeys start small, with small pause and a big purpose.
Partnership begins with the first step. Let's go guiding them
through the world, so one day they can guide someone
(12:11):
through life with shared experience. Confidence grows and the path
becomes clear. It takes time, patience and love, but the
reward lasts a lifetime. You don't just raise a puppy,
(12:32):
You raise a future. Become a dog's ink poppy eraser,
give a dog a purpose, give someone.
Speaker 1 (12:43):
Oh learn more at dogsink dot org. Welcome back to
Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. And with summer travel in
full swing and before long we can be planning for
holiday travel. Right, there's a topic we don't talk.
Speaker 2 (12:58):
About nearly enough.
Speaker 1 (13:00):
Digestive issues wll on the go, whether it's bloating after
a flight, heartburn or unfamiliar foods, or the dreaded travel
constipation many of us have belted at one time or another.
Joining us now is doctor Keith Asuma. He is a
gastro entrologist with the Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Institute. He's
(13:20):
here to explain why travel throws our digestive track off
and what we can know about it. Doctor Suma, thanks
for taking time to join us.
Speaker 8 (13:27):
Thank you for the invitation. It's nice to be here,
you bet.
Speaker 1 (13:30):
Let's start with the basics, Doc, Why does travel often
trigger digestive issues in the first place.
Speaker 8 (13:35):
Well, I think there are a number of different reasons.
Our bodies are creatures of habit and when we change
the schedule with travel, we're going to a new environment.
We're disrupting our normal routine, eating new and different foods,
so that change to the schedule can impact how the
guts functioning. And then when it comes to travel itself,
(13:58):
if we're traveling along disay, since the disruption between our
body's internal clock and internal time and the time at
our destination can lead to digestive issues due to that
mismanchon timing, travel can lead to changes to our gut
bacteria and other microorganisms in the intestine. Those changes can
(14:22):
cause digestive issues. And then stress and anxiety related to travel,
which can happen, can manifest with digestive problems on their own.
So it can be any combination of those factors can
all lead to some of these digestive problems that are
quite common what we travel.
Speaker 1 (14:39):
Talking with doctor Keith Zuma, he is a gastro enterrologist
with the Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Institute. Having a great
conversation as Americans continue to hit the road this summer,
and of course we all deal with that just doesn't
feel right while we're traveling. So we've got some great
insight for you today. Many people doc report bloating, heartburn
and constant patient while traveling. What really, what are the
(15:02):
biggest culprits behind that we go inside ourselves? What causes that?
Speaker 8 (15:07):
Well, I think it's the change to our environment and
our routine I was about with travel. So we're going
from our home where we're comfortable, our usual diet to
a new place, a new environment, a disruption to our schedule,
new and different foods. That change in our habit throws
our gut off kilter and can manifest with some of
(15:30):
these issues that can pop up while we're traveling.
Speaker 1 (15:33):
Well, one thing that's near and dear to my heart, Doc,
that is, of course circadian rhythms. Mine are like all
over the map and You've done some research into how
sleep and circadian rhythms actually affect your gut health. How
does jet lag or poor sleep during a trip impact
our digestion.
Speaker 8 (15:47):
And disrupting our circadian rhythms or disrupting our sleep throws
off how our gut is working. Our bodies have this
internal clock which helps our bodies regulate time so that
it can function in the right way at the right time.
And when you disrupt that rhythm, it's basically becomes like
(16:08):
a symphony that's out of whack. Things just aren't working
in the right way. Disrupting your sleep or changing your
circadian rhythms impact our gut microbiota. These are the bacteria
and other microorganisms that live in our gut help us
digest our food and help us regulate our immune system,
so those changes can manifest with GI problems. So these
(16:31):
issues can all disrupt how our gut is working.
Speaker 1 (16:35):
Doctor Keith Suma is joining us great topic of conversation
as we all continue to hit the road this summer,
plenty of trips still on hand. Also when we get
on the road, maybe over the holidays coming up later
on this year. He is a gastro entrologist, with the
Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Institute. Hey, docs, so what do hydration,
(16:56):
fibern movement like, walking, and stretching. What role do those
play and keeping things everything running smoothly for us?
Speaker 8 (17:03):
I think these are all general pieces of advice that
can help minimize some of the impact of travel on
our gut. So staying well hydrated can help make sure
there's enough water in the system to help food and
everything move through the gut normally. So bringing water with you,
making sure that you're drinking regularly to stay well hydrated
(17:24):
is important. Activity and movement is another stimulus for our
gut to move and for the muscles and our gut
to contract help things move through normally. So while you're traveling,
if you're stuck at the airport waiting to get through
security or waiting for a connecting flight, you're at the
gas station while your car's filling up, instead of just
(17:45):
standing there sitting there, try to move your body, stretch, walk,
These little things can help stimulate the gut to keep
things moving through normally, which can help your gut function
more normally. And then fiber is a component of our
diet that can help ensure regular motility through the gut
help with regular bowel movements, So traveling with high fiber
(18:09):
snacks can be a good idea to help maintain some
of that normal gut function while we're traveling.
Speaker 1 (18:16):
Great conversation with gastro entrologists with Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Institute,
doctor Keith Asuma joining us during this travel season, which
we're still in full swing and will be I'm pretty
much throughout the end of the year, talking us about
how we can better engage our gut when it comes
to travel, and we all have experienced that discomfort over time. Doc,
(18:36):
are some people more risks than others, for example, those
with IBS or other digestive conditions.
Speaker 8 (18:42):
Yeah, I think exactly. People with chronic digestive conditions such
as irritable bowel syndrome or IBS have an increased susceptibility
to these travel related issues. These chronic conditions mean that
the gut at baseline is impaired and having issues and
not functioning proper. And if you throw in some of
the challenges that come about with travel that we've discussed,
(19:05):
that can further throw things out of whack and cause
problems or issues related to travel. I think another group
that has higher susceptibility is people with anxiety or for example,
post traumatic stress disorder. Because of the intimate connection between
the gut and the brain, anxiety and issues in the
brain can disrupt how the gut's functioning and can manifest
(19:29):
with GI problems or issues. So I think there may
be some increased susceptibility in those individuals too.
Speaker 1 (19:34):
Great conversation, Doctor Keith Suma is with us now we're
talking about your gut and traveling doctors. People are listening
to this. Maybe some have those conditions you just talked about,
or maybe some don't but do experience that discomfort. Are
there any easy changes we can make before we take
a trip to help our gut really adjust better.
Speaker 8 (19:52):
I think being proactive leading up to the travel can
be helpful. So if you're somebody that is prone to constipation,
or if you know you I've had constipation issues while
traveling in the past, being proactive about preventing that symptom
from developing in the first place, as opposed to waiting
till it becomes a huge problem and then you're kind
of behind the ape all, so to speak. So paying
(20:15):
attention to your hydration your diet, your activity, and your
travel planning beforehand can be helpful making sure you're staying
well hydrated, staying active while traveling, and traveling with some
of these gut friendly snacks that you can use while
you're traveling as opposed to relying on things like at
the airport or the gas station, which may not be
(20:36):
as high quality of a food, can all be helpful
and minimizing some of the issues that can come up.
Speaker 1 (20:41):
Doc, before we let you go, just a couple more questions,
because I know a lot of folks listening to this
or maybe getting ready hit the road or will hit
the road soon. What warning sign should travelers look out
for that may indicate more than just your typical travel
related discomfort.
Speaker 8 (20:56):
Well, I think the warning signs that would really raise
a red flag and warrant you to seek your doctor
healthcare professional for some assistance would be anything like bleeding.
So that's not going to be something that's travel related.
That may suggest something else is going on, So bleeding
would be a warning sign. And then if the symptoms
(21:16):
are so severe that you're really not able to travel
or do your normal activities would be another sign that
maybe there's something else going on, or this is perhaps
a bigger problem that needs some professional evaluation and assistance
in managing.
Speaker 1 (21:33):
And how soon, doc, should things sort of start to
regulate themselves. For example, if I'm on a two week
trip maybe overseas, in this last few days, I understand
it goes away, but what if this continues to persist
on when should I be really concerned?
Speaker 8 (21:46):
The general rule of thumb for your body's clock and
getting kind of resynchronized to your home environment is about
an hour a day, and so if you travel seven
hours at time zone that's seven hours away, it should
take about a week for things to get realigned and
reorganized at your home destination on return. So if things
(22:07):
are dragging out longer than a week or two, that
means there's something else going on, or perhaps the trip
triggered something that is a little bit longer lasting than
just the travel related symptoms themselves. So if things aren't
getting better or are getting worse after one to two
weeks of traveling, that would be kind of a timeline
where I would start thinking, maybe you need some additional
(22:29):
evaluation or additional help to make sure there's not something
else going on.
Speaker 1 (22:33):
Excellent conversation, Doctor, Keith Suma is with us, a gastro
enterologist from the Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Institute and doc
can promiotics or supplements help you on the road or
is food in lifestyle still the better route to go.
Speaker 8 (22:49):
My opinion is that food and lifestyle really is the
best route to go. I think that's best for your
gut health as well as your overall health. The data
on using probiotics and supplement I think it's not really
there to make them a common recommendation for everyone.
Speaker 1 (23:05):
Finally, those listening, when they're done listening to us, where
can they go to learn more about managing this digestive health,
especially while traveling.
Speaker 8 (23:12):
Three good resources that can be helpful for your listeners
are the websites for the Centers for Disease Control or CDC,
the Mayo Clinic in Northwestern Medicine or nm dot org.
These all have the information about travel and digestive health
topics that can be helpful.
Speaker 1 (23:28):
Doctor Keith Suma, gastro entrologist with the Northwestern Medicine Digestive
Health Institute. Doctor Summa, thanks so much for your insight.
We appreciate you, my friend.
Speaker 8 (23:37):
Thank you, Scott. It's been a pleasure of being with
you this morning.
Speaker 1 (23:40):
Doctor Keith Suma gastro entrologists at Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health
Institute and helping us all travel a little bit more
comfortably this summer. For more information on digestive health and
how to protect your gut, one to go visit Northwestern
Medicine dot org. We've got some big news here in
the Commonwealth of Kentucky. We'll talk about it coming up.
I'm Scott viz Jeld. You're listening to kentuct you bubs.
Speaker 3 (24:04):
I was in the hospital with my son for eighteen months.
Speaker 2 (24:07):
When he got injured. I wasn't prepared, but.
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I knew I had to be strong. When I was
told about John's injury, I was in complete shock. I
just remember rushing into his room and giving him a
big hug and letting him know I was there.
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These veterans and families are just a few of the heroes.
We serve at homes for our troops, for thousands of
severely injured veterans. Everyday life is filled with barriers.
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Those really the little things throughout the house, counters that
you can't roll up to, how to drag my wheelchair downsteps.
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I want to help, but he is so determined.
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At homes for our troops, we build specially adapted custom
homes with features like wheelchair access, roll in showers, and
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This house is freedom, it's hope, it's that new beginning.
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This house has given me my family.
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Back to learn more. Visit HFOT USA Daughter Work.
Speaker 1 (25:04):
Welcome back to Kentucky Focus. So I'm Scott Fitzgerald. Two
prestigious recognitions were announced this week here in the Commonwealth,
spotlighting some of the state's finest individuals in both agriculture
and athletics. Of course, from the fertile fields of Hopkins,
Mason and Anderson County to the grand stages of the NFL, NBA,
and Olympic arenas, these Kentucky folks served us well. Let's
start with the Kentucky Farm Bureau. They revealed their three
(25:26):
finalists for Farmer of the Year, once, of course, given
to those who not only excel in agriculture, but also
in leadership and service to their communities. This year's finalists
are Mark Metcalf of Hopkins County, Scott Porter of Mason
County and Mike Wilson of Anderson County. Metcalf operates a
large scale floral and greenhouse business in Madisonville. It's complete
with twenty greenhouses at Carden Center, landscaping operation and a
(25:48):
flora shop, all built on the foundation his grandfather laid
decades ago. Alongside his wife, Penny, Marcus modernized the business
while preserving its legacy, installing solar panels, improving infrastructure, and
promoting agritourism in the region. Scott Porter is a cattleman
from Maysville. He runs Springdale Stock Farms, focusing on a
(26:08):
nine hundred head commercial beef herd. He's spent more than
twenty years mastering the art of buying, selling, and raising cattle.
Today operating a lean, efficient and debt free farm, his
passion now extends to mentoring younger cattle producers, including his
own son recently joined the operation full time, and of course,
Mike Wilson at Whispering Hills Farm in Lawrenceburg, has dedicated
his life to beef, cattle and hay production with a
(26:30):
strong emphasis on land conservation and environmental stewardship. Having returned
to the family farm, in nineteen ninety nine. Wilson has
since expanded his operation in earned national recognition, including the
twenty twenty four Leopold Conservation Award and a regional win
from the National Cattleman's Beef Association. Winter will course be
announced on October second and recognized at the Kentucky Farm
(26:51):
Bureau's annual meeting in December. Meanwhile, to the world of athletics,
for Kentucky, legends will be inducted into the Kentucky Sports
Hall of Fame this fall. They include former UK football
star Randall Cobb, former UK basketball star Tayshawn Prince, and
joining them is Carol Lee Guy, pioneering gymnastics of course
coaching at the University of Louisville, and Nora Martin Loss.
(27:12):
She's one of the greatest female trabshooters in history. From Paris, Kentucky.
She shattered records in glass ceiling. She became the first woman,
by the way to win a Grand American championship in
the male dominated sport. These four will formerly be honored
on September twenty third during a ceremony at Freedom Hall
and Louisville that where they'll sit among the all time
greats here in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Whether it's shaping
(27:32):
the land or leaving their market sports history, these folks
are a testament to the hard work, resilience, and passion
for excellence that all of our citizens here in the
Commonwealth possess. Congratulations to all. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. We're back
to wrap things up here on Kentucky Focus. Jobs for
Someone with Autism programmer teacher.
Speaker 3 (27:55):
Win by Autism Speaks helps businesses lead the way in
inclusive hiring.
Speaker 1 (28:00):
How about a healthcare worker? To learn more, go to
Autism Speaks dot org slash win and welcome back to
Kentucky Focus. So I'm Scott Fitzgerald. As we close out
another week together here, a big thank you to doctor
Keith Suma from the Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Institute for
joining us today and helping us better understand how travel,
disrupted sleep and even small changes in routeam can impact
(28:23):
our gun health in big ways.
Speaker 2 (28:25):
If you'd like to learn more, get.
Speaker 1 (28:26):
Tips for preventing digestive issues on your next trip, head
to nm dot org forward slash Travel and Digestion. That's
nm dot org forward slash Travel and Digestion and heartfelt
thanks to Why need Up watthen Blessed for sharing her
absolutely incredible journey from hard Hats to Heels. Her story
(28:47):
is a testament to resilience, grit, and the power of
breaking barriers. You can pick up her memoir, Hard Hats
to Heels wherever books are sold. Our visit why neeed
Up Blessed dot com to learn more. Two different path
one common theme, strength in the face of challenge. Thanks
again to our guests, and thanks to you for joining
us each week until next week. Kentucky, stay well, stay curious,
(29:11):
and I'll talk to you next time on Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 2 (29:14):
Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the show that
looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and its citizens. We
cover state politics and history, human interest stories, sports, and
even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on K and N
And welcome to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. This week,
we're diving into a pair of conversations that couldn't be
more different on the service, but both have something powerful
in common, real world insight that just might change how
you live your life. If your summer travel plans leave
you feeling well, a little off, you're not alone. We're
(00:21):
unpacking something that might be causing more discomfort than your luggage.
And later we'll talk about a journey decades in the making,
one that starts on the factory floor and ends up
breaking barriers, building hope, and swinging open doors for the
next generation in the most unexpected way. So get yourself settled,
stay with us. You don't want to miss what we've
got coming up on this week's Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald.
Speaker 2 (00:45):
Welcome to Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the
show that looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and it's citizens.
We cover state politics, in history, human interest stories, sports,
and even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on kNN.
Speaker 3 (01:04):
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Cancer screening tests can help keep the person you love
around longer by detecting changes before cancer develops, or catch
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many tests are available for free or covered by insurance.
It's time to sound like a broken record. Tell all
(01:25):
your friends and family I love you. Get screened. Visit
cancer dot org slash get screened to learn more.
Speaker 1 (01:33):
Janita Watthin bless It is a name you may not
know yet I've been into this conversation.
Speaker 2 (01:39):
You won't forget it.
Speaker 1 (01:40):
A native of New Albany, Indiana, Wanita was one of
the very first female pipefitters in the United States. A
new memoir Hard Hats to Heal. It's more than a
personal story. It's a testament to grit, resilience and the
power of persistence in breaking barriers, honesty, humor, and the
kind of perspective only earned through lived experience. Wannita gives
us a firm host seat to what it's like to
(02:01):
build a life and a career in a world where
few women had gone before, and as these skilled trades
face a generational shift and a critical labor shortage, her
well story really carries one weight today, serving as a
powerful call to inspire the next wave of workers, especially women,
to pick up the tools and carve their own pass Jannita, welcome,
(02:21):
appreciate you being with us.
Speaker 4 (02:23):
Thank you. It's an honor to be here today.
Speaker 1 (02:25):
And Janita, your story begins in New Albany, Indiana. Can
you take us back to where your journey into the
skilled trades began.
Speaker 4 (02:32):
I grew up on a small farm where I actually
I am still fortunate enough to live today. My family
has been able to keep that place. So there are
a lot of memories there and a lot of things
that were instilled into me that helped me on this
journey and made me the strong, resilient person that I am.
My dad was a plumber. He was in the Navy
(02:54):
and he learned to be a plumber pipe fitter. When
he got out of the navy, he took on the
trade and ended up being in the Union and stayed
in the Union and was a part of the Union
I think well over fifty years. And so my brothers
were in the Union, and so I followed along. I
followed my daddy's footsteps well.
Speaker 1 (03:14):
Anita Watthon Blessed joins us now she has a new
memoir on and Hard Hats to Heals. It's a personal
story about becoming one of the first female paint fitters
locally here for sure, and talking about breaking barriers one.
You know, what were those early days like stepping on
the job sites that were overwhelmingly male dominated.
Speaker 4 (03:32):
I mean it was a place that, you know, I
stepped into a world that there was no place for women.
There was no place to wash your hands, there were
no pink porticans. Hard hats did not fit me, gloves
did not fit me, Boots did not fit me right
Bill told boots and the men didn't want me there,
and their wives didn't want me there either. It was difficult.
(03:55):
I'm sure I had my family behind me. I'm sure
it was harder for other women that didn't have the
support that I had.
Speaker 1 (04:03):
Juanita wathin Blessed joining us again, we're talking about her
new memoir Hard Hats to Heels and breaking through barriers
that not a lot of females did at the time.
And was there a specific moment, why, Anita, when you
realized that you were breaking ground and not just working
a job, but you were basically changing the landscape for
other women.
Speaker 4 (04:23):
Maybe a little bit toward the end of my career
doing that. By the time I got out of the
trade in nineteen ninety five, things were still changing.
Speaker 5 (04:32):
Then.
Speaker 4 (04:34):
The law was starting to be behind us, and more
and more awareness was coming to diversity and women being
in the workplace and earning the respect and making achievements
and making those steps. Not just me, but all the
other women in the world that were achieving these great
(04:54):
things and doing these great things. So it was awareness
in the world that brought those changes as well. You know,
I see it now more than ever. I see the
way men have a different respect for women than what
they did back then. I mean, and just the way
times have changed.
Speaker 1 (05:13):
One need a Wattham blessed joining us again. You can
get hold of her book gets called Hard Hats to Heels.
It's her personal story about breaking through barriers, and we've
seen this in women's athletics as well lately. Women certainly
making their way now more than ever. You know, one,
I need it. Your memoir balances tough moments with humor.
Can you share one of the moments where you just
(05:34):
simply had to laugh and keep going.
Speaker 4 (05:36):
You can't put it on a book. There are things
that happened that you just they were maybe sometimes funnier
then than what they would be to talk about. You
just have to laugh about things sometimes. I had to
let it roll off of me like water off of
a duck.
Speaker 1 (05:51):
One you need, a want and blessed again. Just a
fascinating conversation. I love stories like this again. Her new
memoir is called Hard Hats to Heels and it's her
personal story about breaking through in the pipe fitting community
when there weren't any females and along those lines wind
eed up. Did you ever think about just giving up?
And if so, what kept you going?
Speaker 4 (06:12):
Oh my gosh, I said to myself, Waneda, who the
hell do you think you are? What do you think
you're doing? Why do you think you can do this?
Because we didn't have the tools and the equipment that
they have now. I had a fellow tell me the
other day some of the things that we did, now,
a safety man would have come up and gave you
a citation for trying to lift something up that was
(06:32):
too heavy? Are you kidding me? They challenged me to
lift those things.
Speaker 1 (06:37):
And I think much like what we just talked about,
where you had moments where you just had to laugh
and keep going. I'm sure there were numerous moments along
your journey where you really just said, like you pointed out,
what am I doing? Should I give up and go?
But what was the biggest driving factor where you said
to yourself, why need it? We're not quitting this thing,
We're even keep going hard.
Speaker 4 (06:55):
On It was because I was kind of hard headed
and strong willed, and I want to start something and
not finish it. My mom always said my dad did that.
I didn't want to do that. Another part was the money.
My friends are making three dollars an hour and I
was making twelve.
Speaker 1 (07:10):
That's a lot of money back then.
Speaker 4 (07:12):
It was a lot of money in nineteen seventy eight.
Speaker 1 (07:14):
Yeah, and having a great conversation. Why Anita Watthan Blessed
is joining us. You can find her book wherever you
get any of your favorite reads, Hard Hats to Heals,
and it's a great memoir and breaking in and barriers
where women weren't before, And that of course is the
world of pipe fitting and wan Ita, we look at
the bigger picture and today we hear a lot about
(07:35):
the labor shortage in the trades. What's your message to
young people, especially women who may have never considered a
career and say skilled labor.
Speaker 4 (07:43):
What I find is very interesting is about it is
the way that you start to look at things differently,
like the way a building is built and all the
things that went into that, and all the different trades
and all the different people. It's just like many other things.
You take an organization, you got the little workers, you
got the big workers, you got the people at the top.
Somebody's got to run the dagone thing, right, Construction's kind
(08:05):
of the same way, you know, it's broken down into
pieces and there's all these different parts, and all those
different parts is what makes it work. And that's what
makes a family work and a community work, and that's
what brings us all together.
Speaker 1 (08:17):
Well, Nita, what would you say if you had the
ear of the biggest decision makers in the industry and
really any of the industries where women aren't so prevalent
about how to better welcome and not only just welcome,
but support women who want to pursue this.
Speaker 4 (08:31):
They need to, you know, open up their eyes and
see that it takes all the people to do these things.
You may have somebody that knows something that has a
different angle it things, a different thought, it takes all
of us to bring these things together. You can't base
that on somebody's gender. You know, that's like looking at
(08:51):
an apple picking out which one's going to be the sweetest.
You got to get inside of it and find out
what's in there and what's making its tick. You know
what made it sweet? Right?
Speaker 1 (08:59):
That is a quest great analogy, w I Needa, that
is fantastic. Again we're talking with Jannita Wattha bless it again.
You can find her book Hard Hats to Heals anywhere
you buy your favorite publications, your favorite books I recommend reading,
especially those who have daughters who are trying to find
their way and come up in the world. Talking about
the book, what did you learn about yourself and the
(09:20):
process of putting your story down on paper?
Speaker 4 (09:23):
Well, you know, I didn't realize that I had broken
as many barriers as I did. I didn't realize until
I start reflecting on some of it. I had kept
some notes. What I wrote is really what happened, So
nothing is really embellished at all. It's actually probably a
lot worse than what I make it.
Speaker 1 (09:40):
Finally, for you on need It, what do you hope readers,
especially young women take away from this book.
Speaker 4 (09:46):
Well, I think it inspires them to try everything to
If they think that they wanted to do something, try
to do it. How do you know if you're going
to be good at it if you don't at least
try and you have to educate yourself. They say anybody
can do anything, Well you can, but you got to
learn how to do it. You can't just walk out
there and do it. So you have to look into it,
(10:07):
see if it's something you really think you're gonna like,
and if you don't know, try it for a little bit.
Speaker 1 (10:11):
Wanita wanton blessed story, of course, is proof that courage
and conviction can build more than a career, It can
build a legacy. Her memoir, Hard Hats to Heels isn't
just about plumbing or pipe fitting. It's about perseverance, progress,
and the power saying yes to a challenge even when
the odds are stacked against you. As you heard one
need to say. If you've ever felt like you're the
only one in the room, if you've ever wondered whether
(10:33):
your path was worth the struggle, wan Needa story is
here to remind you it absolutely is. Hard Hats to
Heels is available now you can pick it up again
anywhere you pick up your favorite publications.
Speaker 2 (10:43):
Pass it on.
Speaker 1 (10:44):
It just might inspire the next generation to pick up
the torture Juanita as the proud father of a daughter
who thinks just like you do. Thank you for joining us.
This has been a treat for me and I really
appreciate you taking time to talk to us.
Speaker 4 (10:56):
Thank you, Scott. It's been a pleasure to be on
your program today. Right now, the memoir is available on
Amazon and Barnes and.
Speaker 1 (11:03):
Noble coming up. Just because the fourth of July is
in the River Viewer doesn't mean we're still not traveling
in Why you should take care of this part of
your body before you go Yeah, we'll.
Speaker 2 (11:13):
Talk about it.
Speaker 1 (11:14):
I'm Scott Fitzgerald. You're listening to Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 6 (11:23):
Drivers. Austin centered here as a NASCAR cupsiers driver of
the number two discount tire Ford Mustang. There's a few
rules of the road I like to tell my family
and friends. Tire pressure is critical to safety because underinflated
tires are more likely to fail. Plus, properly inflated tires
will give you better gas mileage. Make sure to check
your tire pressure at least once a month, or stopped by
(11:43):
a local tire retailer for an air.
Speaker 2 (11:45):
Train a message from the US Tire Manufacturers Association.
Speaker 7 (11:50):
Some journeys start small, with small pause and a big purpose.
Partnership begins with the first step. Let's go guiding them
through the world, so one day they can guide someone
(12:11):
through life with shared experience. Confidence grows and the path
becomes clear. It takes time, patience and love, but the
reward lasts a lifetime. You don't just raise a puppy,
(12:32):
You raise a future. Become a dog's ink poppy eraser,
give a dog a purpose, give someone.
Speaker 1 (12:43):
Oh learn more at dogsink dot org. Welcome back to
Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. And with summer travel in
full swing and before long we can be planning for
holiday travel. Right, there's a topic we don't talk.
Speaker 2 (12:58):
About nearly enough.
Speaker 1 (13:00):
Digestive issues wll on the go, whether it's bloating after
a flight, heartburn or unfamiliar foods, or the dreaded travel
constipation many of us have belted at one time or another.
Joining us now is doctor Keith Asuma. He is a
gastro entrologist with the Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Institute. He's
(13:20):
here to explain why travel throws our digestive track off
and what we can know about it. Doctor Suma, thanks
for taking time to join us.
Speaker 8 (13:27):
Thank you for the invitation. It's nice to be here,
you bet.
Speaker 1 (13:30):
Let's start with the basics, Doc, Why does travel often
trigger digestive issues in the first place.
Speaker 8 (13:35):
Well, I think there are a number of different reasons.
Our bodies are creatures of habit and when we change
the schedule with travel, we're going to a new environment.
We're disrupting our normal routine, eating new and different foods,
so that change to the schedule can impact how the
guts functioning. And then when it comes to travel itself,
(13:58):
if we're traveling along disay, since the disruption between our
body's internal clock and internal time and the time at
our destination can lead to digestive issues due to that
mismanchon timing, travel can lead to changes to our gut
bacteria and other microorganisms in the intestine. Those changes can
(14:22):
cause digestive issues. And then stress and anxiety related to travel,
which can happen, can manifest with digestive problems on their own.
So it can be any combination of those factors can
all lead to some of these digestive problems that are
quite common what we travel.
Speaker 1 (14:39):
Talking with doctor Keith Zuma, he is a gastro enterrologist
with the Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Institute. Having a great
conversation as Americans continue to hit the road this summer,
and of course we all deal with that just doesn't
feel right while we're traveling. So we've got some great
insight for you today. Many people doc report bloating, heartburn
and constant patient while traveling. What really, what are the
(15:02):
biggest culprits behind that we go inside ourselves? What causes that?
Speaker 8 (15:07):
Well, I think it's the change to our environment and
our routine I was about with travel. So we're going
from our home where we're comfortable, our usual diet to
a new place, a new environment, a disruption to our schedule,
new and different foods. That change in our habit throws
our gut off kilter and can manifest with some of
(15:30):
these issues that can pop up while we're traveling.
Speaker 1 (15:33):
Well, one thing that's near and dear to my heart, Doc,
that is, of course circadian rhythms. Mine are like all
over the map and You've done some research into how
sleep and circadian rhythms actually affect your gut health. How
does jet lag or poor sleep during a trip impact
our digestion.
Speaker 8 (15:47):
And disrupting our circadian rhythms or disrupting our sleep throws
off how our gut is working. Our bodies have this
internal clock which helps our bodies regulate time so that
it can function in the right way at the right time.
And when you disrupt that rhythm, it's basically becomes like
(16:08):
a symphony that's out of whack. Things just aren't working
in the right way. Disrupting your sleep or changing your
circadian rhythms impact our gut microbiota. These are the bacteria
and other microorganisms that live in our gut help us
digest our food and help us regulate our immune system,
so those changes can manifest with GI problems. So these
(16:31):
issues can all disrupt how our gut is working.
Speaker 1 (16:35):
Doctor Keith Suma is joining us great topic of conversation
as we all continue to hit the road this summer,
plenty of trips still on hand. Also when we get
on the road, maybe over the holidays coming up later
on this year. He is a gastro entrologist, with the
Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Institute. Hey, docs, so what do hydration,
(16:56):
fibern movement like, walking, and stretching. What role do those
play and keeping things everything running smoothly for us?
Speaker 8 (17:03):
I think these are all general pieces of advice that
can help minimize some of the impact of travel on
our gut. So staying well hydrated can help make sure
there's enough water in the system to help food and
everything move through the gut normally. So bringing water with you,
making sure that you're drinking regularly to stay well hydrated
(17:24):
is important. Activity and movement is another stimulus for our
gut to move and for the muscles and our gut
to contract help things move through normally. So while you're traveling,
if you're stuck at the airport waiting to get through
security or waiting for a connecting flight, you're at the
gas station while your car's filling up, instead of just
(17:45):
standing there sitting there, try to move your body, stretch, walk,
These little things can help stimulate the gut to keep
things moving through normally, which can help your gut function
more normally. And then fiber is a component of our
diet that can help ensure regular motility through the gut
help with regular bowel movements, So traveling with high fiber
(18:09):
snacks can be a good idea to help maintain some
of that normal gut function while we're traveling.
Speaker 1 (18:16):
Great conversation with gastro entrologists with Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Institute,
doctor Keith Asuma joining us during this travel season, which
we're still in full swing and will be I'm pretty
much throughout the end of the year, talking us about
how we can better engage our gut when it comes
to travel, and we all have experienced that discomfort over time. Doc,
(18:36):
are some people more risks than others, for example, those
with IBS or other digestive conditions.
Speaker 8 (18:42):
Yeah, I think exactly. People with chronic digestive conditions such
as irritable bowel syndrome or IBS have an increased susceptibility
to these travel related issues. These chronic conditions mean that
the gut at baseline is impaired and having issues and
not functioning proper. And if you throw in some of
the challenges that come about with travel that we've discussed,
(19:05):
that can further throw things out of whack and cause
problems or issues related to travel. I think another group
that has higher susceptibility is people with anxiety or for example,
post traumatic stress disorder. Because of the intimate connection between
the gut and the brain, anxiety and issues in the
brain can disrupt how the gut's functioning and can manifest
(19:29):
with GI problems or issues. So I think there may
be some increased susceptibility in those individuals too.
Speaker 1 (19:34):
Great conversation, Doctor Keith Suma is with us now we're
talking about your gut and traveling doctors. People are listening
to this. Maybe some have those conditions you just talked about,
or maybe some don't but do experience that discomfort. Are
there any easy changes we can make before we take
a trip to help our gut really adjust better.
Speaker 8 (19:52):
I think being proactive leading up to the travel can
be helpful. So if you're somebody that is prone to constipation,
or if you know you I've had constipation issues while
traveling in the past, being proactive about preventing that symptom
from developing in the first place, as opposed to waiting
till it becomes a huge problem and then you're kind
of behind the ape all, so to speak. So paying
(20:15):
attention to your hydration your diet, your activity, and your
travel planning beforehand can be helpful making sure you're staying
well hydrated, staying active while traveling, and traveling with some
of these gut friendly snacks that you can use while
you're traveling as opposed to relying on things like at
the airport or the gas station, which may not be
(20:36):
as high quality of a food, can all be helpful
and minimizing some of the issues that can come up.
Speaker 1 (20:41):
Doc, before we let you go, just a couple more questions,
because I know a lot of folks listening to this
or maybe getting ready hit the road or will hit
the road soon. What warning sign should travelers look out
for that may indicate more than just your typical travel
related discomfort.
Speaker 8 (20:56):
Well, I think the warning signs that would really raise
a red flag and warrant you to seek your doctor
healthcare professional for some assistance would be anything like bleeding.
So that's not going to be something that's travel related.
That may suggest something else is going on, So bleeding
would be a warning sign. And then if the symptoms
(21:16):
are so severe that you're really not able to travel
or do your normal activities would be another sign that
maybe there's something else going on, or this is perhaps
a bigger problem that needs some professional evaluation and assistance
in managing.
Speaker 1 (21:33):
And how soon, doc, should things sort of start to
regulate themselves. For example, if I'm on a two week
trip maybe overseas, in this last few days, I understand
it goes away, but what if this continues to persist
on when should I be really concerned?
Speaker 8 (21:46):
The general rule of thumb for your body's clock and
getting kind of resynchronized to your home environment is about
an hour a day, and so if you travel seven
hours at time zone that's seven hours away, it should
take about a week for things to get realigned and
reorganized at your home destination on return. So if things
(22:07):
are dragging out longer than a week or two, that
means there's something else going on, or perhaps the trip
triggered something that is a little bit longer lasting than
just the travel related symptoms themselves. So if things aren't
getting better or are getting worse after one to two
weeks of traveling, that would be kind of a timeline
where I would start thinking, maybe you need some additional
(22:29):
evaluation or additional help to make sure there's not something
else going on.
Speaker 1 (22:33):
Excellent conversation, Doctor, Keith Suma is with us, a gastro
enterologist from the Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Institute and doc
can promiotics or supplements help you on the road or
is food in lifestyle still the better route to go.
Speaker 8 (22:49):
My opinion is that food and lifestyle really is the
best route to go. I think that's best for your
gut health as well as your overall health. The data
on using probiotics and supplement I think it's not really
there to make them a common recommendation for everyone.
Speaker 1 (23:05):
Finally, those listening, when they're done listening to us, where
can they go to learn more about managing this digestive health,
especially while traveling.
Speaker 8 (23:12):
Three good resources that can be helpful for your listeners
are the websites for the Centers for Disease Control or CDC,
the Mayo Clinic in Northwestern Medicine or nm dot org.
These all have the information about travel and digestive health
topics that can be helpful.
Speaker 1 (23:28):
Doctor Keith Suma, gastro entrologist with the Northwestern Medicine Digestive
Health Institute. Doctor Summa, thanks so much for your insight.
We appreciate you, my friend.
Speaker 8 (23:37):
Thank you, Scott. It's been a pleasure of being with
you this morning.
Speaker 1 (23:40):
Doctor Keith Suma gastro entrologists at Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health
Institute and helping us all travel a little bit more
comfortably this summer. For more information on digestive health and
how to protect your gut, one to go visit Northwestern
Medicine dot org. We've got some big news here in
the Commonwealth of Kentucky. We'll talk about it coming up.
I'm Scott viz Jeld. You're listening to kentuct you bubs.
Speaker 3 (24:04):
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When he got injured. I wasn't prepared, but.
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I knew I had to be strong. When I was
told about John's injury, I was in complete shock. I
just remember rushing into his room and giving him a
big hug and letting him know I was there.
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These veterans and families are just a few of the heroes.
We serve at homes for our troops, for thousands of
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Back to learn more. Visit HFOT USA Daughter Work.
Speaker 1 (25:04):
Welcome back to Kentucky Focus. So I'm Scott Fitzgerald. Two
prestigious recognitions were announced this week here in the Commonwealth,
spotlighting some of the state's finest individuals in both agriculture
and athletics. Of course, from the fertile fields of Hopkins,
Mason and Anderson County to the grand stages of the NFL, NBA,
and Olympic arenas, these Kentucky folks served us well. Let's
start with the Kentucky Farm Bureau. They revealed their three
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finalists for Farmer of the Year, once, of course, given
to those who not only excel in agriculture, but also
in leadership and service to their communities. This year's finalists
are Mark Metcalf of Hopkins County, Scott Porter of Mason
County and Mike Wilson of Anderson County. Metcalf operates a
large scale floral and greenhouse business in Madisonville. It's complete
with twenty greenhouses at Carden Center, landscaping operation and a
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flora shop, all built on the foundation his grandfather laid
decades ago. Alongside his wife, Penny, Marcus modernized the business
while preserving its legacy, installing solar panels, improving infrastructure, and
promoting agritourism in the region. Scott Porter is a cattleman
from Maysville. He runs Springdale Stock Farms, focusing on a
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nine hundred head commercial beef herd. He's spent more than
twenty years mastering the art of buying, selling, and raising cattle.
Today operating a lean, efficient and debt free farm, his
passion now extends to mentoring younger cattle producers, including his
own son recently joined the operation full time, and of course,
Mike Wilson at Whispering Hills Farm in Lawrenceburg, has dedicated
his life to beef, cattle and hay production with a
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strong emphasis on land conservation and environmental stewardship. Having returned
to the family farm, in nineteen ninety nine. Wilson has
since expanded his operation in earned national recognition, including the
twenty twenty four Leopold Conservation Award and a regional win
from the National Cattleman's Beef Association. Winter will course be
announced on October second and recognized at the Kentucky Farm
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Bureau's annual meeting in December. Meanwhile, to the world of athletics,
for Kentucky, legends will be inducted into the Kentucky Sports
Hall of Fame this fall. They include former UK football
star Randall Cobb, former UK basketball star Tayshawn Prince, and
joining them is Carol Lee Guy, pioneering gymnastics of course
coaching at the University of Louisville, and Nora Martin Loss.
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She's one of the greatest female trabshooters in history. From Paris, Kentucky.
She shattered records in glass ceiling. She became the first woman,
by the way to win a Grand American championship in
the male dominated sport. These four will formerly be honored
on September twenty third during a ceremony at Freedom Hall
and Louisville that where they'll sit among the all time
greats here in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Whether it's shaping
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the land or leaving their market sports history, these folks
are a testament to the hard work, resilience, and passion
for excellence that all of our citizens here in the
Commonwealth possess. Congratulations to all. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. We're back
to wrap things up here on Kentucky Focus. Jobs for
Someone with Autism programmer teacher.
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Win by Autism Speaks helps businesses lead the way in
inclusive hiring.
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How about a healthcare worker? To learn more, go to
Autism Speaks dot org slash win and welcome back to
Kentucky Focus. So I'm Scott Fitzgerald. As we close out
another week together here, a big thank you to doctor
Keith Suma from the Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Institute for
joining us today and helping us better understand how travel,
disrupted sleep and even small changes in routeam can impact
(28:23):
our gun health in big ways.
Speaker 2 (28:25):
If you'd like to learn more, get.
Speaker 1 (28:26):
Tips for preventing digestive issues on your next trip, head
to nm dot org forward slash Travel and Digestion. That's
nm dot org forward slash Travel and Digestion and heartfelt
thanks to Why need Up watthen Blessed for sharing her
absolutely incredible journey from hard Hats to Heels. Her story
(28:47):
is a testament to resilience, grit, and the power of
breaking barriers. You can pick up her memoir, Hard Hats
to Heels wherever books are sold. Our visit why neeed
Up Blessed dot com to learn more. Two different path
one common theme, strength in the face of challenge. Thanks
again to our guests, and thanks to you for joining
us each week until next week. Kentucky, stay well, stay curious,
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and I'll talk to you next time on Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 2 (29:14):
Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the show that
looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and its citizens. We
cover state politics and history, human interest stories, sports, and
even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on K and N
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