The Bovine: Recent Episodes
Alberta Beef Producers
There’s a lot to talk about in the Alberta beef industry. Join us as we interview researchers, ranchers, ABP delegates and staff, chefs, nutritionists, and others all along the beef supply chain. You’ll hear content as diverse as the guests who bring it – from cooking beef to managing pastureland, the latest tech to great entertainment, cattle markets to weather predictions, and more.
Send us a text
When it comes to weather in Western Canada, unpredictability is the only constant!
Kara Mastel sits down with veteran meteorologist David Spence to unpack Alberta’s wild 2025 weather—from early-season heat waves to record July rainfall.
They explore shifting patterns that challenge old expectations, the “new normal” for drought and storms, and how AI is reshaping weather forecasting.
Along the way, David shares insight on regional extremes, the delicate dance of rain and irrigation for agriculture, and what farmers might expect as summer winds down.
Listen For:
3:45 Alberta’s weather in 2025—rain here, drought there
7:20 The “seasonal flip” that turned May hot and July wet
9:35 When drought stops being unusual and becomes the new normal
14:28 Will summer stretch into October? What fall could look like
21:24 How AI is reshaping the future of weather forecasting
GUEST: David Spence, retired Chief Meteorologist for CTV
LinkedIn | X | Website
CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL
Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a text
Is your hayfield ready — or are you risking a nutrient disaster?
In this episode of The Bovine podcast, host Kara Mastel dives into the delicate art and science of haying under tough conditions with expert ruminant nutritionist Brianna Sentes from Beef Smart.
They unpack when to cut for maximum protein and digestibility, how weather forecasts can help (or mislead) your timing, why cutting height matters for regrowth, and how to protect hay from mold and nutrient loss.
Listen For:
4:39 What Is NDF? And Why Should You Care?
7:30 Haying in a Drought: Cut or Wait?
11:08 Research Insights: How Cutting Height Affects Regrowth
14:23 Tricks to Speed Up Dry Down
25:10 Bale Size and Density: Surprising Impacts on Loss
26:23 How to Avoid Hay Heating and Nutrient Burnoff
GUEST: Breanna Sentes, Beef Smart
Website | LinkedIn
CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL
Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a text
What does it take to lead a nation’s cattle industry through crisis, change, and global acclaim—without ever losing sight of the ranch?
Kara Mastel is joined by Dennis Laycraft—newly inducted into the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame—to reflect on his remarkable 40-year career championing Canada’s beef industry.
From a childhood in the Porcupine Hills to national leadership roles, Laycraft recounts his navigation through watershed moments like BSE, international trade wars, and a global pandemic.
He shares stories of resilience, innovation, and unity that helped elevate Canadian beef to world-class status and positioned the industry for a strong, sustainable future.
Listen For:
6:16 The Decade Canada Became an Export Powerhouse
8:43 BSE Hits: The Industry’s Darkest Hour
13:27 Canada’s Retail Rebellion and Barbecue Boom
17:55 The Young Leaders Movement Begins
27:46 McDonald’s, Cargill & The World’s First Sustainable Beef Claim
34:56 Pandemic Adaptation & Drive-In Cattle Sales
42:07 Today’s Market: Record Prices & Future Growth
GUEST: Dennis Laycraft, CCA Vice President
CCA | LinkedIn
CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL
Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a text
Can beef diplomacy really change the global dinner plate?
In this episode of The Bovine, host Kara Mastel sits down with Brodie Haugan, former Alberta Beef Producers Chair and current Canadian Cattle Association rep, fresh off a whirlwind trade mission to Vietnam and the Philippines.
From navigating chaotic intersections without crosswalks to barbecuing ribeyes for top Southeast Asian chefs, Brodie shares the highs, surprises, and valuable lessons from promoting Canadian beef on the world stage.
This conversation offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at how Alberta’s cattle industry is forging relationships abroad, expanding markets, and ensuring that when global leaders sit down to eat, Canadian beef has a seat at the table too.
Listen For:
6:04 Why Southeast Asia? The Strategic Goal Behind the Trip
7:57 Demand: Cuts, Culture & Culinary Traditions
12:41 Boardrooms, Beef & Big Players: Connecting People
16:17 What They Asked: Supply, Not Sustainability
24:33 Efficiency Matters: Why Producer Presence Pays Off
GUEST: Brodie Haugan. Co Chair Domestic Agriculture Policy and Regulations Committee, Canadian
Email | CCA
CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL
Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a text
How do you lead 60,000 cattle operations and still make time for TikTok?
Tyler Fulton might have the answer.
Kara Mastel sits down with the newly minted President of the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) to talk about his whirlwind entry into the role, what it’s like balancing a cow-calf operation while representing ranchers on the national stage, and why trade advocacy and producer engagement are more important than ever.
From urgent trade talks in Washington to grassroots outreach via social media, Tyler shares how relationships — not just regulations — drive the beef industry forward.
Listen For:
5:03 Taking the reins during a trade war
7:27 Why building trust matters more than logic in policy advocacy
9:10 Engaging producers through social media
13:09 Trade as the industry's existential challenge
16:20 Why now is both the most profitable and riskiest time for beef
22:59 U.S. remains irreplaceable, even with tariffs
24:54 Tyler’s advice to young producers: network and speak up
GUEST: TYLER FULTON
Website | LinkedIn | X
Tyler, the current President of CCA, became involved with the organization through his work with the Manitoba Beef Producers. He advocates for cattle farmers and ranchers, emphasizing their role in sustainable food production and aiming to improve Business Risk Management programs in Canada. Tyler, along with his wife Dorelle and their children, operates Tyton Farm Ltd near Birtle, Manitoba, managing 600 cow-calf pairs and a small backgrounding lot. Their farm spans about 5,500 acres, integrating hay, corn, and grain production with their cattle operation.
CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL
Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a text
What if the secret to better beef starts underground?
Kara Mastel is joined by Dr. Jonathan Bennett, associate professor of Plant Ecology at the University of Saskatchewan, to unearth the science behind soil microbiomes and their powerful impact on forage productivity and beef sustainability.
Recorded following the Beef Research Showcase at Lakeland College, the conversation dives into how microbes influence plant health, how cultivar selection affects microbe interactions, and why breeding plants for better microbial relationships could revolutionize pasture management.
From drought resilience to salinity tolerance, Dr. Bennett sheds light on how invisible organisms may hold the key to future-proofing our beef industry—all without a microscope
Listen For:
04:47 – The Soil Microbiome’s Role in Forage Yields
09:05 – Optimizing Plant-Microbe Interactions
16:25 – Can Microbes Help Saline Pastures?
29:37 – Heritability and Breeding for Microbial Compatibility
35:32 – Giving Power Back to the Producer
GUEST: Dr. Jonathan Bennett
Website
Dr. Jonathan Bennett is an Associate Professor at the University of Saskatchewan, specializing in plant ecology with a focus on plant-soil interactions and invasive species management. He holds a PhD from the University of Alberta and has conducted postdoctoral research at the University of Tartu and the University of British Columbia-Okanagan. Dr. Bennett's research aims to enhance our understanding of ecological processes in grasslands, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices and ecosystem conservation.
CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL
Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a text
Is your pasture really ready for the herd? Spring grazing may seem as simple as "green means go," but it’s far more nuanced than that.
Kara Mastel welcomes David MacTaggart, Senior Agriculture Advisor with Strathcona County, to unpack the critical considerations for turning cattle out in spring.
From the risks of early grazing and nitrate concerns to rotational grazing strategies and environmental stewardship, David shares practical, science-backed insights for producers.
They also discuss how to tailor grazing plans to weather extremes like drought, assess forage nutritional quality, and balance herd health with land resilience.
This episode equips producers—new and seasoned alike—with the knowledge to make smart, sustainable spring grazing decisions.
Listen For:
03:24 — Why spring grazing matters
09:59 — Spring frost and nitrate concerns
14:06 — Why rotational grazing is especially important in spring
21:25 — Is bloat a worry with green pastures?
GUEST: David MacTaggart, Agriculture Initiatives Specialist
LinkedIn | X
CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL
Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a text
What if everything you thought you knew about connecting with people was missing one key ingredient?
Kara Mastel sits down with renowned human values expert David Allison, the founder of the Valuegraphics Project, to explore how understanding core human values—not just demographics—can revolutionize communication in agriculture and beyond.
Fresh off his keynote at the Alberta Beef Industry Conference, David shares how values like financial security, personal growth, and happiness are the real drivers behind public support and behavior.
With practical examples and a compelling look at how values-based storytelling can shape perception and build industry allies, this episode is a powerful playbook for beef producers—and anyone—looking to truly connect with audiences.
Listen For:
01:27 – What Are Valuegraphics?
08:56 – Beef = Financial Stability? Let’s Talk Economics
17:43 – Talk About What Works: The Three-Value Rule
28:31 – Demographics Reinforce Stereotypes—Here’s the Fix
GUEST: David Allison
Website | LinkedIn
David Allison is a human values expert, CEO of a global research firm, and 2X best-selling author. As the founder of the Valuegraphics Project, he created the first global inventory of core human values, transforming them into measurable data. David helps major brands like PayPal, Google, and the United Nations Foundation connect with people by honouring their values.
His work is featured in college textbooks and prominent publications like Harvard Business Review and Forbes. His latest book, The Death of Demographics, has been praised as "convincing, insightful, and revolutionary."
CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL
Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a text
What happens when climate change, glaciers, and agriculture collide in Western Canada?
Dr. John Pomeroy, a world-renowned hydrologist and lead of the Global Water Futures program, explores how water systems are shifting in the face of climate change—and what it means for producers, ecosystems, and future planning.
From snowpack and glacier melt to drought prediction, irrigation stress, and even COVID wastewater detection, this conversation dives into both the science and the stakes of water management on the Prairies and beyond.
With surprising findings, promising innovations, and a candid look at what's coming down the pipeline, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who depends on water – everyone.
Listen For:
03:23 – Building Canada’s First National Water Model
07:10 – The Future of Irrigation in Southern Alberta
18:58 – Smarter Crops, Smarter Irrigation: What Tech Can Do
22:41 – Balancing Agriculture and Natural Ecosystems
GUEST: Dr. John Pomeroy
Website | LinkedIn
Dr. John Pomeroy is the Director of the Global Water Futures Programme and its follow-on, the Global Water Futures Observatories Project, at the University of Saskatchewan. He holds multipole prestigious titles, including Canada Research Chair in Water Resources and Climate Change, UNESCO Chair in Mountain Water Sustainability, and Distinguished Professor of Geography. Dr. Pomeroy is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, the American Geophysical Union, and the Royal Geographical Society. He has received numerous awards, including the Walter Langbein Lecture Award and the Miroslaw Romanowski Medal. This research focuses on snow hydrology, climate change impacts, and water quality, and he has authored over 400 research articles and several books.
CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL
Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a text
How do you lead a billion-dollar industry while feeding cattle on the weekend? Meet Doug Roxburgh, the newly elected Chair of Alberta Beef Producers.
From his humble beginnings as a first-generation cattle producer to his deep dive into the world of "cattle politics," Doug shares his passion for the beef industry, the challenges ahead, and his bold vision for Alberta's producers.
Host Kara Mastel guides us through a wide-ranging conversation on everything from tariffs and trade to weather outlooks, business risk management, and the importance of strong communication.
Whether you're deep in the industry or just beef-curious, this episode offers a rare inside look at leadership on the frontlines of Alberta agriculture.
Listen For:
07:15 – Fixing the communication gap
15:04 – Wildlife and regional farming realities
20:48 – Navigating tariffs and global uncertainty
22:46 – Weather warnings and risk management tools
26:15 – Doug’s message to producers: Get involved and stay informed
GUEST: Doug Roxburgh
Doug Roxburgh is the Chair on the Board of Directors for Alberta Beef Producers. He resides near Rimbey, Alberta, with his wife, where they manage a first-generation cattle farm. They are involved in backgrounding their calves, marketing bulls and females, and raising commercial bread heifers. Doug also works as a senior nutrition consultant, assisting producers in creating year-round nutritional plans.
CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL
Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a text
What’s been happening in the Alberta cattle industry?
Kara Mastel gives us a front-row seat to Alberta Beef Producers' (ABP) 2024 Year in Review.
Featuring key ABP staff—this discussion covers the pressing issues, research initiatives, and policy efforts shaping the future of beef production in Alberta.
From risk management and conservation to disease preparedness and marketing, this episode dives deep into the work happening behind the scenes to support Alberta’s beef producers.
Listen For:
04:19 – Investing in Research: Big Impact, Small Budget
12:51 – The Policies That Could Change Beef Production
27:39 – Living Labs: Research in Real-World Conditions
33:35 – The Power of Producer Involvement & Resolutions
GUESTS:
Brad Dubeau, General Manager
Debra Murphy, Stakeholder Relations Manager
Mark Lyseng, Government Relations and Policy
Kaley Edge, VBP Coordinator and ABP Stewardship Lead
Karin Schmid, Beef Production and Extension Lead
CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL
Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a text
When it comes to choosing the right herd bull, should you prioritize size, milk production, or fertility?
In this episode of The Bovine, Kara Mastel sits down with Dr. Carling Matejka, a veterinarian with Agri Health Services, to break down the science and strategy behind herd bull selection.
Carling explains why optimization—not maximization—is the key to a profitable and sustainable herd, highlighting factors like mature cow body weight, expected progeny differences (EPDs), and scrotal circumference.
Listen For:
04:26 EPDs 101: Predicting a bull’s genetic potential
11:28 How breed associations help with bull selection
17:18 Lessons from the dairy industry on milk vs. fertility
26:16 Why breeding soundness exams are crucial
30:02 Expert tips for bull sale day
GUEST: Carling Matejka, DVM
Email | Website | LinkedIn
CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL
Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a text
How do extreme temperature swings impact cattle health, and what can producers do to manage these challenges?
In this episode Kara Mastel sits down with Dr. Brittany Smith, a consulting ruminant nutritionist, to discuss the effects of rapid temperature fluctuations on cattle well-being, feed intake, and immune function.
They break down practical strategies to mitigate stress, from adjusting feeding plans and providing windbreaks to monitoring body condition scores and ensuring water availability.
Dr. Smith also shares insights on how these fluctuations influence calf health, milk production, and long-term herd performance.
Listen For:
2:08 | The physiological impact of cold stress on cattle
4:11 | How cold weather changes cattle behaviour and feeding
14:24 | A simple snow trick to assess body condition
26:16 | Innovating producer strategies for dealing with extreme cold
CONNECT WITH GUEST: Dr Brittany Smith, Beef Smart Consulting
Email | Website | X | Facebook
CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL
Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a text
Are looming U.S. tariffs about to shake up the cattle industry?
Kara Mastel sits down with Brenna Grant, Executive Director of Canfax Research Services, to explore the potential impacts of a proposed 25 per cent U.S. tariff on Canadian goods.
They discuss the deep integration of the beef trade between the two countries, potential market shifts, and strategies producers can use to navigate uncertain times.
From fluctuating exchange rates to exploring alternative markets like Japan and Korea, Brenna provides insightful analysis on what cattle producers can expect and how they can prepare.
Listen For:2:19 | The deep integration of the U.S.-Canada beef trade
5:11 | Exchange rates and their ripple effect on producers
10:40 | The complex web of U.S.-Canada beef processing
14:34 | Canfax resources to support producers
GUEST: BRENNA GRANTBrenna Grant is the Executive Director of Canfax Research Services, where she monitors data from national statistics; oversees the development of new economic models to make annual outlooks and evaluate the impact of management decisions on cost of production. Brenna grew up in SW Saskatchewan on a cow/calf , yearling grasser operation where her family still operates. She holds a BA in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan and a Masters in Applied Economics from Montana State University.
Canfax
CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a text
For this episode of The Bovine, Kara Mastel sits down with father-daughter duo, John and Maria Duynisveld, who own and operate Holdcana Farms, located near Wallace Bay, Nova Scotia.
The Duynisveld's discuss the experience of receiving the 2024 Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA), and dive into more about their operation.
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a text
For this episode of The Bovine, Kara Mastel sits down with Jenna Sarich, Stakeholder Engagement Technical Consultant with Public and Stakeholder Engagement (PSE).
The duo discuss the ins and outs of PSE, results from a recent national sustainability survey, the importance of telling the story from the farm, and more.
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a Text Message.
For this episode of The Bovine, Kara Mastel sits down with Todd Ormann, Vice President of Development at Olds College of Agriculture and Technology.
The duo discuss the recent AgSmart educational expo, upcoming trends in agriculture, changes within the college, and more.
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a Text Message.
For this episode of The Bovine, Kara Mastel went behind-the-scenes with two of the 2024 Environmental Stewardship Award recipients: Courtney and Clayton Taylor, of Taylor Ranches.
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Send us a Text Message.
For this episode of The Bovine, Kara Oosterhuis attended the Beef Research Showcase held in Olds, Alta.
Oosterhuis is joined by:
- Karin Schmid, of Alberta Beef Producers, on the Beef Research Showcase and how it came to be;
- Dr. Bart Lardner, of the University of Saskatchewan, on challenges and opportunities managing novel forage mixtures;
- Dr. Cheryl Waldner, of the University of Saskatchewan, on the Canadian Cow-Calf Surveillance Network; and
- Dr. Kim Stanford, of the University of Lethbridge, on all things ergot.
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
For this episode of The Bovine, Kara Oosterhuis attended the Alberta Beef Industry Conference held in Calgary, Alta.
Oosterhuis is joined by:
- Jack Bobo, director of the Food Systems Institute at the University of Nottingham in the UK, on navigating the future of food;
- Lance Zimmerman, senior animal protein analyst at RaboResearch Food & Agribusiness, with a global cattle market update; and
- Dr. Tammy Nemeth, on lessons learned from the oil and gas industry.
Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) is looking for the next young farmer or rancher to join the Canadian Cattle Youth Council as a Provincial Representative.
Nominations must be in by 11:59 p.m. on May 17, 2024.
Learn More on ABP Daily
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
For this episode of The Bovine, host Kara Oosterhuis attended the CrossRoads Conference held in Calgary, Alta.
Oosterhuis is joined by:
- Walter Schwabe, entrepreneur and tech guru, on the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on agriculture;
- Drew Lerner, founder, president, and senior agricultural meteorologist at World Weather Inc., with a weather outlook for 2024 in Alberta;
- Dr. Rebecca Purc-Stephenson, professor of psychology at the Augustana Campus of the University of Alberta, on the importance of mental health literacy, breaking stigmas, and new resources you may not be aware of.
Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) is looking for the next young farmer or rancher to join the Canadian Cattle Youth Council as a Provincial Representative.
Nominations must be in by 11:59 p.m. on May 17, 2024.
Learn More on ABP Daily
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
After a brief pause, The Bovine is back!
We’re switching gears a bit with a new voice as host, while continuing to cover the dynamic content covering all facets of your operation into the podcast.
Let’s call it Season 2, Episode 1. We’re starting fresh, but not over.
We can’t give away too much of what we’re talking about … it is a podcast, after all.
Tune in, or, download to listen later on your favourite podcast platform!
Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) is looking for the next young farmer or rancher to join the Canadian Cattle Youth Council as a Provincial Representative.
Nominations must be in by 11:59 p.m. on May 17, 2024.
Learn More on ABP Daily
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
When it comes to transition planning for your family's operation, where do you begin?
Annessa Good, business advisor with Farm Credit Canada, joined The Bovine to share what a transition plan is comprised of, as well as useful tips to get started and make this a positive experience for your family and business.
This episode was recorded at the 2023 Canadian Beef Industry Conference in Calgary this August.
Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) is looking for the next young farmer or rancher to join the Canadian Cattle Youth Council as a Provincial Representative.
Nominations must be in by 11:59 p.m. on May 17, 2024.
Learn More on ABP Daily
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Declining cow numbers, shrinking packer margins, and market volatility—the cattle market certainly isn’t boring at the moment. There’s a lot going on, and Ryan Copithorne is here to give producers a glimpse into what may be coming.
Ryan, the president and owner of Cows In Control, joined us on The Bovine during the 2023 Canadian Beef Industry Conference in Calgary this summer to talk about his outlook for the fall and some cautions and opportunities to keep an eye on.
Producers looking for assistance on marketing and getting the best value on their calves can contact Ryan through his website.
Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) is looking for the next young farmer or rancher to join the Canadian Cattle Youth Council as a Provincial Representative.
Nominations must be in by 11:59 p.m. on May 17, 2024.
Learn More on ABP Daily
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Recorded at the 2023 Canadian Beef Industry Conference in Calgary, Brenna Grant, executive director of Canfax Research Services, shares her three favourite recommendations for new beef producers, coming from the Canadian Cow-Calf Cost of Production Network.
The full list of recommendations is now available on the Canfax website, along with other resources coming out of the Network's results and analysis.
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Do you use the same password for everything? Skip multi-factor authentication? Prefer to keep your p4ssw0rds easy?
Well, you may want to listen to this discussion for some inspiration on mitigating your risk of experiencing a cyber security incident.
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) General Manager, Ryder Lee, joined Alberta Beef Producers for our January/February Producer Meetings and our March 1 Annual General Meeting.
And he joins us again here for updates from the CCA.
Related:
- Industry partners publish Alberta Beef Competitiveness Study
- ABP announces 2023 Board of Directors
- CCA advocacy and youth efforts
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
This year, Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) brought a new format to their coffee sponsorship at ABP's Producer Meetings.
Using digital technology, AFSC speakers polled audiences for their thoughts on everything from LPI to moisture deficiency insurance.
What did they find out, and what will they do with the data?
Brenda Hagen, Product Owner LPI, Product Innovation, and Jackie Sanden, Product Coordinator, Product Innovation, join The Bovine to discuss their findings and their next steps.
Related:
- AFSC announces changes to 2023 insurance programs
- Continued high crop prices major factor pushing premiums higher
- Upcoming AFSC Deadlines
- AFSC Contact Form
In this special episode of The Bovine, live from the Alberta Beef Industry Conference, host Debra Murphy talks to Kajal Devani, Beef Improvement Federation board member.
This year's Beef Improvement Federation's research symposium and conference will be held in Calgary, Alberta, July 3-6. Kajal discusses the purpose of the federation and why this conference is valuable for beef producers.
Early bird registration is available until February 28, and students can register for a discounted rate. Learn more at beefimprovement.org/symposium.
In this special episode of The Bovine, we’re joined by emcee, entertainer, and auctioneer Danny Hooper, live from the 2023 Alberta Beef Industry Conference (ABIC).
No stranger to ABIC, Danny shares what he’s learned about being an emcee over the years. He also chats about interviewing this year’s keynote speaker, hockey legend Mark Messier, as well as leading a fireside chat with the Hon. Doug Black, senator from Alberta; the Hon. Christy Clark, former Premier of B.C.; and the Hon. Brad Wall, former Premier of Saskatchewan.
On this episode, we dive into the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion file for the Canadian Beef Advisors and how it relates to the National Beef Strategy 2030 goal around people, health, and safety.
Brenna Grant, Executive Director of Canfax, joins us to provide an overview of this file and how it will allow the industry to work together to achieves its goals.
This Special Edition of the show was recorded at the Canadian Beef Industry Conference in Penticton, British Columbia. Stay tuned for more from the conference!
On this episode, Anne Wasko, rancher and Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef Past Chair, gives us an update on the Canadian Beef Advisor's 2030 goals, coming out of the National Beef Strategy.
This Special Edition of the show was recorded at the Canadian Beef Industry Conference in Penticton, British Columbia. Stay tuned for more from the conference!
When do you prepare for drought?
Dr. Bart Lardner, Adjunct Professor at the University of Saskatchewan joins us to talk drought planning, critical rain dates, and what individual producers can do to improve their operation's drought resiliency.
This Special Edition of the show was recorded at the Canadian Beef Industry Conference in Penticton, British Columbia. Stay tuned for more from the conference!
Brenna Grant, Executive Director of Canfax and Canfax Research Services, joins us to talk about beef and cattle markets, delving into how the last few years have shown up in the numbers, what beef and cattle markets look like now, and if there is an expected shift in leverage on the horizon.
This Special Edition of the show was recorded at the Canadian Beef Industry Conference in Penticton, British Columbia. Stay tuned for more from the conference!
Wondering when to buy grain?
Brennan Turner is an independent grain market analyst, who spoke at the Canadian Beef Industry Conference. Hear a quick summary of his presentation as he goes through factors affecting barley, corn, and wheat.
This Special Edition of the show was recorded at the Canadian Beef Industry Conference in Penticton, British Columbia. Stay tuned to ABP Daily for more from the conference.
From taking food to a grieving neighbour to harnessing the power of the words "tell me more," psychologist, author and keynote speaker Dr. Jody Carrington shares her knowledge of connection.
This Special Edition of the show was recorded at the Canadian Beef Industry Conference in Penticton, British Columbia. Stay tuned to ABP Daily for more from the conference.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
On today's episode:
- The recently announced Living Laboratories Initiative, with Sheri Strydhorst, Alberta Barley and Alberta Wheat Commission, and Karin Schmid, Alberta Beef Producers.
- Making your own ag plastic compactor with guest host and new delegate Colin Rice and Full Circle Plastics' Jonathon Beekman.
- Positivity in market trends for beef - an interview from Alberta Beef Industry Conference, featuring Brett Stuart, founding partner of Global AgriTrends.
Tell us how you burger for a chance to win! howdoyouburger.ca
For More:
- Information on plastics recycling in Alberta
- Video of plastic compactor/baler
- DIY: Baler/Compactor from Full Circle Plastics (pdf)
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Email
Welcome to another edition of The Bovine!
On this episode, you'll hear Karin Schmid, Beef Production and Extension Lead, ABP, takeover the host seat as she tours The Farm, Rocky View Schools' new on-farm learning initiative.
Karin speaks with teacher Matt Chomistek and grade 10 students enrolled in the program.
More information is available at www.rvsthefarm.com
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Welcome back to another episode of The Bovine!
On today's episode, hear:
- ABP Delegate and Medicine Hat area farmer, Craig Lehr, joins the show with an update on the dry conditions in his area;
- Akash Asif from the Centre for Suicide Prevention talks men's mental health, the Centre's ag persona, and #BuddyUp Month; and
- Pitmaster Mel Chmilar Jr. breaks down what it takes to master an old-fashioned pit roast.
For More:
- ABP Daily - Drought
- Become a Buddy Up Champion
- Follow Mel Chmilar Jr. on Instagram
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
This year, Ribbon Creek Ranch, near Linden, Alberta, has been selected as the recipient of the 2022 Environmental Stewardship Award (ESA).
In this feature edition of the podcast, listen to Elan Lees, one of the managers of last year's award-winning ranch, take the reins as guest host for a discussion with Jerry Baerg of Ribbon Creek Ranch.
You'll also hear a quick word from this year's sponsors of the ESA, featuring representatives:
- Tom Lynch-Staunton, Regional Vice President, Alberta, Nature Conservancy of Canada, and
- Thorsten Hebben - Manager Provincial Operations, Alberta, Ducks Unlimited Canada
For More:
Head to ABP Daily to read the announcement from ABP Magazine, and check out some of the images we captured of Jerry Baerg and his family at Ribbon Creek Ranch.
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
Kicking off the episode, host Debra Murphy takes a dive into our social media and some of the chatter about our last podcast on wild pigs.
Then:
- Alberta Invasive Species Council's Executive Director, Megan Evans, joins the show to talk about revitalizing the Certified Weed-Free Forage Program in the province.
- Beef Cattle Research Council Project Coordinator, Janice Bruynooghe, walks us through the Carrying Capacity Calculator.
- New delegate and first generation farmer/rancher, Doug Roxburgh, talks about his move to Alberta, and ultimately, his decision to run as a delegate.
For More:
- Follow Alberta Invasive Species Council and Beef Cattle Research Councilon Twitter.
- Check out BCRC's Carrying Capacity Calculator, their related blog, and other Decision Making Tools.
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
To start off the episode, host Debra Murphy introduces ABP's Beef Production and Extension Lead, Karin Schmid.
Then:
- Can you keep your animals off the grass a while longer? Masters student and host of 'Forays into Forages,' David MacTaggart, joins to talk about the general lifecycle of perennial plants, and how we can support forages post-drought.
- Pigs in the back 40. Wild boar specialist, Dr. Ryan Brook talks about the distribution of wild pigs on the prairies, their lifecycle, and current recommendations for eradication efforts.
- Can you manage another role? Melissa Downing, already busy rancher with an off-farm job, volunteer gigs, and a family, joins the show to talk about her new role as a delegate with Alberta Beef Producers.
For More:
- Follow Debra, David, Ryan, and Melissa on Twitter.
- Keep up-to-date on wild boar on Facebook.
- Report wild boar at large in Alberta
- Find the latest happenings from Canadian Cattlemen's Association on their new website.
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
To start off Episode 3, host Debra Murphy begins by acknowledging international events.
Then:
- How do we get more youth involved in committees and boards? Cattlemen's Young Leader graduate and past Young Cattlemen's Council representative Brodie Haugan reflects on his eight years with Alberta Beef Producers.
In a surprising turn of events, interviewee becomes interviewer.
- Brodie Haugan takes the host chair to welcome a past delegate and farmer, Assar Grinde, to talk about ag plastics in the province.
- What does it look like to prepare ag plastics for recycling? Hear from:
- General Manager of Kasko Cattle Company, Ryan Kasko, on their involvement in a pilot project in Lethbridge County.
- Cleanfarms' Davin Johnson on some of the specifics around cleaning plastics, and what the pilot compactor looks like.
If you're interested in checking out the options in your area, you can call your local agricultural fieldman. Also check out aprg.ca and cleanfarms.ca.
You can also find newsletters from APRG and Cleanfarms on ABP Daily.
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
In this Special Edition of The Bovine, ABP Chair Dr. Melanie Wowk and General Manager Brad Dubeau join host Debra Murphy to re-cap the 2022 Annual General Meeting, held in Red Deer, Alberta at the beginning of March.
You'll hear some thoughts on:
- the overall feel of the meeting,
- youth involvement in the industry,
- the changes to ABP's communications tools,
- some of the resolutions considered (including disaster relief, trade regs, and funding the Canadian Cattlemen's Association), and
- the next steps forward for Alberta Beef Producers.
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
To start off Episode 2, host Debra Murphy begins with some quick thoughts on the podcast's structure, as well as a shout out to ABP Daily, where you can find more information relevant to the cattle industry — particularly here in Alberta.
Then:
- Do cows babysit? Animal welfare and behaviour specialist Dr. Joe Stookey joins us to answer calving questions you've wondered but never knew who to ask.
- What does bull fighting offer a political career? Our very own Vice Chair, Jason Hale, talks about his careers in bull fighting and politics, and joining Alberta Beef Producers.
- You've probably dreamed of virtual fencing, and might already use video cameras to keep an eye on aspects of your operation. But what other technologies are coming down the pipeline? Dr. Diego Moya Fernandez, Assistant Professor at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine joins the show.
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email
It’s our inaugural episode! Hello!
In today’s show, Dr. Melanie Wowk and Lindsay Roberts join host Debra Murphy to introduce The Bovine.
Then:
- Mel Chmilar Jr. (@darksideofthegrill) and Corey Meyer (@coreythebutcher) join us to talk about the ever-underrated roast.
- Kira Hames, Livestock Gentec, gives context to the Arm-Chair Rancher app currently under development.
- Dr. Melanie Wowk shares her background, and brings light to the veterinary shortages facing the country (and world).
Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email.
ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Email