In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye talks with Kelly Sanders about fetal programming and its implications for cattle nutrition. Kelly shares his journey and passion for cattle, discussing his role at Westway Feed Products. He explains the technical aspects of fetal programming, the impacts of environmental and nutritional factors on cattle development, and provides practical advice for ranchers to ensure optimal cattle health and performance throughout gestation. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining body condition scores, using balanced nutrition programs, and leveraging available resources to mitigate adverse effects on cattle. The episode offers a comprehensive look at managing cattle nutrition to maximize genetic potential and overall herd quality. Learn more about Westway Feed Products here: https://bit.ly/4lBtKRKFind more information and more episodes at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ 00:39 Meet Kelly Sanders: Passion for Cattle Nutrition02:53 Understanding Fetal Programming04:25 Impact of Fetal Programming on the Beef Industry15:53 Practical Steps for Ranchers27:48 Final Thoughts and Resources  

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye visits with Rocky Brown to discuss effective fall and winter watering systems for cattle ranchers. Rocky, who operates Wald Fencing, a local farm supply store, shares expert advice on both temporary and permanent watering solutions to help keep water flowing and reduce winter maintenance headaches.   Highlights include tips on various watering systems, the benefits of using geothermal heat and energy-efficient methods, and key considerations when installing permanent solutions such as Ritchie waters. Additionally, Rocky emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge within the beef industry to collectively elevate the success of all producers.   01:19 Meet Rocky Brown: Expert in Winter Watering Systems 01:38 The Importance of the Beef Industry 03:56 Rocky's Business and Customer-Driven Approach 06:57 Temporary Winter Watering Solutions 18:52 Permanent Winter Watering Solutions 22:40 Removing and Thawing Water Systems 23:06 Geothermal Heat and Insulation Benefits 23:20 Customer Experiences and Product Endorsements 25:04 Concrete Pads for Livestock 27:22 Rough Cut Lumber Alternatives 29:45 Ritchie Water Systems Overview 32:33 Ritchie Water System Enhancements 39:17 Tank Heaters and De-Icers 43:14 Final Thoughts and Industry Advice   Find more information and more episodes at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ Learn more about Wald Fencing here: https://bit.ly/3KMGd7v Learn more about Pluck here: https://eatpluck.com/?ref=SHAYEWANNER

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye is joined by Jeananne from the Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) to discuss the advantages of value added programs for cattle producers. The conversation covers the importance of genetic verification, age and source documentation, and the specific benefits of RAAA's programs such as Angus Access and Allied Access. Jeananne explains how these programs boost marketability and premiums for producers, regardless of breed. The discussion also touches on the recent rebranding of the Feeder Calf Certification Program to Angus Access and the transition to electronic ID tags for improved traceability. For more details, listeners are encouraged to check additional resources and contact RAAA directly.  Learn more about RAAA here: https://bit.ly/4iaU6b Find more information and more episodes at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/  

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye Wanner speaks with Elaine Froese about the critical and often overlooked topic of non-family farm transition plans. Elaine, a seasoned expert in farm transitions and coaching, emphasizes the importance of considering non-family members in continuity plans. She offers insights for both the rising generation seeking better opportunities and the senior generation without family successors. Key points include the necessity of solid agreements, financial literacy, and understanding individual strengths and gaps. Elaine also touches on the importance of open communication within the family and the community to ensure a harmonious transition. Listeners are encouraged to take proactive steps in planning to avoid being stuck in unfulfilling situations and to find value in collaborative efforts. 00:00 Introduction to Casual Cattle Conversations 00:18 Guest Introduction: Elaine Froese 00:29 Non-Family Transition Plans 01:42 Elaine's Background and Experience 02:32 Importance of Non-Family Transitions 03:18 Challenges and Opportunities in Non-Family Transitions 05:17 Real-Life Examples and Success Stories 12:16 Financial Literacy and Transparency 14:34 Understanding Your Skillset and Gaps 17:54 Starting Conversations and Agreements 33:07 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Learn more about Elaine here: https://bit.ly/46KdlUm  Learn more about the Red Angus Association of America: https://bit.ly/4iaU6b

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye talks with Tucker Brown about using social media as an alternative revenue stream for ranchers. Tucker shares his journey of leveraging platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to not only market their cattle operations but also create a substantial income. He discusses the challenges and rewards, the transition from casual posting to serious content creation, and the impact this has had on his family's life. He also gives practical advice on storytelling, handling negative feedback, and selecting brand partnerships, emphasizing the importance of staying authentic and strategic. This insightful conversation sheds light on how ranchers, especially the younger generation, can use social media to sustain and grow their family operations while inviting more people into the world of agriculture.   Learn more about Performance Beef: https://bit.ly/47PxY3W Learn more about Red Angus here: https://bit.ly/4iaU6bb  Connect with Shaye: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/   00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:41 Meet Tucker Brown: A Ranching Legacy 03:14 Social Media as a Revenue Source 05:20 The Journey and Impact of Social Media 11:22 Monetization and Brand Partnerships 16:13 Advice for Aspiring Social Media Influencers 22:06 The Long Game: Building a Sustainable Presence 24:14 Speaking Engagements and Final Thoughts      

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye chats with Luke Ressler about innovative ranching practices that improve both livestock management and soil health. Luke and his wife Elli operate a diversified ranch in Northeastern North Dakota. They delve into the benefits of using cover crops and bale grazing to extend grazing days and enhance soil quality, especially in challenging Northern climates. Luke shares insights from their fall and winter grazing practices, the integration of no-till farming, and their transition to fall calving. The episode also covers the challenges and learning curves associated with these methods, offering practical advice for ranchers looking to adopt similar strategies.   00:17 Meet Luke Ressler: Diversified Ranching in North Dakota 02:40 Grazing Practices and Soil Health 07:29 Cover Crops: Implementation and Benefits 19:27 Challenges and Adaptations in Ranching 25:10 Bale Grazing: Techniques and Benefits 34:30 Reflections and Future Plans   Learn more about Performance Beef: https://bit.ly/47PxY3W Learn more about Red Angus here: https://bit.ly/4iaU6bb  Connect with Shaye: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/

In this solo episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, Shaye Wanner walks through six key factors ranchers should consider when choosing herd management software. From cost and user access to ease of use and long-term value, Shaye shares real-world experiences from both seedstock and commercial operations. Whether you’re still jotting notes in a red calving book or testing out digital platforms, this episode will help you evaluate which system best fits your ranch’s needs, reduces stress, and increases profitability. 👉 Tune in for practical insights that make recordkeeping easier and more profitable for your operation. 📌 What You’ll Learn:0:00 – Introduction1:20 – Why herd records matter for profitability2:20 – Factor 1: What problems does it solve?4:45 – Factor 2: Will it work for your ranch in 5 years?7:10 – Factor 3: Cost and return on investment9:39 – Factor 4: User access and team needs11:00 – Factor 5: Web-based, app-based, or both?12:04 – Factor 6: Ease of use for your crew14:32 – Bonus: Onboarding and training for success16:00 – Final recap and closing thoughts Resources:  Performance Beef: https://bit.ly/47PxY3W https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/

Host Shaye Wanner speaks with Jared Ranly, a veterinarian and backgrounder, about effective strategies for receiving cattle and enhancing profitability in the beef industry.

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner sits down with Katey Johnson, a first-generation rancher and beef advocate, to talk about addressing consumer concerns in today’s beef industry. From questions about grass-fed vs. grain-finished beef to myths about factory farms, Katey shares how she connects with consumers at farmers markets, online, and through direct-to-consumer beef sales. If you’ve ever wondered how to better engage with consumers or how to respond to tough questions about beef production, this conversation will give you practical insights and encouragement. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction with Shaye Wanner01:35 – Why Katey Johnson bet on the beef industry 04:21 – Becoming a first-generation rancher06:00 – Selling beef direct-to-consumer and shipping nationwide07:21 – Common consumer concerns about beef production09:22 – Explaining the beef lifecycle: cow-calf to feedyard 11:14 – Why Katey is “Team Beef” regardless of how it’s finished13:03 – Grass-finished vs. grain-finished: consumer perceptions15:24 – Shocking myths and misinformation consumers believe17:05 – Beef’s role in upcycling food byproducts18:30 – Addressing glyphosate and other health claims19:57 – Building consumer trust as a rancher21:27 – Advice for ranchers: engaging with consumers respectfully23:36 – What Katey would do differently in her first five years24:50 – Where to connect with Katey online Resources & Links: Follow Katey Johnson: @zerocattleranch @kateyjohnsoncreative Favorite Seasoning: EatPluck.com (use code ShayeWanner for 15% off) Free Ranching Community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FKWGvQKxh/

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, Shaye Wanner visits with Shane White of Ceres Tag and Justin Hossfeld of RangeView by Envu. Together, they explore how integrating these two technologies helps ranchers make data-driven decisions about grazing management, forage utilization, cattle performance, and theft prevention. From tracking real-time animal behavior to managing pastures with geospatial data, discover how technology can become your ranch’s “extra hired hand” while improving profitability and sustainability. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction with Shaye Wanner01:15 – Why Shane White & Justin Hossfeld bet on the beef industry03:30 – Overview of RangeView by Envu 05:15 – Introduction to Ceres Tag and its satellite-powered ear tags06:55 – Data dashboards and grazing management tools in RangeView 09:05 – Alerts, utilization tracking, and planning pasture moves 12:39 – Measuring ROI: feed costs, efficiency, and time savings 14:40 – How ranchers can start with RangeView 16:00 – Benefits of Ceres Tag: forage intake, animal tracking, and theft prevention 19:55 – Real-time notifications and peace of mind 24:00 – Overcoming intimidation with technology adoption25:30 – The power of integration: RangeView + Ceres Tag 30:30 – Individual animal data and management possibilities 32:40 – Future innovations for RangeView34:05 – What’s next for Ceres Tag and ranching technology 36:00 – Final thoughts: Why now is the time to invest in technology 37:50 – Closing remarks and resources Resources: Learn more about RangeView: https://bit.ly/3JL7BlI Explore Ceres Tag: https://bit.ly/45WlwfW Connect with Shaye Wanner: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ Hashtags: #Ranching #BeefIndustry #CattleManagement #ForageUtilization #LivestockTechnology #BeefCattle #RanchManagement #CeresTag #RangeView #CasualCattleConversations

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner sits down with Jim Strickland, a sixth-generation Florida rancher managing multiple operations across the state. Together, they discuss how Vence’s virtual fencing technology is transforming ranch management—helping producers through hurricanes, improving wildlife habitats, protecting calves from predators, and creating new opportunities for conservation.

Join Shaye Wanner on the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast as she delves into the intricacies of improving pregnancy rates in cattle with expert Lacey Quail. Discover practical strategies and insights to enhance reproductive efficiency in your beef cow herd.   Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction by Shaye Wanner 01:15 - Meet Lacey Quail: Background and Expertise 03:45 - Understanding Conception vs. Pregnancy Rates 07:30 - Industry Standards and Expectations 10:00 - Troubleshooting Low Pregnancy Rates 15:20 - Importance of Herd Records 18:45 - Missed Opportunities in Reproductive Management 22:00 - Observing Breeding Behavior 25:00 - Final Thoughts and Resources   Hashtags: #CattleRanching #ReproductiveEfficiency #LivestockManagement   Resources: SenseHub Vence: https://bit.ly/4kfWrCG Rising Ranchers Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/19PZX3xByi/ Don't forget to leave a rating or review and share this episode with fellow ranchers who might find it valuable. Happy ranching!

Join Shaye Wanner and Aaron Berger as they dive into the world of ranch profits, exploring how ranchers can effectively utilize their profits while being tax conscious. From strategic investments to innovative technologies, discover insights that can transform your ranching operations. Don’t miss out on this engaging conversation that promises to keep your herd ahead of the curve.

Join Shaye Wanner as she sits down with Emma Coffman, a first-generation beef producer, to explore her journey into the ranching industry. Emma shares her experiences, challenges, and the innovative technologies shaping modern ranching. Whether you're a seasoned rancher or new to the field, Emma's story offers valuable insights and inspiration. Key Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction by Shaye Wanner 02:15 - Emma Coffman's entry into ranching 10:30 - The role of technology in modern ranching 18:45 - Tips for aspiring first-generation producers 25:00 - Building relationships in the industry 28:30 - Final thoughts and advice from Emma Resources Emma's Website: https://doubleeranchadvocacy.com/ Vence: https://bit.ly/4kfWrCG Rising Ranchers: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/16xGD2etnp/   #Ranching #BeefProduction #FirstGenFarmer #AgricultureInnovation #Podcast   Don't forget to leave a rating and review, and share this episode with friends who might find it valuable. Connect with Emma through the links provided in the show notes for more insights and resources.

Join host Shaye Wanner as she delves into the inspiring journey of Todd and Taylor Stegall and Callie Barber, who are revolutionizing school lunches by introducing local beef into the system. Discover the challenges and triumphs of sourcing locally, the impact on students, and the benefits for the local economy. Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction by Shaye Wanner [01:30] Todd Stegall on his passion for cattle ranching [04:00] Callie Barber discusses the logistics of local beef in schools [07:15] The USDA inspection process explained [10:00] Community support and collaboration insights [13:00] Challenges and triumphs in local food sourcing [16:00] Final thoughts and call to action Key Highlights: Todd Stegall shares his passion for cattle ranching and the importance of quality beef. Callie Barber discusses the logistics and benefits of integrating local beef into school programs. Insights into the USDA inspection process and its role in local food sourcing. The importance of community support and collaboration in local food initiatives. #LocalBeef #SchoolLunch #CattleRanching #USDA #SustainableFood #CommunitySupport Don't miss this insightful episode! Subscribe now and leave a review to support our mission of bringing quality content to your feed. Happy ranching! Ready for more ranching conversations? Join the Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/19PZX3xByi/ Learn more about the Stegall Ranch ➡️ https://www.stegallcattle.com/ 

Join Shaye Wanner in a compelling conversation with Lamar Steiger as they delve into consumer perceptions and buying patterns in the beef industry. Discover insights from Lamar’s unique experiences as both a rancher and a retail consultant.

Join host Shaye Wanner on the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast as she chats with Patrick Jones from the Noble Research Institute about strategies for ranch profitability. Learn how to set realistic financial goals, manage overhead and direct costs, and avoid common accounting pitfalls to ensure your ranch thrives. Learn more about Noble: https://bit.ly/3DD7uG0 Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 02:15 - Meet Patrick Jones 05:30 - Setting Financial Goals 10:45 - Understanding Overhead Costs 15:20 - Direct Costs and Common Mistakes 20:00 - Resources and Courses for Ranchers 25:30 - Patrick's Reflections and Advice   Hashtags: #RanchProfitability #CattleConversations #SustainableRanching

Are you ready to make more confident bull-buying decisions that truly move your ranch forward? In this episode, Shaye Wanner visits with Marty Ropp of Allied Genetic Resources to discuss how commercial cow-calf producers can leverage genomics through the Right Bull program to select bulls that align with their goals and cows. Marty shares how precision mating, large-effect genes, and genomic compatibility are revolutionizing herd improvement—saving time, reducing risk, and increasing uniformity and profitability. Whether you’re buying one bull or managing hundreds, this episode will help you understand how to turn genetics into ROI.

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Koester-Wanner reconnects with Casey Fanta, seedstock manager at Wulf Cattle, to explore how the beef industry is evolving—especially when it comes to online bull sales. Casey shares how COVID-19 accelerated their transition to digital auctions, the value of customer relationships, and how the beef quality landscape has changed over the years. From open houses to impulse buying, you’ll get a deep look at the pros, cons, and practicalities of selling bulls online.

Jon Biermacher joins to explore the critical economic decisions ranchers face—particularly around culling cows. Jon dives into the financial trade-offs, market signals, and resilience that define today’s beef producers. Discover why cull cows can significantly impact ranch revenue and what ranchers need to consider before keeping open cows. This is a must-listen for producers wanting to make smarter, margin-driven decisions in a volatile market.