Podcasts

Cattlemen's Call

Montana rancher and broadcaster Lane Nordlund hos…

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.

Latest Episode

Downey Ranch: Stewards in the Flint Hills

Barb Downey and Joe Carpenter with Downey Ranch were honored as the 2024 Environmental Stewardship Award National winners. Hear how their family navigates transition planning with their two daughters, how they initiated rotational grazing and bale grazing, and their experience with GPS collars on their cattle. Through experimenting with different practices, Downey Ranch has found ways to save on input costs and time while dramatically increasing their forage’s nutrients and organic matter. The ESAP Program is generously sponsored by USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Corteva and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

March 11 • 31m 47.4s

Episodes

Downey Ranch: Stewards in the Flint Hills

March 11 • 31m 47.4s

Third Party Verification Programs

We are diving into different verification programs and what opportunities are available for cattle producers. Cattle producer Nancy Jackson, DVM, of Southern Cross Farm, Clint Berry with Superior Livestock, and John Saunders, CEO of IMI Global and Where Food Comes From, talk through the importance of producers telling their stories and how tranparency impacts the entire supply chain. Saunders shares how these programs offer marketing avenues and are driven heavily by the consumer. This show is brought to you by IMI Global and Where Food Comes From, learn more at www.imiglobal.com.

February 25 • 40m 42.4s

Moisture, Temperature, and Extreme Weather – What 2025 Has in Store

Beef cattle farmers and ranchers are preparing for spring 2025 and all that comes with it — calving and planting. Meteorologist Matt Makens once again joins the podcast to highlight the weather challenges in the months ahead, namely dry conditions in many western parts of the country. As beef producers evaluate their ability to retain heifers and build up their herd numbers, much of those decisions are reliant on moisture, so listen in to hear Matt’s thoughts and advice to producers. Plus, we chat with our friends at Farm Credit to hear why creating a relationship with your ag lender is important and what you can do to establish that long-term business partnership that will sustain your operation in the good times and the bad. Learn more at farmcredit.com.

February 20 • 24m 29.2s

Moisture, Temperature, and Extreme Weather – What 2025 Has in Store

February 19 • 24m 29.2s

Nebraska’s Buck Wehrbein Shares His Journey to Become NCBA President

Buck Wehrbein has decades of experience feeding cattle, learning and growing from great mentors, and participating in NCBA leadership. Buck and his wife, Sandy, talk about their experiences living in Texas, raising a family on a feedyard and their decision to return to Nebraska. Buck shares what he sees as challenges for the year ahead and where he sees opportunities for young producers brave enough to take risks and engage with the industry. Hear from Buck as he begins his journey as NCBA President. #NCBAPresident #NCBA #CattleCon #Mentorship #CattleMarkets #CattleFeeding #Leadership

February 11 • 27m 40.9s

Protecting Your Herd: The Secure Beef Supply Plan

Biosecurity has been getting a lot of attention recently. With foreign animal diseases like foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) making headlines, understanding the role that producers, veterinarians, transporters, and state and federal agencies is important if an outbreak occurs. Producers and experts on cattle health issues, Monte Bordner, Dr. J.J. Goicoechea, and Dr. Julia Herman are on the show discussing what the Secure Beef Supply Plan is, why biosecurity is important to operations of all sizes, and what simple steps you can take to protect your herd and profitability if a disease outbreak occurs. They address concerns many producers have and give examples of when biosecurity protocols made a difference in their herds. This episode is brought to you as part of the National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program grant that NCBA received to improve educational resources around Secure Beef Supply. Find more information at www.ncba.org/producers/biosecurity-resources. #Biosecurity #SecureBeefSupply #HerdHealth #AnimalDiseasePrevention #CattleCare #ProducerTips #DiseasePreparedness #FootAndMouthDisease #ProtectYourHerd #BeefIndustry #NCBAResources #FarmSmart #LivestockManagement #HealthyCattle

January 15 • 48m 0.2s

Building a Better Future for Rural Veterinary Practices

In this episode of the Cattlemen's Call Podcast, host Lane Nordlund speaks with Dr. Rosslyn Biggs from Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Dr. Wyatt Catron, a practicing veterinarian in Oklahoma, Missouri, and Arkansas. The conversation explores the critical role veterinarians play in rural livestock operations, the challenges of the veterinary profession, and solutions for addressing shortages in rural communities. #CattlemenCare #VeterinaryMedicine #RuralVeterinaryShortage #BeefIndustry #NCBA #LivestockCare #CattlePodcast #cattlemenscallpodcast #veterinarian #livestock #cattlecare #animalcare

December 18 • 43m 51.3s

Beef for Backpacks: Feeding Wyoming's Future

On this episode of Cattlemen’s Call, we’re diving into the impactful Beef for Backpacks program, a collaborative effort led by Wyoming First Lady Jennie Gordon, the Wyoming Hunger Initiative, and 307 Meat Company. This inspiring initiative ensures food-insecure children in Wyoming have access to nutritious, protein-rich beef. Tune in to hear from First Lady Gordon, Kelcey Christensen, and Breean Waller about how this program is changing lives, fostering community support, and demonstrating the ranching community's power to give back. #BeefForBackpacks #CattleCommunity #WyomingHungerInitiative #RanchingForGood #ProteinPower #FoodInsecuritySolutions #WyomingCattlemen #CattlemenCallPodcast #GivingBack #HolidaySeasonOfGiving #WyomingBeef

December 3 • 27m 21.6s

Edutainment on the Range: Tucker Brown’s Influence in Agriculture

Lane Nordlund chats with Tucker Brown of R.A. Brown Ranch about blending family ranching with a growing social media presence. Tucker shares how he uses platforms like Instagram and TikTok to educate and entertain audiences, connecting consumers to agriculture. He highlights the importance of innovation, storytelling, and bridging gaps between producers and the public. Tucker also discusses balancing ranch work with content creation and inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders. Brought to you by Zoetis https://www.zoetisus.com/solutions/beef/brd-solutions/ #CattlemenCall #Ranching #SocialMediaInfluencer #AgricultureEducation #TexasRanching #FamilyFarms #AngusConvention #Edutainment #SustainableFarming #LivestockLeadership

November 26 • 47m 45.1s

Combat to Cattle: Veteran Rancher Max Krupp

Max Krupp served our country in the armed forces to protect Americans, and now he serves his community by raising grass finished, natural beef in Texas. Max describes how military leadership shaped him and how those skills transfer to his career with Halo K Cattle Co. and mentoring other men and women. Max walks us through the challenges he faced when he retired from the Army and started a cow herd and what led to his choice to produce grass finished beef. #VeteransDay2024 #Veteran #Army #Cattleman #BeefProducer #VeteranRancher #Anugs #GrassfedBeef #NCBA #AgLeadership #Cattle #Beef

November 11 • 50m 58.5s

Producers Emphasize Loyalty During Hurricanes

Producers in the Southeast who have been hit by the recent hurricanes, Helene and Milton, are set back at least a month in their cattle production timelines. Florida cattlemen Alex Johns and Dale Carlton share what producers are experiencing today as they work to recover and clean up their operations after these natural disasters. They discuss the impact the support of fellow cattlemen and women across the country and amongst their communities makes on operations. https://www.ncba.org/producers/disaster-relief-resources https://convention.ncba.org/ #HurricaneHelene #HurricaneMilton #CattleHealth #Cattle #Florida #FloridaCattlemen #Hurricanes #NaturalDisasters #Agriculture #CattleNutrition

October 29 • 36m 24.8s

Genetic Decisions Impact More Than Just the Final Product

Dive into genetics with us on this episode as we talk with Kyle Caires, an Angus producer in Maui, Hawaii. Kyle emphasizes the importance of knowing your environment, whether you’re on the mainland or the Hawaiian Islands. He explains how their operation has made genetic decisions to enhance their herd and work with their many microclimates. Kyle gives advice to producers on using genetics and breeding selection to work with the land and remain profitable. #Angus #HawaiiCattlemen #HawaiiAg #BeefGenetics #CattleGenetics #Cattle #Beef #Agriculture

October 15 • 57m 3.2s

Developing Leaders in Your Employees with Sam Cossio

“You learn from the people that you lead.” Sam Cossio grew up in Mexico and moved to the U.S. as a teenager where he then worked for 20+ years in the cattle feeding industry. Sam has a unique story to tell and has insight on labor challenges and opportunities in the agriculture industry. His consulting business, Back to Basics, focuses on connecting people to build respectful, personal relationships between teams. Our conversation with Sam touches on farm and ranch labor, developing leadership skills, and promoting safety and loyalty on the whole operation. Connect with Sam at www.samcossio.com. #AgLeadership #Feedlots #Feedyard #Beef #NCBA #FarmSafety #FarmLabor #SamCossio #BackToBasics #CattleFeeding #BeefProduction

September 17 • 1h 3m 44.3s

Of The West with Jessie Jarvis

Bringing job seekers and employers together in the Western clothing and lifestyle industries is a passion for Jessie Jarvis, founder of Of The West. Jessie is an ag advocate who balances owning a business and raising a family, including two small kids, while ranching in Idaho. Jessie began Of The West from the ground up and has helped many people find their careers in cattle, livestock, and Western business. In addition, Dr. Connie Larson with Zinpro shares ways producers can improve the performance of their replacement females. Learn more at www.zinpro.com. #OfTheWest #AgAdvocate #AgInfluencer #Western #WesternLifestyle #AgCareers #Beef #Cattle #NCBA #Zinpro #CattleNutrition

September 5 • 59m 30.8s

Prepare Yourself for the Return of La Niña

We welcome back a familiar face, Atmospheric Scientist Matt Makens. Matt explains his upbringing in an agricultural family that led to his passion for weather and appreciation how weather reporting can assist cattle producers. He talks about how he gathers his models and information, what the rest of 2024 looks like, and his recommendations for cattlemen and women across the country. #LaNiña #ElNiño #WeatherPatterns #Drought #Rain #CattleProduction #NCBA #Beef

August 26 • 30m 26.4s

Chuckwagon Cooking with Kent Rollins

We are taking it back to the Old West this episode with Kent Rollins, chuckwagon cooking expert. Kent grew up helping his father tend cattle in Oklahoma and his passion for cooking took off when he spent time in the Gila Wilderness of New Mexico with his uncle. He travels the country now with his chuckwagon, cooking for cattlemen and women and building community through good food and conversation. #chuckwagoncooking #western #west #cowboys #cattleman #cattlewoman #KentRollins #campfirecooking #cattletrails #cattle #beef

August 6 • 39m 10.2s

Colorado Ranchers Turn Beef Entrepreneurs

Cameron and Deborah Fitch have established a 30-30-30-10 philosophy when it comes to the quality of the beef they are putting on plates in their restaurants and selling to their consumers. Fitch Ranch sees all segments of the supply chain with a cow-calf operation, a processing facility, and multiple restaurants which is why they’ve set such high standards for their end product. Hear their story from the days when Deborah was a vegetarian to today as they operate a Certified Angus Beef and USDA inspected processing plant.

July 25 • 34m 33.3s

Understanding the Value of Export Markets

We are getting into the weeds…or maybe the stalks… of the relationship between corn growers and cattle producers. These two industries rely on one another and make great partners to provide nutritious food for worldwide consumers. Our guests today are beef producer Jaclyn Wilson, National Corn Growers Association’s Troy Schneider, and U.S. Grains Council’s Ellen Zimmerman. They discuss the benefit to U.S. producers from export markets for beef and grain and how these organizations are working to expand trade. #agpartners #agexports #agtrade #NCGA #corn #beef #grain #ranchers #cattle #cattlemen #cattlewomen #farmers

July 9 • 57m 30.4s

Calling All Campers, Cowboys and Cowgirls

Brookhill Ranch is stewarding the next generation of young leaders through a summer youth camp focused on fun, connection and Christ while also raising Hereford cattle near Hot Springs, Arkansas. Combining camp activities and cattle raising is a unique connection to food production and livestock for hundreds of children every summer at Brookhill Ranch. #cattle #livestockauctions #livestockauctions #cattle #cattleprices #cattlemarkets #agriculture #auction #livestockmarketing #arkansas #summercamp #agcamp #ranching #ranchers #cows #cattlemen #cattlewomen #hotsprings #hotspringsarkansas

June 18 • 36m 46.1s

The Consequences of Your Cattle’s Diet

All cattle nutrition choices have a consequence whether it’s good or bad. Dusty Abney, cow-calf nutritionist, knows the costs and opportunities for profitability when it comes to proper nutrition for your herd. Abney reminds us to use accurate records to get a better return on our investments, and he gives easy-to-follow and cost-effective nutrition advice. Hear more ways you can increase your profit margin and herd health. #HerdHealth #Cattle #CattleNutrition #Beef #Profitabilty #Agriculture #LivestockProduction #CattleCon #CattleFeed

June 4 • 37m 38.7s

The Next Generation is Saddling Up

Cattlemen and women in our nation’s agricultural institutions are grabbing opportunities in the industry by the horns and taking initiative to start their careers in the livestock industry. This generation is the future of beef production in the U.S., and it’s exciting to hear how they are engaged with ag in their schools and communities. Bailee Schiefelbein with Oklahoma State University and Grayson Lee with Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College share their upbringings and goals as they pursue futures in cattle production. #youngproducers #youthinag #cattleproducers #cattlemen #cattlewomen #nextgenag #cattlecon #oklahomastate #abrahambaldwincollege #sustainableag

May 21 • 38m 1.2s

Texas Ranch Reduces Carbon Emissions and Nurtures Biodiversity

Meredith Ellis and her father GC Ellis share about G Bar C Ranch in Rosston, Texas, which won the 2023 National Environmental Stewardship Award. Meredith refers to their ranch as a living laboratory that they open to scientists, researchers, leaders and consumers to explore the ways they conserve habitats and grazing lands. This third-generation ranch is setting the standard for land stewardship in cattle production. #ESAP #stewardship #environment #generationalranch #agnews #cattle #endangeredspecies #biodiversity #methaneemissions #carbonfootprint #ghgemissions #planthealth #soilhealth #cattlehealth

May 7 • 38m 29s

Wearing Down Boot Soles on Capitol Hill

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

April 23 • 29m 20.7s

Florida’s JB Ranch Excels Despite Challenges

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

April 9 • 34m 33.6s

Talking Methane Emissions with Renowned Scientist

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.

March 12 • 22m 51s

Talking Methane Emissions with Renowned Scientist

March 12 • 22m 51.7s

Feedlot Focus: Progress in the Pen

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

February 27 • 39m 55.3s

From Ranch to Leadership: Mark Eisele's Journey and Vision for the Cattle Industry

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

February 13 • 38m

When to Expect a Return to La Niña

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.

February 6 • 25m 59.6s

Elevating Your New Year’s Resolutions with Beef

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.

January 23 • 40m 53.9s

Opportunity Abounds for Producers in 2024

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.

January 8 • 46m 58.7s

Canine Companions On The Ranch

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.

December 26 • 41m 23.4s

Meet The Meat Board

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.

December 18 • 39m 43.5s

The Mission Comes First – Veterans Day Special

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.

November 7 • 48m 1.2s

Capture Added Value in Your Calves

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

October 17 • 41m 14.3s

Butcher Solutions: Building Better Butchers

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.

October 10 • 49m 27.7s

Hiring And Keeping Great Employees

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.

September 19 • 37m 11.1s

Successful Business Strategies With The Bonds Ranch

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.

September 5 • 52m 12.7s

The Quality Of Beef Is Improving

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.

August 22 • 29m 20.6s

Cattle Producers Gather to Help Chart the Future

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.”

August 8 • 41m 56.1s

El Niño Explained - Meteorologist Matt Makens

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.

July 25 • 27m 56.1s

New Cattle Market Surprises and Analysis with Paul Dykstra

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.

July 18 • 30m 27.2s

Loss and the Family Ranch: Planning for the Unexpected

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.

June 27 • 45m 22s

Young Cattlemen’s Conference 2023

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 71 producers across the nation.

June 13 • 43m 38.5s

Beef Cows and Wedding Vows

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!

May 30 • 37m 57.5s

Beefing Up Protection With Ag Law Enforcement

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.

May 16 • 46m 52.2s

Proper Nutrition Leads To Prospering Cattle

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.

April 18 • 35m 13s

Multi - Generational Ranch Goes Beyond Raising Cattle

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.

April 4 • 39m 16.4s

RA Brown Ranch Talks About Passing On the Legacy

Texas cattlemen and father and son, Donnell 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.”

March 21 • 1h 3m 3.3s

Lions, Wolves And Bears — And The Trouble They Cause

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.

March 7 • 1h 5m 0.4s

What’s The Forecast For 2023?

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.

February 21 • 27m 56.2s

South Dakota Cattleman, Lawyer and Father to Lead Cattle Industry

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.

February 7 • 47m 8.2s

125 Years Of Unity And Progress For The Cattle Industry

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!

January 30 • 1h 5m 9.3s

Behind the Scenes of #CattleCon23 in New Orleans

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.

January 24 • 29m 8.8s

Let’s Talk Tech And Data

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.

January 10 • 54m 12.9s

Fencing For The Future

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.

December 27 • 59m 30.1s

Holiday Traditions That Never Grow Old

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.

December 13 • 42m 3.5s

What To Pair With Your Beef

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.

November 29 • 55m 19.9s

What To Expect After The 2022 Midterm Election

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.

November 11 • 57m 33.5s

FMD – Hope for the Best but Prepare for the Worst

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.

October 24 • 56m 3.2s

Now Hiring – Tomorrow’s Workforce

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.

October 11 • 1h 21m 58.1s

Breaking From The Herd

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.

September 26 • 29m 45.3s

Cryptocurrency – Is it Coming to Cattle?

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.

September 7 • 51m 35.7s

Your Voice Matters

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.

August 22 • 40m 48.9s

Ambassadors For Beef

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.

August 9 • 50m 0.7s

Living In Harmony

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.

July 18 • 50m 17.9s

A Dynamic Duo: Cattle And Corn

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.

July 5 • 41m 34.6s

The Real Side of Farming with Kellie Lasack

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.

June 21 • 47m 12.5s

Take It From The Experts

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.

June 6 • 50m 45.6s

What do a Colorado and an Australian Rancher Have in Common?

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 23 • 1h 12m 54.8s

Mental Health: The Elephant On The Ranch

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.

May 9 • 1h 14m 28s

You Can’t Control Everything, But You Can Control Pests

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.

April 26 • 29m 33.7s

Women in Ranching: Lady Livestock Co.

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.

April 19 • 53m 43.6s

Manage Your Land With Mother Nature

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.

April 12 • 31m 39.6s

Leaving the Land Better Than You Found It: Environmental Stewardship

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.

March 21 • 1h 1m 47s

Beef Advocates are Springing into Action — New Programs and 2022 Advocate of the Year

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!

March 1 • 37m 46.3s

NCBA Races To The Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. 300 With Jeb Burton Behind The Wheel

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.

February 14 • 13m 4.7s

Minnesota Man Steps Into the Driver’s Seat of NCBA

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.

February 8 • 38m 20.9s

Wildfire: Ranchers Play Role in Fuels Reduction

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.

January 25 • 30m 32.5s

What NCBA Is Looking Forward to in 2022

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!

January 4 • 43m 34.2s