Casual Cattle Conversations

Retaining Ranch Employees

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye interviews Kane Wellnitz about effective strategies for employee retention in ranching and agriculture. Kane shares insights from his experiences as a rancher and ag business owner, discussing challenges and solutions for retaining employees. Key topics include fostering ownership among employees, the importance of communication, and offering flexibility. Kane also touches on the necessity of providing competitive salaries and exploring talent from related industries. He provides an overview of his family's ranch operations and his consulting business, Landbridge Partners, emphasizing ways to improve management and maintain a committed workforce.

 

Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/

 

Learn more about Profit Foundations for Ranchers here: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/profit-foundations-for-ranchers 

 

 

00:00 Introduction to Casual Cattle Conversations

00:17 Guest Introduction: Kane Wellnitz

02:09 Kane's Ranching Background

04:37 Employee Retention Strategies on the Ranch

05:27 Consulting Business Insights

06:54 Lessons Learned in Hiring and Retention

09:23 Challenges and Solutions in Ranch Management

13:03 Finding and Retaining the Right Employees

27:07 Final Thoughts and Advice

30:54 Conclusion and Podcast Support

What Ranchers Need to Know About Vitamin A

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye is joined by Dr. Blane Lowe to discuss vitamin A deficiencies in cattle herds. The conversation covers the importance of vitamin A for cattle health, symptoms of deficiency, and prevention strategies. Dr. Lowe explains how vitamin A impacts various organ systems, reproductive efficiency, and overall cattle productivity. The episode also delves into environmental factors affecting vitamin A uptake and practical supplementation methods, including a specialized product developed by Dr. Lowe. With expert insights, this episode is essential for ranchers aiming to maintain the health and productivity of their herds during the winter months.

00:00 Welcome to Casual Cattle Conversations

 

Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/

 

Learn more about Profit Foundations for Ranchers here: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/profit-foundations-for-ranchers

 

00:18 Introduction to Vitamin A Deficiencies

00:49 Meet Dr. Blane Lowe

02:24 The Importance of Vitamin A in Cattle

04:03 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin A Deficiency

05:34 Geographical and Environmental Factors

07:32 Supplementation Strategies

15:02 Innovative Solutions: OPT Aid

17:01 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Tax Tips for Ranchers

In this episode of the 'Casual Cattle Conversations' podcast, Shaye interviews CPA Hannah Mann, who specializes in serving agricultural clients. They delve into practical tax and bookkeeping tips for ranchers, highlighting the importance of effective and marginal tax rates, and the potential benefits of income averaging using Schedule J. Hannah Mann shares her passion for the agricultural industry and her unique insights from both a professional and personal perspective. The discussion also covers common mistakes ranchers make with end-of-year bookwork and tips on utilizing software like Ambrook for efficient bookkeeping. Hannah emphasizes the importance of knowing your effective tax rate to make informed financial decisions and avoid unnecessary expenditures. Listeners will find valuable strategies to better manage their financials and leverage tax benefits specific to the agricultural industry. 

Learn more about Ambrook: ambrook.com/casualcattle   

Catch more conversation like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/

00:00 Welcome to Casual Cattle Conversations 
00:18 Introducing Hannah Mann: Tax Tips for Ranchers 
01:08 Hannah's Passion for Agriculture 
02:43 Tax Strategies and Bookkeeping Tips 
07:05 Common Mistakes in Ranch Bookkeeping 
11:22 Effective Tax Rate vs. Marginal Tax Rate 
21:59 Retirement Accounts for Farmers and Ranchers 
25:58 Understanding Raised vs. Purchased Cattle 
26:57 Importance of Accurate Bookkeeping 
28:10 Tips for Organizing Bookwork 
29:08 Benefits of Using Ambrook Software 
31:46 Challenges with QuickBooks 
42:19 Tax Strategies and Effective Tax Rates 
45:19 Final Thoughts and Recommendations 

Cattle Market Q&A

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye sits down with Tim Petry from North Dakota State University to discuss the intricacies of the current cattle markets. The conversation covers producer-submitted questions, providing insights on price trends, the impact of global markets, and the future outlook for the cattle industry. Tim sheds light on the importance of sticking to traditional marketing plans, the volatility in the futures market, and the factors influencing the high demand and low supply scenario. He also shares valuable resources for producers to stay updated. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion aimed at helping producers make informed decisions in a fluctuating market. 

Get the resources mentioned in this episode here: https://bit.ly/CCC-resources 

Learn more about Profit Foundations for Ranchers here: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/profit-foundations-for-ranchers 

Order your flavor of Pluck here: https://eatpluck.com/?ref=SHAYEWANNER 

• 00:42 Meet Tim Petry: Cattle Market Expert 

• 03:38 Current State of the Cattle Market 

• 10:54 Producer Questions: Beef Prices and Market Trends 

• 15:53 Global Cattle Herds and Future Market Predictions 

• 23:24 Strategies for Producers in a Volatile Market 

• 30:11 Resources and Current Events 

• 39:15 Conclusion and Listener Support 

 

 

Improving Cattle Performance During Winter

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye Wanner speaks with Karla Wilke, cow-calf and stocker management specialist from the University of Nebraska, about managing cattle performance during harsh winter conditions. The discussion covers the impact of cold weather on cattle, optimal body condition scores, and strategies for cold stress management. Karla provides practical tips on using windbreaks, bedding, and adjusting feed to help cattle maintain their health and performance throughout winter. The episode also touches on the importance of monitoring body condition scores and being proactive in cattle management to avoid potential long-term negative effects. 

• 00:00 Welcome to Casual Cattle Conversations 
• 00:18 Introduction to Cold Stress Management 
• 01:10 Understanding Body Condition Scoring 
• 01:48 Cold Weather Impact on Cattle 
• 04:04 Proactive Body Condition Management 
• 06:52 Feeding Strategies for Winter 
• 11:30 Wind Breaks and Shelter Tips 
• 14:36 Preparing for Winter Storms 
• 21:20 Conclusion and Contact Information 

Catch Karla's first episode here: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/casual-cattle-conversations-podcast-shownotes/0ijj3c1vyqkspk4ls3xo7223qgqi77

Learn more and order your Pluck here: https://eatpluck.com/?ref=SHAYEWANNER

Find more information and more episodes at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/

Profitable Strategies for Marketing Heifers

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye Wanner interviews ranchers Jon and Patty about their approach to marketing open heifers. The conversation covers various sales methods, the importance of genomic testing, and strategies for building a high-quality herd. Jon and Patty share insights into their decade-long relationship with Wasem Red Angus, their balanced approach to breeding and selection, and the benefits of marketing through trusted partnerships. They also discuss the challenges they've faced and offer advice for other ranchers looking to improve their operations. This episode provides valuable knowledge for both seasoned ranchers and those new to the cattle industry.

 

Learn more about Pluck here: https://eatpluck.com/?ref=SHAYEWANNER

 

Find more information and more episodes at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/

 

00:00 Welcome to Casual Cattle Conversations

00:17 Meet Jon and Patty 

00:57 Why Bet on the Beef Industry?

02:13 Marketing Open Heifers: Strategies and Experiences

08:58 The Role of Genomic Testing

10:12 Challenges and Solutions in Heifer Marketing

13:44 Advice for Fellow Ranchers

19:21 Exploring New Marketing Avenues

23:49 Balancing Terminal and Maternal Traits

26:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

What Ranchers Need to Know About Fetal Programming

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/4lBtKRK
Find more information and more episodes at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/

00:39 Meet Kelly Sanders: Passion for Cattle Nutrition
02:53 Understanding Fetal Programming
04:25 Impact of Fetal Programming on the Beef Industry
15:53 Practical Steps for Ranchers
27:48 Final Thoughts and Resources

 

Keep Livestock Waters Open All Winter Long

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

Attract More Buyers with Value-Added Programs

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/

 

Are You Better off to Transition to a Non-Family Member?

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