Casual Cattle Conversations - podcast cover

Casual Cattle Conversations

casualcattleconversationswww.casualcattleconversations.com
Casual Cattle Conversations is the podcast for beef cattle producers and ranchers to explore new ideas and hear stories that will help them improve their current management practices. Shaye Koester - Wanner connects listeners to other cattle producers and beef industry experts to discover what management practices, industry trends, current events and inspiring stories are impacting today’s beef cattle industry.
Last refreshed:
Follow this podcast in the Metacast mobile app to refresh it and see new episodes.
Download Metacast podcast app
Podcasts are better in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more

Episodes

Determining Who Sells the BEST Beef to Consumers

Intrigued by the prospect of tasting the finest steaks in America? This lively podcast follows rancher Tyler McCann as he describes the unique Rendezvous City Beef Roundup, an annual event he launched with his wife 7 years prior. What originated as a friendly competition between regional cattle ranchers has since evolved into a nationally renowned showcase attracting top producers from across the U.S., all vying for the coveted honor of the best-tasting beef. Throughout the podcast, Tyler outlin...

May 13, 202425 minSeason 7Ep. 20

What to Consider Before Selling or Buying Heifers with Doug Ferguson

Season 7 || Episode 19 Let's dive into heifer marketing and profitability with Doug Ferguson. Doug's sell-buy marketing strategies and mindset shifts will open your mind to how participating in the female side of the cattle market can be a profitability game changer for your ranch. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand sell-buy marketing strategies to increase profitability in the cattle industry. Learn how to identify and serve your ideal customer Stay ahead of the curve with the lat...

May 06, 202439 minSeason 7Ep. 19

Key Challenges During the First Five Years of Regenerative Ranching with Joe Pokay

In between where we are and where we want to be lies the challenges that come with change. However, the difference in those who get to the other side and those who revert back to old ways comes down to practicing patience and maintaining the proper mindset. Joe Pokay, general ranch manager at the Noble Research Institute, shared how to stay patient and adopt the right mindset to make it through the first five years of focusing on regenerative principles during Season 7, Episode 18 of the Casual ...

Apr 29, 202425 minSeason 7Ep. 18

Applying the Soil Health Principles to Fit Your Operation

In Season 7, Episode 17 of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Caitlin Word shares how cattle producers in all regions with different goals can regenerate their natural resources by being observant and applying the following soil health principles: Know Your Context Cover the Soil Minimize Soil Disturbance Increase Diversity Maintain Continuous Living Plants/Roots Integrate Livestock While we discuss all of the soil health principles during our conversations, we go back to number one quite ...

Apr 22, 202443 minSeason 7Ep. 17

The Pros and Cons of Multispecies Grazing

Cattle and crops. That’s what a lot of us make our living on and know best. But what if adding one more species to your operation could not only improve your soil health and forages but also offer another revenue source throughout the year? Kevin Lynch shares the pros and cons of multispecies grazing as well as what beginners need to consider in Season 7, Episode 16 of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast. About the Guest: Kevin Lynch currently works in the Research Service Department at the ...

Apr 15, 202430 minSeason 7Ep. 16

How to Know if Cover Crops are for You

Implementing cover crops into a grazing plan has a host of benefits for the soil, cattle and profitability of the business when done properly. Steve Swaffar shares his knowledge about cover crop grazing and how it can be an effective method of increasing soil cover in all climates if done properly. During this episode, you’ll learn about the following topics: (04:08) Increasing popularity of cover crops (06:00) Cover crops in wet climates versus arid climates (08:30) Using cover crops for forage...

Apr 08, 202423 minSeason 7Ep. 15

Understanding the Push for and Impact of Implementing Regenerative Principles

Season 7 || Episode 14 – Regnerative. It’s a word that seems to be everywhere. It’s talked about on podcasts, scattered throughout articles and of course, all over social media. However, what does it really mean and why has there been so much hype about it? Caitlin Word with the Noble Research Institute shared her thoughts on what regenerative means, why there is a modern wave of livestock producers focusing on natural resources and how cattle producers can start slow to avoid crashing during th...

Apr 01, 202431 minSeason 7Ep. 14

Nutritional Requirements for Cattle Producers

Ever feel like you're constantly low on energy, relying on caffeine and pain relievers just to get through the day? It's frustrating, right? You're not alone. But what if I told you that it is possible to feel more energized and reduce joint pain while still living your ranching dream? This podcast episode with Kennedy Youngren offers practical tips that work for blue-collar workers in rural America to do just this. In this episode, you will be able to: Learn effective strategies for managing jo...

Mar 25, 202429 minSeason 7Ep. 13

A Customized Approach to Herd Health with MedGene

The "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" mentality with your cattle herd health is tempting to adopt. However, episode guest Gary Bosch explains that the challenge with this mentality is that we don't know when things will break. Gary Bosch sheds light on how diagnostic surveillance and modern vaccine technology can help you stay ahead of potential herd health problems and keep your operation thriving. Tune in to discover the game-changing benefits of platform vaccines and why it's time to consider...

Mar 18, 202425 minSeason 7Ep. 12

Genomic Testing Made Easy for Cow-Calf Producers

Season 7 || Episode 11 Have you heard these myths about genomic testing in cattle? 1. Genomic testing is only for seedstock producers. 2. Genomic testing is too complex and time-consuming for commercial producers. 3. Genomic testing doesn't provide practical benefits for commercial operations. Nick Hammett and host Shaye Wanner bust these myths and dive into practical ways you can use genomics as a commercial cow-calf producer. In this episode, you will be able to: Uncover the potential of genom...

Mar 11, 202427 minSeason 7Ep. 11

How to Measure Pasture-Forage Intake for Cattle

Seasons 7 || Episode 10 – The beef industry has been focused on measuring economically relevant traits for decades. However, some of these traits are harder to measure than others. One of these traits includes pasture-based forage intake on an individual animal basis. With feed costs being one of the highest inputs cattle producers have each year and forage being a limiting resource, the ability to measure this trait is more important than ever before. Cattle producers can now measure forage int...

Mar 04, 202437 minSeason 7Ep. 10

Leaning into the Process of Finding Your Role on a Family Operation

Do you want to enhance individual contributions and strengthen your family bond on the farm or ranch? Find out how to achieve this and elevate your family farm experience. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand Family Dynamics: Discover how to navigate and leverage family dynamics for a thriving farm operation. Find Your Farm Role: Uncover the key to defining individual roles within the family farm for enhanced productivity and unity. Embrace Generational Collaboration: Learn the signi...

Feb 26, 202429 minSeason 7Ep. 10

HerdDogg: Technology Designed to Give Ranchers Their Time Back

Uncover the unexpected way technology is revolutionizing cattle management. Andrew Uden, CEO of HerdDogg, joined me for a conversation about how one form of technology is providing solutions to labor challenges, cattle marketing and more. In this episode, you will hear about: Overcoming challenges faced by ranchers with technology solutions. Harnessing the power of technology to address industry challenges, specifically labor challenges. Attracting young talent to the cattle industry for a susta...

Feb 19, 202444 minSeason 7Ep. 8

Using Technology to Streamline Work on Diversified Cattle Operations

Using Technology to Streamline Work on Diversified Cattle Operations Creating cash flow and mitigating risk are two things that frequently cross the minds of cattle producers. For that matter, maybe they never leave our thoughts. Luke and Natalie Kovarik set an example of how young and first-generation producers can make things work and get started in production agriculture if they are willing to take on opportunities, work hard, try new technology and keep a business mindset. In this episode, y...

Feb 12, 202438 minSeason 7Ep. 7

Finding Direction: Advice for developing a marketing program for crossbred calves

Season 7 || Episode 06 Uncover the secrets of finding direction and creating a solid marketing program for your operations in this podcast episode with Fred Otley and the Red Angus Association of America. Fred shares his family's journey to build their reputation and doesn't hold back on sharing what worked and what didn't work during this process. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how to implement cattle breeding programs for enhanced adaptability, ensuring your herd thrives in var...

Feb 05, 202439 minSeason 7Ep. 6

Family Farm Compensation: Strategies for Financial Harmony from the Experts

Season 7 || Episode 5 Tired of working all day for little pay and being told you are supposed to be proud of it? That’s the narrative many of us in agriculture grew up with, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Compensation is not only possible on family farms and ranches but also necessary. Elaine Froese, Farm Family Coach, and Lyndsay Seafoot, agriculture HR specialist, shared tips and strategies for creating fair compensation plans on family farms in ranches on Season 7, Episode 5 of the Casua...

Jan 29, 202440 minSeason 7Ep. 5

Optimizing Bull Selection: Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Start Buying

|| Season 07 : Episode 04 || Kiernan Brandt joins me for a conversation about bull selection criteria. This episode is designed to help producers prepare for sorting through the mountain of bull sale catalogs, ads and videos before sale season picks up even more! In this episode, you will be able to: Identify key bull selection criteria for maximizing profitability in your cattle operation. Understand the critical role of genetics in shaping the performance and health of your cattle herd. Explor...

Jan 22, 202442 minSeason 7Ep. 4

Create Extra Revenue with the Resources You Already Have

|| Season 7: Episode 03 || If you're feeling frustrated by the seasonal nature of your income as a cattle producer, farmer, or landowner, struggling to make ends meet during the off-season, then you are not alone! Perhaps you've been relying on traditional methods such as selling livestock or crops, only to find that your income fluctuates drastically throughout the year, leaving you financially strained. Instead of achieving a consistent and stable year-round income, you may find yourself const...

Jan 14, 202431 minSeason 7Ep. 3

Boosting Forage and Rebuilding Soil Health on Rented Land: A Cattleman Shares His Approach

Season 7 || Episode 02 • Do you want to enhance the productivity of your leased land for cattle production? CJ Blew will reveal the key to improving soil and forage quality, leading to more sustainable grazing practices from environmental and economic standpoints. Discover how the family members of Blew Partnership work together to rehabilitate leased grazing lands in Kansas. By implementing these strategies, they leave land better than they found it while building a thriving diversified beef ca...

Jan 08, 202437 minSeason 7Ep. 2

Beat the Calving Season Scramble by Preparing Now

Season 7, Episode 1: Join veterinarian Chelsea Woodcock and Wes Chism from Gallagher North America as they uncover the secrets to a successful spring calving season, navigating the delicate balance of herd health and the challenges of record keeping. In this episode, you will be able to: Master successful spring calving strategies for healthier herds. Implement the efficient Sandhills calving system for better outcomes. Maximize herd health with optimal vaccination timing for calves. Elevate her...

Jan 01, 202423 minSeason 7Ep. 1

Sorting Through the Noise: My Favorite Places for Beef Industry News

Stay ahead of the herd with my top industry resources, as I navigate the flood of information to help you make informed decisions in the ever-changing agricultural landscape. In this episode, you will be able to: Gain valuable insights and stay updated with the latest trends in the agriculture industry. Discover top agriculture podcasts for expert interviews and in-depth discussions on farming practices and innovations. Stay informed with the latest industry news and trends through recommended a...

Dec 26, 202313 minSeason 6Ep. 54

How to Set Goals for Your Ranch

As a cattle producer, staying committed to your goals is crucial for effective leadership. In this episode, I share different strategies for setting goals as well as practical strategies like phone reminders and sharing goals with others to increase your level of commitment. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the power of setting clear goals. Stay focused and committed to your objectives. Unlock effective tools to streamline goal setting. Learn how to regularly assess and adapt your ...

Dec 18, 202319 minSeason 6Ep. 53

Mastering Temporary Wire Fencing: Key Strategies for Cattle Owners - Kyler Beard, Liam Shaw

Join ranchers Kyler Beard and Liam Shaw as they share their expertise on temporary wire fencing solutions for cattle owners. With insights on high-tensile wire, fiberglass posts, and proper grounding, they provide valuable advice for improving fencing efficiency and containment. But as they delve deeper into the discussion, conversations also arise about using horses and dogs in intensive grazing scenarios as well as using grazing to prevent wildfires. In this episode, you will be able to: Maste...

Dec 11, 202328 minSeason 6Ep. 52

How to Communicate with Your Ag Lender

Join host Shaye Koester and guest Mark Sand as they dive into the crucial topic of communication with your agriculture lender. Discover the secrets to building a strong banking relationship, managing finances effectively, and planning for the unpredictable challenges of farming and ranching. In this episode, you will be able to: Overcome financial challenges with smart strategies for cattle producers. Streamline loan management for success in the cattle industry. Prepare for potential decrease i...

Dec 04, 202320 minSeason 6Ep. 51

Straighten Out Your Herd Records with Ray Williams

In God we trust and all others bring data, right? This phrase has been thrown around at various conventions and presentations, so I am not entirely sure who to credit for it. One thing I do know is that it is getting truer and truer each day. Whether it is data as simple as calving and vaccine records or as encompassing as DNA, weights, foot scores and anything else you can think of; it matters in today’s beef industry. Ray Williams from the team at Gallagher North America joined me for a conver...

Nov 27, 202340 minSeason 6Ep. 50

Overcoming Challenges for the Viability of the Beef Industry - Don Schiefelbein

Don Schiefelbein, a respected and experienced beef industry leader, ignites a battle for unity as he challenges beef leaders to set aside differences, find common ground, and save the industry from internal threats during this podcast episode. This episode is sponsored by Zoetis. Find deworming solutions here. https://www.zoetisus.com/products/cattle/valcor-makes-it-easy-to-be-tough-on-tough-worms In this episode, you will be able to: Learn how to lead with authenticity and credibility, gaining ...

Nov 20, 202345 minSeason 6Ep. 49

Preventing Reproductive Losses: Secrets to a Healthy and Profitable Cattle Herd - Dr. Jeff Sarchet

Join host Shaye Koester as she delves into the world of reproductive vaccines for cattle with Dr. Jeff Sarchet. Discover the economic impact of not implementing these vaccines, the diseases they aim to prevent, and the crucial timing and considerations involved. Shaye and Jeff also dive into vaccine efficacy! In this episode, you will be able to: Maximize reproductive performance: Learn the optimal vaccine protocols for cattle to improve reproductive health and increase breeding success. Protect...

Nov 13, 20231 hrSeason 6Ep. 48

Beyond Windbreaks: Proactive Winter Management Tips from Gallagher Animal Management

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Buddy Rowlett from the Gallagher team shares his expertise on winter fencing for cattle producers. From the challenges posed by snow and ice to the importance of proper corner design, Buddy offers valuable insights. He even shares a few creative ideas for how to use temporary fence to create shelters for calves during blizzards! In this episode, you will be able to: Learn how to overcome winter fencing challenges to ensure the safety an...

Nov 06, 202313 minSeason 6Ep. 47

Feed Smarter, Not Harder: Strategies to Minimize Feed Waste and Increase Profitability - Aaron Berger

In a world where every penny counts and sustainability is paramount, feed waste is an area of cattle production that can't be overlooked. Aaron Berger, the extension educator with a passion for helping cattlemen and women improve the entire system of their operations, shares game-changing insights to help cattle producers increase profitability by focusing on feed waste. With years of experience and a diverse background, Aaron's expertise shines a light on a path to profitability. Aaron Berger t...

Oct 30, 202333 minSeason 6Ep. 46

Stay Ahead of the Freeze: Strategies for Winter Watering Success

Join host Shaye Koester and rancher James Clark as they delve into the challenges of winter watering systems for livestock. Discover the innovative solutions James uses to keep water flowing and his cattle hydrated. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the secret to preventing water freezing in livestock tanks during winter. Learn strategic planning techniques for effective winter watering systems for your beef herd. Ensure your livestock stay hydrated all winter long with tips on main...

Oct 23, 202313 minSeason 6Ep. 45
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android