Cattlemen's Call Podcast: Recent Episodes
National Cattlemen's Beef Association
Montana rancher and broadcaster Lane Nordlund hosts this monthly “coffee talk” style podcast focusing on the producers in the beef industry. Learn and laugh together with the stories of cattlemen and women from across the country. We all have stories to tell; we all have successes and failures; we all work with family and it’s always great to talk about what is going on in the beef industry across the country.
Cowboy boots and hats were spotted across Washington, D.C., for the 2024 Legislative Conference. NCBA’s Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane and NCBA Policy Division Chair Kim Brackett talk about the what the House and Senate are doing to progress the Farm Bill and share new rulings from the Bureau of Land Management that may impact cattle producers on public and private lands.
CapitolHill #cattlenews #agnews #cattleproduction #farmers #ranchers #FarmBill #regulation #publiclandsgrazing #grazing #cattlemarkets #ranch #ranching #beef #eatbeef #rancher #ranching #ranch #agriculture
Panthers, invasive species, urban encroachment — what don’t Russell and Liesa Priddy have to worry about on their third-generation cow-calf ranch? JB Ranch is the 2023 Region II ESAP winner, and Russell and Liesa join this episode to talk about what it’s like to provide habitat for the Florida state animal, the panther, and remain an oasis for cattle and other species in a rapidly growing area of Florida.
FloridaRanching #Cattle #Beef #Florida #Grazing #Panther #Rural #Conservation #LandStewardship #FloridaCattle #Floridapanther #ESAP #enviromentalstewardship
Thousands of grazing and farmland acres are being lost each year. Whether it be from urbanization, burdensome taxes, or different pursuits of the next generation, there is no question that the need to protect our working lands is crucial. Michael Delbar with California Rangeland Trust and Chad Ellis with Texas Agriculture Land Trust explain the ins and outs of conservation easements and why they are the best decision for some producers. Hear about the pros and the cons of conservation easements as a tool to protecting range lands.
cattle #beef #livestock #grazing #openspaces #rural #beefcattle #ConservationEasements #LandConservation #SaveOurGrazingAreas #SustainableAgriculture #LandStewardship
We had the chance to sit down with Professor Myles Allen, internationally renowned climate scientist and professor at the University of Oxford. Professor Allen advocates for a more accurate method to measure the warming impacts of global methane emissions and discusses how cattle producers can play a positive role on a pathway towards climate neutrality. The questions and views presented in this episode are not the opinions of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. This conversation is intended to get the perspective of Professor Myles Allen and is not representative of NCBA’s views or policy priorities.
The feedlot industry is a critical cog in the cattle supply chain, and it has to be flexible and able to adapt to challenges that emerge. TELUS Agriculture team members Kee Jim, DVM; Matt Quinn, BSc, MSc, PhD; and Calvin Booker, DVM, MVetSc chat with us today about factors like technology, research, data and more when it comes to the feedlot sector of our industry. They also discuss future innovations to support production and increase efficiency.Sponsored by: https://www.telus.com/agcg
Newly elected NCBA President Mark Eisele and his family own and operate the King Ranch in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Mark transitioned into management and ownership of the King Ranch in a unique way. Hear Mark’s story and learn why it has shaped his goals for the industry, especially for young leaders in the cattle industry, as he takes leadership of NCBA.#cattle #ranching #familyfarm #rancher #cattleranch
El Niño has already passed its peak according to meteorologist Matt Makens. Joining the podcast again, Matt shares what producers can expect as we shift back toward a La Niña later this year. He also dives into weather tools like phone apps, historical data and more.
Beef and protein play a vital role in a runner’s training plan, or any athlete’s. Father and son Tom and Jacob Fanning are runners on Oklahoma’s Team Beef and share their love for exercise as well as how they share the nutritional benefits of beef as they compete in races. Hear how their overlapping passions for running and beef make a great combination.
NCBA CEO Colin Woodall sits down once again with Lane to dissect what happened for the cattle industry in 2023, looking at the Farm Bill, WOTUS, and other policy. Hear as they discuss what opportunities lie ahead for producers and what an election year is going to mean for important policy priorities for cattlemen and women. Plus, Rabo AgriFinance Senior Beef Analyst shares about beef supplies and market prices heading into the new year.
California cattleman and working cattle dog breeder and trainer, Bill Dale shares how he grew up using dogs on the ranch. Learn how he got started training dogs and how man’s best friend can also be man’s best ranch hand.
The holidays are here, so Lane sat down with Don Rea and Greg Kimmel of The Meat Board, a specialty butcher shop in Fort Worth, Texas, to ask them what the holiday rush is like for a butcher shop. The Meat Board has a store front near the historic stockyards where they sell cuts of beef and lunch specials, and they have ties to their product with Don being a beef producer himself.
Oklahoma sisters and veterans, Erica Boyer and Roxane Mock, give us a glimpse into their lives of being active in the Armed Forces and the beef industry. Erica and Roxane talk about how they balance Beacon Hill Ranch, their military and civilian careers. They open up about the hard things they have seen in service and how this has transferred into their lives as cattle producers.
Animal husbandry can make or break your profitability. Pre-conditioning is a key step in ensuring calves maintain their health during weaning. Joining our conversation today to share their tips on how you can get one step ahead with your calves this fall are Dr. Brett Terhaar, Dr. T. Robin Falkner and Dr. M. Wayne Ayers with Elanco Animal Health.To learn more about how to maximize calf profitability this fall, talk to your Elanco representative or visit https://farmanimal.elanco.com/us/OneStepAhead
Lane Nordlund talks with Sierra Jepsen, founder of Butcher Solutions, LLC, who is revolutionizing the meat processing industry through accessible meat science education. Discover cutting-edge techniques, industry trends, and best practices to empower processors of all sizes to excel in their craft. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, tune in to stay ahead of the curve and shape the future of meat processing.
Grimmius Cattle Co., a family-run calf-feeding and seedstock operation in Central California, employs nearly 800 people. Austin Flores, Chief Operating Officer, shares how the company grew from 100 to 800 employees and what they prioritize for training opportunities, benefits, and overall company culture. Tune in to hear the challenges he’s faced along the way and how the company acquired skilled, hardworking employees without outsourcing recruitment.
Raising cattle is a business, and nobody knows that better than Pete Bonds and his three daughters. Pete shares what it was like to take over the ranch at 18 and create a prosperous business strategy. Two of his daughters, Missy and April, join to talk about their Non-Hormone Treated Cattle program and raising American Quarter Horses. The family-run Bonds Ranch has evolved and adapted over the years but has always put family first.
Consumers’ trust in the handling and food safety of our products is crucial to furthering the profitability of the U.S. cattle industry. The National Beef Quality Audit, completed every 5 years, is a way to monitor the quality of beef going into grocery stores. When it began in 1991, issues like injection site lesions, foreign objects in the muscle, and animal mobility were prevalent. Today, through producer efforts, these issues have improved. But other challenges have arisen. Consumers want traceability with their food and to know the livestock were handled well. Hear from Dr. Keith Belk and Michaela Clowser on the most recent audit.
NCBA officers Todd Wilkinson, Mark Eisele, and Buck Wehrbein visit with Lane at the annual Summer Business Meeting about the grassroots policy. Whether it’s the Farm Bill, cell-cultured protein products, or grazing regulations, cattlemen and women gathered in San Diego to voice their opinions and help determine how NCBA will address these challenges in the coming year. Like Wilkinson said, “I have never been involved in an organization that has as big of an impact as NCBA does.”
Joined again by Meteorologist Matt Makens, he explains how El Niño is affecting different regions of the country. Extreme weather patterns aren't going away, they're just shifting gears. From flooding this spring to extreme heat waves across the country, what’s next for 2023? This podcast is sponsored by AgRisk Advisors and WSR Insurance.
Paul Dykstra with Certified Angus Beef joins us to dive into what is happening with cattle prices and inventory this year, and explain what he expects to come in the future. He gives tips on how you, as a producer, can use market information to your advantage.
Kacy Atkinson is a Wyoming cattle producer and creator of the 10 Miles Past Nowhere blog and social media. She describes what it is like to live miles outside the nearest town. She also shares her personal story of turning loss into an open door for conversations about transition planning to ensure their family doesn’t lose their ranch that began in the 1880s.
Young Cattlemen’s Conference provides young leaders with a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of the industry, from production to the consumer. Montana Rancher Jake Feddes YCC Chair and North Dakota rancher Calli Thorne share more on the 9-day trip that took 72 producers across the nation.
Our guest, Lettie McKinney, is nothing if not busy! She joins us while she is in the tractor, planting cotton. Lettie and her father manage their family farm and run MC- Meat Co., a direct-to-consumer beef business that Lettie started. From experimenting with growing cotton, to opening a wedding venue on her property, Lettie has added multiple revenue streams to the operation so it can succeed in the future!
Whether it be cybercrime, cattle rustling, or illegal imports, cattle producers are being protected by people like Special Ranger Scott Williamson and Captain Justin Smith. Hear about what types of crime are becoming more popular in agriculture and the cattle industry and what different states are doing to protect their producers, as well as what simple steps you can take to protect yourself.
Jordan O’Neill, a beef cattle nutritionist, joins the conversation today to share what she has seen on her own operation and with her customers as drought impacts cattle numbers and cattle nutrition across the country. New technologies have opened doors to reducing feed waste and increasing feed efficiency. Jordan has advice for all types of producers to improve their cattle feeding techniques.
The Mannix Brothers Ranch in Helmville, Montana, can’t be described as just a cattle ranch. They also manage timber, a direct-to-consumer grass-finished beef program, and most recently, a restaurant. With a large family operation, diversification was inevitable, yet the long-held ideals of conservation and work ethic haven’t ceased. David and Randy Mannix join the podcast to explain the evolution of the operation.
Texas cattlemen and father and son, Donell and Tucker Brown of RA Brown Ranch, a historic ranch in Throckmorten where they raise commercial and purebred cattle as well as registered Quarter horses. The Brown family is an exceptional example of generational transfer and creating opportunity for each new generation that wants to be a part of the ranch. When family operations wonder if they need to adapt to survive, as Tucker put it, “You don’t have to change, but you do have to compete with those who do.”
Cattle producers across the country deal with predators that are listed as “endangered” or “threatened” under the Endangered Species Act. Whether those are panthers in the Southeast or mountain lions in the West, these predators are killing livestock, and producers are often limited in their ability to protect their animals and receive compensation for losses. We sit down with guests from California, Colorado, Wisconsin and Washington, D.C., to discuss what NCBA and states are doing to protect producers.
We are back with Meteorologist Matt Makens to discuss the shifting weather patterns we are seeing in the U.S. during the start of 2023. Matt and Lane discuss the potential for cattle producers in the West to finally see some relief in their ongoing drought. Is this a sign of a transition from La Niña to El Niño? Matt also gives a regional forecast for all parts of the U.S. to help producers manage risk for the year. This podcast was brought to you in partnership with AgRisk and WSR Insurance.
Todd Wilkinson, newly elected NCBA president, shares what it means to him to be surrounded by family when he took the helm at the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show. Todd discusses the challenges he and his family have faced, and he sees many operations facing, when it comes to transferring the farm or ranch to the next generation, dealing with those awkward conversations amongst family members. In addition, he explains what his issues he will prioritize as he leads NCBA this year.
The largest and leading beef cattle association in the U.S., the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, is celebrating its 125th anniversary. Past Presidents Jo Ann Smith, the first female president, and Craig Uden join to share what has changed throughout the past decades. Where was the cattle industry 50 years ago? Where is it headed in the next 50 years? We cover it all in this conversation!
Kristin Torres and Thad Larson of NCBA join Lane to give you all the details about the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show. Hear what meetings they recommend you participate in and learn more about the most exciting events, including the Friday night concert. Plus, hear what star will be joining producers for the Opening General Session.
Being in the cattle business means you need to be mindful of the environment and your economic viability. The way data is collected on operations today looks dramatically different than it did 50 or even 15 years ago with new technology held literally in your fingertips. But it can be daunting to look at this data and determine what is useful to ensure that generations after you can ranch. Lane spoke with a local Wyoming rancher and a data expert to talk about the best way to start and how to use data in a variety of ways.
Some farmers and ranchers are beginning to test the waters of virtual fencing with their cattle, especially those in rough, rugged country. Montana rancher Leo Barthelmess describes the way virtual fencing technology has changed his operation and given him more knowledge about his herd.
Take a page out of the Grinch’s book and carve up the roast beef this holiday season. Steve Wald and Alex Reitz, masterminds of NCBA’s Culinary Center, look at trending holiday beef dishes and reflect on popular recipes of the past. If you’re looking for a new recipe to impress your guests this season or are just looking for a way to spice up a timeless, traditional recipe, tune in to this episode for tips from the experts themselves.
A good glass of wine pairs well with a steak dinner. But wine grapes might also pair well with your cattle herd. Avenales Ranch in San Luis Obispo, California, is a family-run ranch that has been in California for more than 140 years. Steve Sinton and his son Daniel speak with us about the ranch’s diverse business model which includes grapes, organic and grassfed beef, commercial cattle, and a hunting club. Hear how they decided to branch out into new ventures and the trials and success they have seen.
We are joined by NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane and NCBA member and campaign consultant David Watts to take a deep dive into the 2022 midterm elections. Nothing is final yet, but Ethan and David discuss how the Senate and House will likely look for the next two years and how this will affect cattle producers on issues like the 2023 Farm Bill, cattle markets, trade and more. They examine which state races had surprising results and, of those elected, who will be allies to cattle producers moving forward.
The U.S. beef supply and cattle population is the safest in the world, but that doesn’t mean we are immune to what is happening outside our borders. Foreign animal diseases, specifically Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), could have drastic impacts on our industry. Dr. Julia Herman is on the show to talk about preventative measures, the Secure Beef Supply Plan, and her personal experience seeing FMD up close.
How do you hire in today’s job market? The long-term viability of U.S. cattle production is largely dependent on our workforce, and it is important for employers to know what their employees value to retain quality and skilled staff. Nick Jorgensen, South Dakota cattle producer, and Dr. Russell Plaschka, with the Kansas Department of Agriculture, discuss what is causing a labor shortage, how it provides a challenge to cattlemen and women, and what opportunities employers can use to their advantage. They also examine what will entice young hires to come back to the farm or ranch and how to maintain a sustainable workforce.
Jonathon Black, a young West Virginia cattle farmer, balances an off-farm job with raising commercial cattle. While his family has experience in farming, he has ventured off into production agriculture on his own. His passion for the industry has led him to advocate on behalf of beef production. Raising cattle is not for the faint of heart, and Lane and Jonathon talk about the challenge being a young, new producer presents and how he is overcoming those hurdles.
Cryptocurrency is making its way into the cattle industry and food production. Jaclyn Wilson, with Flying Diamond Beef, tells us about her trial using Non-Fungible Tokens to monitor and track a group of steers. How could this technology impact production and provide added value to you? Listen now to find out.
The elected leaders of the cattle industry, NCBA President Don Schiefelbein, President-Elect Todd Wilkinson, and Vice President Mark Eisele, talk with Lane about grassroots policy being shaped at the Cattle Industry Summer Business Meeting. These three cattlemen share what their year of service has looked like, the topics most important to cattle producers right now, and what we can expect from Washington, D.C., in the next six months.
Kendall Whatley, Kendra Orozco and Terryn Drieling all share their experiences and love for the cattle industry through different avenues. Whether it be through photography or owning a small business, these ladies use their outlets to tell consumers about the benefits of beef and highlight the responsible practices of cattlemen and women. Kendall, Kendra and Terryn were ambassadors for the 2022 Cattle Industry Convention, giving them the chance to encourage their peers to attend the top cattle event of the year.
Cattlemen and women know what it means to live in harmony with the land, the wildlife, and the livestock. And no one knows it better than the Environmental Stewardship Award Winners. 2021 Region IV (Texas) and Region VI (Utah) ESAP winners share the history of their family operations and how they have overcome obstacles to ensure they can continue to do what they love – raise cattle.
The National Corn Growers Association and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association are committed partners on education and conservation. Cattle feed is one of the largest uses of corn byproducts, and like U.S. cattle producers, corn growers prioritize caring for the land and reducing their footprint. Hear from Troy Schneider, cattle rancher and farmer, and NCBA President Don Schiefelbein to hear the unique advantages of the corn and cattle combination.
Fourth-generation Iowa cattle farmer Kellie Lasack shares the “real side of farming” with consumers and producers alike on social media and through her blog. Lasack shares why it’s important for cattle producers to live their best lives through an appreciation for agriculture and the rural lifestyle.
Clinicians Curt Pate and Ron Gill have decades of experience between them on how to safely handle livestock and create environments for proper animal handling. Curt and Ron share important tips that can improve the way you handle your cattle and can increase consumers’ trust. Hear about the upcoming Stockmanship and Stewardship tours that you can attend and see Curt and Ron present live demonstrations.
John Fargher grew up on an expansive cattle and sheep ranch in South Australia, and he knows the importance of having a proper calf management plan. Steve Wooten, 2020 ESAP Winner from Colorado, can sympathize with the severe drought and wildfires Fargher has seen in Australia. These two cattle ranchers join Lane to discuss why tools and technology have dramatically improved their operations. With AgriWebb’s technology, preparing and managing all dimensions of raising cattle – from calf management to conservation – are made much simpler.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. It’s not easy to talk about, but we need to. Stress is common amongst farmers and ranchers due to price uncertainty, weather, rising input costs and more. Kate Downes with New York Farm Net and Maggie Hanna with Colorado Cattlemen’s Ag Land Trust tell us why farmers and ranchers are driven to depression, drug addiction and suicide, and they share signs that you or someone you love is struggling. There are resources across the country for rural mental health assistance, and we hope you will take advantage of them.
In these unprecedented times, there are many factors that you can’t control – like weather and markets. So why wouldn’t you take advantage of the things you can control? Horn flies are a key insect of concern for cattle on pasture. Central Life Sciences representative Paul Kropp gives advice on how to manage these pests and describes how you can mitigate losses in the process. Take control of your herd’s health and minimize any horn fly problems you may have.
During the 2022 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show, Staci, Macey and Emma Hurst joined us to discuss what it looks like to be a woman-owned and run cattle operation. Macey and Emma, along with their mother, Staci, run a registered Black Angus herd in Missouri and sell their beef direct-to-consumer. These ladies also have a heart for the blue and gold FFA jackets. Listen to their unique story and perspective on the cattle industry.
Weather conditions have created a variety of obstacles for cattle producers in the last year. Ongoing drought has left grazing lands vulnerable to weed infestations. It’s critical for producers to stay ahead of weed troubles early in the season, so resources go to nutritionally valuable forages. We are joined by Will Hatler, field scientist with Corteva Agriscience, as we discuss management strategies to help land recover from drought and other challenges producers may face this year.
Cattlemen and women have been conserving and stewarding the land for decades. They know the importance of leaving the land better than they found it so it can be passed on to their children and grandchildren. Lane Nordlund visits with 2021 Region V (Montana), III (Iowa), and VII (South Dakota) Environmental Stewardship Award Program winners as they describe what sustainability looks like on their operations, and the challenges each of them face in different parts of the country. Each of these families know it is crucial to be a part of the conversation and voice of sustainable, long-lasting agriculture.
NCBA, as a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, provides training and resources for consumers and producers alike to become strong advocates for the beef industry through the Masters of Beef Advocacy program. We sit down with Paul Dybedahl and Chandler Mulvaney from NCBA to discuss the opportunities of the MBA and to share an exciting new program – the Trailblazers. Markie Hagerman, 2022 Advocate of the Year, shares her journey to influence and encourages others to share their story!
The Federation of State Beef Councils, on behalf of the Beef Checkoff, has once again partnered with the Daytona International Speedway to sponsor the 41st season-opening race for the NASCAR Xfinity Series - the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.® 300. NASCAR Xfinity Series driver, Jeb Burton, joins us ahead of the big race to talk about continuing his father and uncle’s racing legacy, and the impact family tradition has on him, much like many cattle ranchers across the country can relate to.
Don Schiefelbein, a seed stock breeder and cattle feeder from Minnesota, took the role of NCBA president at the 2022 Annual Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show. Owning and operating Schiefelbein Farms with his father, seven brothers and three nephews, Schiefelbein knows how to work collaboratively with others and lead a team to success. He sits down with Lane to share his expectations and aspirations for NCBA in the year ahead.
As catastrophic wildfires continue to impact the Western U.S., ranchers like Mark Roeber and their livestock play a critical role in fuels reduction on the nations public lands. Roeber is the fourth generation on his family’s ranch in Paonio, Colorado, which was homesteaded in 1889 by his great grandfather. Mark is Vice President of the Public Lands Council, and gives his insight on the role ranchers and livestock play in the management of the nations public lands.
Happy New Year! The cattle industry saw a lot of changes in 2021 under the Biden administration from the passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to the implementation of a trade deal with Japan and much more in between. We talk with NCBA CEO Colin Woodall and Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane to hear their expectations for the coming year. What has changed since the beginning of 2021? What challenges can cattle producers expect to face in 2022? What goals will NCBA prioritize this year? Listen in to catch all the details!
The holiday season is the perfect time to reflect on memories shared with family and friends that might inspire tears of gratitude or tears of laughter. Everyone has stories to tell about holiday shenanigans or heartfelt traditions shared with loved ones. On this episode of Cattlemen’s Call, we are joined by NCBA President-Elect Don Schiefelbein and Policy Division Chair Mark Eisele as they recount holiday tales from their ranches. Hear what anecdotes come to mind when they think of the holiday season. They also share what has shaped their year as officers for NCBA and what they are most proud of. Get to know your NCBA leadership through their personal stories and thoughts. Happy Holidays!
Cattlemen and women are working together to open small, locally-owned processing facilities across the U.S. We are joined by Derek Thompson, one of the owners of NextGen Cattle Co. and co-owner of Missouri Prime Beef Packers in Pleasant Hope, MO. After facing processing difficulties that hurt many cattle producers during COVID-19, Missouri Prime Beef Packers opened in early 2021 to offer custom processing and safe, fresh meat to their clients.
Today, we recognize the veterans who have served our country and given time to protecting us and our loved ones. We are joined by brothers John and Peter Lehning from New York who followed in their father’s footsteps and joined the U.S. Air Forces. Both brothers became pilots — John flew aerial refueling tankers and Peter flew medical evacuation helicopters. Their brotherly banter is a debate between which is better — planes or helicopters. Now, the brothers work together to manage Lehning Farms where they direct-market their beef to customers looking for whole, halves or quarters of beef. These brothers share their unique story of military service, ranching and community involvement.
Marvin Frink served 15 years in the U.S. Army, risking his life in various tours across the world. After returning home, Marvin wasn’t the same. But with the help of his father, Marvin found purpose and companionship through raising cattle in Red Springs, N.C. Agriculture and raising beef gave Marvin a sense of responsibility and value again. Today, Marvin runs Briarwood Cattle Farm with his wife, Tanisha, and their children. Listen to how they are expanding their business and giving back to the community.
Across the country this year, cattlemen and women have been burdened by natural disasters such as hurricanes, drought and wildfires. We sat down with Matt Makens to ask him what the weather conditions are currently like for the U.S. and where they are headed as we enter winter. He forecasts the drought situation facing the West and talks about large-scale weather events like El Niño/La Niña. Matt also shares his region-by-region expectations for winter. Ranchers can plan and prepare their operation with a good knowledge of what weather patterns will look like in the future.
During the 2021 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show, we had the opportunity to interview Bryan Kozak, of Southern Rhythm Farms in Kentucky. We are also joined by Randal Morris from Micro Technologies, the sponsor of the Cattlemen’s Connection booth at the trade show. Hear about Kozak’s experience as a stocker producer. He shares with us the current challenges in this sector, what opportunities producers have, and what tools help him enhance his operation.
Gene Copenhaver joins us on this episode of Cattlemen’s Call to discuss the Product of the USA label. The Virginia cattlemen has been an influential member of the grassroots policy process NCBA relies on to improve policy conditions for U.S. cattle producers. Listen in as Gene explains the benefit of source-verified labels and the importance of a transparent producer/consumer relationship. Additionally, learn how you, as a producer, can take advantage of AMS Process Verified Programs.
In this episode of Cattlemen’s Call we are joined by Steve Wooten, one of the owners of Beatty Canyon Ranch, who shares his experience and wisdom stewarding a six-generation ranch in Kim, Colo. Steve talks about the importance of maintaining the ranch so his children and grandchildren have the opportunity to make it home one day, if they choose. We all know there are many challenges when it comes to cattle ranching, especially in a drought-prone area. Steve discusses the sustainable practices he and his family implement on their ranch to maintain forage, improve wildlife habitat, increase native specie populations, and still manage a profitable operation.
Cattle producers Mike Williams, Brantley Ivey and James Vaughn are NCBA Sustainability Goals Task Force Members. Joined by Dr. Jason Sawyer of the King Ranch Institute, they share their insights on NCBA’s new sustainability goals, released at the 2021 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show. This group of cattle producers, family men and environmental stewards tell how these goals were developed and how they will be achieved.
Kiah Twisselman, Courtenay DeHoff and Macey Hurst join us again at the 2021 Cattle Convention and NCBA Trade Show. These women are pursuing their passions and ambitions in livestock production, raising cattle and advocacy. They have pursued new avenues of business and new platforms since we last spoke with them, but they continue to share their stories of overcoming adversity in agriculture.
Cowboy hats are an essential component and tool for cattlemen and women’s daily lives. Master hat maker Trent Johnson owns Greeley Hat Works in Greeley, CO. Since 1909, Greeley Hat Works provides not only a service, but an outlet of personal expression for anyone interested in wearing a hat. Trent discusses the process and history of creating cowboy hats. As well, how the iconic hat creates a connection with beef consumers worldwide with cattle producers in America.
5th generation Colorado rancher Coby Buck shares how his family is optimizing their grazing, improving livestock performance and making better decisions with insights through AgriWebb’s ranch management software. The easy way to keep better records in real-time – even offline. Get better insights to make decisions on the ground or in the office. And it’s all unique to your ranch.
Over 1,000 people move to the state of Florida each day. With an increasing population, Florida cattle producers have many challenges they face as they raise cattle in the Sunshine State. Florida Cattlemen’s Association President Gene Lollis and Executive. Dir. Jim Handley discuss the grassroots efforts the association utilizes to advocate for cattle producers, combating misinformation and why it’s important to share beefs sustainability story with consumers and lawmakers.
Loses from horn flies cost the cattle industry an estimated $1 billion each year due to the stress they inflict and the disease they spread. Oklahoma’s Mark Upton is a trusted name in cattle health. As a cattleman himself and the Dir. of Sales for Livestock Feed Additive brands at Central Life Sciences, he understands the importance of horn fly control. He shares how Altosid® IGR and management strategies can improve cattle health and keep producers profitable.
Why do cattlemen and women need to set the narrative of sustainable beef? Jim Strickland of BlackBeard’s Ranch in Florida and Clay Burtrum Chair of the Federation of State Beef Councils of Oklahoma answer the “Cattlemen’s Call” and share firsthand knowledge, experiences and research all producers will benefit from.
Health and beef advocate Kia Twisselman answers the “Cattlemen’s Call” once again. She has shared her story of bettering her life on Good Morning America, The Kelly Clarkson Show and People Magazine. She continues to inspire others who are also on a journey to health and happiness. As always, when sharing her story, she continues to be an advocate for beef and how the protein is a part of a healthy lifestyle.
With today’s current grain prices, managing and working pastures is becoming more important than ever. West Virginia Rancher Jeff Clark answers the “Cattlemen’s Call” on this essential topic. As Market Development Specialist at Corteva Agriscience, he shares how grazing can help producers put more pounds on their calves and cattle. From simple things producers can do today to help improve their pastures – no matter where they’re located – and how grazing can affect the overall health of your herd.
https://www.corteva.us/products-and-solutions/pasture-management.html
The Beef. It's What’s For Dinner. brand partnered with the Daytona International Speedway to sponsor the 40th season-opening race for the NASCAR Xfinity Series - The Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.® 300. The promotion reached millions of consumers on national TV and social media. Oklahoma Rancher Clay Burtrum is Chair of the Federation of State Beef Councils and Wyoming Rancher Mark Eisele Chair of NCBA’s Policy Division, answer the “Cattlemen’s Call” and tell the story of all the collaborative work that it took to pull it all off.
Improvements in cattle genetics are making the cattle business more sustainable. Kansas State University’s Dr. Bob Weaber discusses improvements in cattle generics and how producers can utilize proven, new and upcoming tools and techniques to become more profitable and sustainable.
Sustainability and livestock production go hand-in-hand. So how do cattle producers direct the sustainability conversation? NCBA CEO Colin Woodall shares how advocacy, profitability, learning from consumers and finding mentors in the industry will aid the livestock industry in being the leader in sustainability and climate policy.
The 2020 Election has brought changes to Washington D.C. Ethan Lane, NCBA VP of Government Affairs, shares insight on how the changes may impact the cattle industry and how NCBA will continue to work and advocate for cattlemen and women no matter the political climate.
Three college friends put their heads together and took the “Amazon” approach to selling beef. Leaning heavily on the direct to door shipping, and online sales and marketing. Luke Frantz shares more on the Illinois based business Graized.
https://graized.com
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has been transformative in every corner of the economy. The good news is that consumers are choosing beef more often as they adapt to cooking more at home. Nebraska feedlot manager Buck Wehrbein, 2020 NCBA Federation Division Chair, and Shawn Darcy, NCBA Sr. Dir. of Market Research, answer the Cattlemen’s Call to expand more on the topic.
How will the 2020 election results impact the cattle business? NCBA V.P. of Government Affairs Ethan Lane answers that question and more when he answers the Cattlemen’s Call.
Many know Kevin Ochsner as the host of the TV show Cattlemen to Cattlemen. But he stays busy when not in front of the camera. The rancher and businessman gives his insight on the livestock industry and lessons he’s learned along the way.
Mike Drinnin and his family own and operate two commercial feedlot locations in Columbus and Palmer, Nebraska with a combined capacity of 13000 head. As the immediate past president of the Nebraska Cattlemen, Mike is a proven leader in the cattle industry.
Jake Feddes and his family raise Red Angus Cattle in Montana. They also have a branded beef brand. One day they got a call that the local meat shop was for sale. Learn more about how a ranch family took a leap of faith and bought a butcher shop.
Jared Wareham, from Deepwater, Missouri has followed a non-traditional path into the livestock business. As a self-proclaimed “ranch geek”, the first-generation cattleman shares how he has committed himself to become a better stockman and leader in agriculture by continuing to learn, network with industry leaders, and much more.
Doug Beaton and his family ranch on the northside of the Big Island of Hawai’i. Beaton discusses the opportunities and challenges ranchers face raising cattle on a tropical island and much more.
Setting up a calf for success starts before calving season. Ron Scott, Ph.D. and Zack Dombek, DVM with Purina, share important information cattlemen and women should consider from breeding all the way to weaning.
From price discovery, the impact of COVID-19, meat processing, 2020 Election and much more, NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane answers the “Cattlemen’s Call” sharing insight on policy and politics.
U.S. Marine Veteran Bill Broadie is a fourth-generation Kansas cattleman. Broadie founded the All American Beef Battalion to support service members and their families, both past and present. The group organizes and sponsors steak feeds, entertainment, programs, meetings, and projects with Service Members and their families. https://www.steaksfortroops.com/
5th generation rancher Jaclyn Wilson calls the Sandhills of Nebraska home. Wilson has multiple enterprises ranging from her commercial red Angus cattle herd, a cattle genetics recipient (recip) business, to building a direct to consumer beef brand. She also finds time to be a leader in the cattle industry and advocate for rural America.
Clint Berry is a well-known face across the countryside. The fifth-generation cattlemen’s work in the livestock sector ranges from cow/calf, seedstock, marketing, processing and the feed yard. He answers the “Cattlemen’s Call” by sharing his thoughts on the cattle business, advice for producers to enhance their herd and much more.
Picture: Superior Sunrise
Lindsey Fulton Loken, owner of Blondies Butcher Shop in Wanamingo, MN, shares her story of being a small-town butcher, being a bridge between producers and consumers and sharing advice for those who are interested in the art of meat.
There are many successes and challenges in creating a direct to consumer beef business. Jake Perino of Illinois, Joe Lowe of Kentucky and Traves Merrick from Missouri share their experiences and insight in the direct to the consumer marketplace. They give advice and answer questions that many in the countryside must weigh when considering the direct to consumer model. http://www.facebook.com/TheFarmShop https://twitter.com/OakHollowAngus https://gleondaangus.com/
California’s Cindy Tews was born and raised in the saddle. She co-owns Fresno Livestock Commission with her father, Phil Tews. Her family also runs a fall calving operation. An active member of the California’s Cattlemen’s Association, she is active on the local, state, and national level advocating for livestock producers.
In this edition of Cattlemen’s Call, NCBA leaders discuss the impact of Coronavirus on their lives and families, as well as how the pandemic is impacting the entire beef industry. Tune in and hear their first-hand experience and what NCBA is doing to help support the beef industry during this time of crisis.
Living a mile from the Mexican Border, Arizona rancher Dean Fish Ph.D. develops problem-solving research for his fellow beef producers. Fish is the ranch manager for the Santa Fe Ranch Foundation and a member of the NCBA Stockmanship and Stewardship Team. As a beef industry consultant, he shares his insight and thoughts on the beef industry in the latest Cattlemen’s Call Podcast.
Blackbeard’s Ranch in Myakka, Florida was recognized as the 2019 Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP) winner. Jim Strickland with Blackbeard’s Ranch and Matt Lohr, Chief of the Natural Resource Conservation Service, (NRCS) join the podcast. They share insight on how conservation practices keep ranches viable and sustainable and why cattlemen and women must be vocal about all they do in the countryside.
Damon Palmer & Scott Flynn with Corteva Agriscience share insight on tools and management systems that cattlemen and women utilize to improve pastureland health.
Kiah Twisselman, Courtenay DeHoff and Macey Hurst are well known agricultural influencers on social media. They share their stories of growing up in livestock production, challenges they’ve faced in their endeavors and how everyone has a role to play in telling agricultures story.
From his own start in production agriculture in the 1980s to his creativity in his livestock handling equipment, Jon Mollhagen has revolutionized the livestock industry. Along with daughter and son, the Mollhagen’s own and operate Moly Manufacturing that makes products like the SILENCER Chute and the TurretGate. Jon looks back on his time in FFA, ranching and manufacturing.
Dan McCarty’s deep bass voice is known by many. The Colorado rancher raises Gelbvieh cattle, is a talented auctioneer, and is now the voice of beef promotion. He answers the Cattlemen’s Call and shares insight on his unique ranching operation and his passion for the industry.
Sustainability. Agriculture. Livestock. Rancher Kevin Kester, Ben Weinheimer V.P. of the Texas Cattle Feeders Association and Don Close with Rabo AgriFiance discuss the phrase sustainable agriculture. The discussion centers around how sustainability has changed consumer preference. In addition, how producers are telling their sustainability story along with other examples of how producers can find opportunity and profit in the sustainability conversation.
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NCBA President Jennifer Houston shares the story of how her roots in Tennessee agriculture led her to become a leader in the beef industry.
Photo: NCBA https://www.ncba.org/cattlemenscall.aspx
Get a behind the scenes look at the role NCBA plays in Washington D.C. CEO Colin Woodall and V.P. of Government Affairs Ethan Lane pull back the curtain to explain how NCBA advocates in the Beltway for the grassroots policy their members set.
Skye and Penny Krebs raise cattle and sheep near Ione, Oregon. The Krebs share insight on their diversified operation, tips on having a happy marriage on the range and the importance of being involved in agriculture advocacy.
Bill Rishel can be described as a true pioneer in the beef industry. Heading west with a dream and the determination to succeed, Bill has lived the American Dream.
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The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association has named Colin Woodall as the associations new Chief Executive Officer. As Woodall takes the reins of NCBA, he joins the Cattlemen’s Call Podcast to share tales of his youth and work as an advocate for agriculture.
Cattlemen and women maintain 250 million acres of U.S. public land. The Public Lands Council (PLC) advocates for these western ranchers who preserve our nation’s natural resources while providing vital food and fiber to the nation and the world. Joining Cattlemen’s Call to discuss ranching on public lands are ranchers Eric Jennings of South Dakota and California’s Dave Daley and Ethan Lane Exc. Dir of PLC and NCBA’s Federal Lands.
https://www.ncba.org/cattlemenscall.aspx
In this episode, we focus on the 2019 Young Cattlemen’s Conference. Our guests include Kahla Geis Mills of Wyoming, Chisholm Christensen of Montana and Andy Bishop from Kentucky. These young cattle producers share their experience of traveling 10 days, to 3 cities with 50 other producers. They describe their experience of learning about all aspects of the cattle industry: from pasture, to plate, to policy.
In this episode, we sit down with young producers Jake Feddes of Montana, Reiss Bruning of Nebraska, Sage Weston of Utah. They discuss entering the family farm and ranch and all the challenges that come along with it. From mastering ranch management to balancing family and work, we cover it all. Our hope in sharing authentic stories of our peers is that we learn and laugh together.