Casual Cattle Conversations

Connecting the Chain: Collaboration and Profitability in Modern Ranching

Are you ready to turn your ranch into a profit powerhouse? In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner is joined by Ian Wheal and Suzy Wheal to explore the transformative potential of data-driven decision-making in the beef industry. Together, they dive into the concept of a full-circle beef supply chain, emphasizing mutual gain, sustainability, and profitability for ranchers of all sizes. Discover how Breeder's innovative technology is helping producers measure, manage, and improve their operations by unlocking critical insights into genetics, performance, and market trends. Whether you're curious about increasing carcass quality, reducing environmental impact, or embracing a collaborative industry mindset, this episode offers actionable strategies to help ranchers become price makers, not price takers. Tune in for a forward-thinking discussion that redefines the future of ranching.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Beef Industry's Future
05:40 The Shift from Linear to Circular Beef Models
11:46 Measuring Success: Data-Driven Decisions in Ranching
16:35 Cultural Shifts and Mindset Changes in Beef Production
22:26 Overcoming Data-Sharing Fears in the Supply Chain
26:49 Building Collaborative Relationships in Beef Production
31:41 Risks and Rewards of Joining Full Circle Beef Systems
36:12 Who Should Embrace the Full Circle Beef Model?
38:43 Getting Started with Breeder and Future Initiatives

Resources:

Breedr – https://bit.ly/4frK57m 

The Ultimate Goal-Setting Guide for Ranchers – https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events/p/move-the-ranch-forward-2025 

RancherMinds – https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events 

Vacation Ideas for Ranchers and Their Families

Taking time away from the ranch isn’t easy, but it’s essential for mental clarity and family bonding. In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner speaks with Cheyenne Schriefer, a rancher and travel agent, about practical vacation ideas for ranch families. From quick road trips to stress-free Caribbean getaways, Cheyenne shares tips on planning trips, finding support while you’re away, and making the most of your time off without overwhelming yourself or your operation.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ranch Life and Travel
09:55 Weekend Getaway Ideas for Ranchers
14:00 Longer Vacation Options for Ranchers
19:55 Travel Tips and Considerations
23:46 Convincing Your Partner to Travel
27:55 Planning Around Conventions and Attractions

Takeaways

• Ranchers often struggle to take time off due to the demands of their work.
• Making family vacations a priority is essential for work-life balance.
• Weekend trips to national parks are popular among ranchers.
• Travel insurance is crucial for unexpected travel hiccups.
• Kindness and flexibility can greatly enhance travel experiences.
• Planning around conventions can lead to enjoyable family trips.
• Using travel agencies can alleviate the stress of planning trips.
• Traveling with kids can be easier when they are younger.
  
  

Connect with Cheyenne: https://www.alltravelmatters.com/

Offer Show Feedback: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/contact 

The Ultimate Goal-setting Guide for Ranchers: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events/p/move-the-ranch-forward-2025 

 

 

The Missing Piece of Estate and Transition Planning the Younger Generation Needs to Do

S7, EP 51 – Are your finances holding your ranch back? In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Koester-Wanner sits down with financial expert Jessica Groskopf to tackle the challenges of financial planning for farmers and ranchers. Together, they break down actionable strategies to secure your operation’s future, from estate and transition planning to building emergency funds and distinguishing good debt from bad debt. Discover why early investing, alternative revenue streams, and separating personal and farm finances are critical for lasting success in agriculture. Jessica also shares tips to simplify financial management and take control, even when it feels overwhelming.

Key Takeaways

• Financial planning is vital for young farmers and ranchers.
• Estate and transition planning ensure a sustainable future for your operation.
• Start saving early to build long-term wealth.
• Maintain an emergency fund covering three to six months of expenses.
• Understand the difference between good debt and bad debt.
• Invest in flexible accounts to grow financial security.
• Explore alternative revenue streams to diversify income.
• Separating personal and farm finances is a game-changer.
• Small steps lead to significant improvements in financial management.
• Seeking advice from financial experts can alleviate stress.

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Transition Planning
04:19 – Empowering the Next Generation of Ranchers
06:49 – Early Wealth-Building Strategies
12:55 – Setting Up an Emergency Fund
21:09 – Good Debt vs. Bad Debt Explained
26:17 – Smart Investing for Farmers
33:32 – Diversifying with Alternative Revenue Streams
35:49 – Steps to Financial Freedom

RancherMinds: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events 

The Ultimate Goal-setting Guide for Ranchers: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events/p/move-the-ranch-forward-2025 

Connect with Jessica on Instagram @jessica_groskopf

Simple Strategies to Increase Direct-to-Consumer Meat Sales

In this conversation, Shaye Koester-Wanner and JT Jerret discuss effective marketing strategies for ranchers, particularly in the meat industry. They emphasize the importance of understanding copywriting, identifying target audiences, and leveraging direct-to-consumer sales. The discussion covers missed opportunities in marketing, the significance of email marketing, and actionable steps for ranchers to enhance their beef sales strategies. JT shares insights on buyer archetypes and the marketing triangle framework, providing listeners with practical advice to grow their businesses.

 

Takeaways

• Create content that resonates with your audience.
• Direct-to-consumer sales can increase profitability.
• Understanding your target audience is key.
• Identify buyer archetypes to tailor your marketing.
• Engagement in communities can build your audience.
• Email marketing offers a high return on investment.
• Focus on providing value before selling.
• Start with simple, actionable steps to grow your business.

 

Chapters

 

00:00 Introduction to Direct-to-Consumer Meat Sales

04:42 Understanding Copywriting and Its Importance

07:24 Missed Opportunities in Meat Sales

10:24 Identifying Your Target Audience

13:31 Strategies to Reach Your Target Audience

16:43 The Role of Email Marketing

19:38 Building Your Direct-to-Consumer Brand

23:10 The Marketing Triangle: Market, Message, Media

26:15 Final Thoughts and Action Steps

 

Resources

https://farmrebel.org/

https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events

Mastering Ranch Communication: Terryn Drieling’s Insights on Leadership and Connection

In this conversation, Shaye Koester-Wanner and Terryn Drieling explore the importance of communication in ranching, particularly during high-stress situations. They discuss the role of self-awareness and the Enneagram in understanding personal and interpersonal dynamics. The conversation emphasizes practical strategies for improving communication skills, assessing one's communication effectiveness, and managing emotional responses in challenging environments. Terryn shares insights on fostering a supportive community among ranchers and the significance of honest questions in enhancing communication.

 

Takeaways

• Self-awareness is crucial for effective communication.
• The Enneagram helps understand the 'why' behind behaviors.
• Good communication ensures safety in high-stress situations.
• Reflecting on past interactions aids in improving communication skills.
• Asking honest questions can enhance understanding and connection.
• Grounding techniques can help manage emotional responses.
• Modeling desired communication behaviors influences others.
• Curiosity is essential for fostering better communication.
• Connection and open communication are vital for family operations.

Chapters

 

00:00 Revisiting Communication on the Ranch

05:44 The Importance of Effective Communication

08:46 Understanding the Enneagram and Self-Awareness

11:22 Assessing Communication Skills

15:34 Improving Communication Skills

18:30 Managing Emotions in High-Stress Situations

21:08 Dealing with Reactive Individuals

24:29 The Ripple Effect of Energy in Communication

27:14 Final Thoughts on Communication

Resources

Top Dollar Angus https://topdollarangus.com/ 

RancherMinds https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events 

Terryn's Website https://faithfamilyandbeef.com/ 

How to Set Goals for Your Ranch https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events/p/move-the-ranch-forward-2025 

Communicating Science about Livestock with Keith Belk

S7, E48 – Discover the importance of uncomfortable conversations in shaping the future of the livestock industry. Dr. Keith Belk discusses insights from the 2024 International Summit on the Societal Role of Meat and Livestock, including science-based communication, ecological impacts, and the need for proactive engagement. Learn how producers can use facts to navigate evolving societal perceptions of meat production.

Takeaways

• Effective communication of scientific data is crucial for the livestock industry.
• There is a need for clear definitions in the industry to avoid misrepresentation.
• Public understanding of science is lacking and needs improvement.
• Producers should engage with society to share the realities of their practices.
• Global perspectives can inform local practices and policies in agriculture.
• Collaboration among producers and scientists is essential for progress.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Keith Belk and His Role in the Beef Industry
04:15 The 2024 International Summit on Meat and Livestock
07:31 Communicating Science: Challenges and Strategies
10:20 The Role of Policy Makers in Meat Production
13:13 Call to Action for Ranchers
16:25 Addressing Misconceptions in Animal Agriculture
19:11 Uncomfortable Conversations in the Industry
22:06 Defining Terms in Animal Agriculture
25:59 Improving Public Understanding of Science
29:18 The Importance of Advocacy in Agriculture
32:07 Global Perspectives on Meat Production
34:56 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Resources

Westway Feeds: https://westwayfeed.com/ 

International Summit: https://societalroleofmeat.org/ 

RancherMinds: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events 

Goal-setting for Ranchers: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events/p/move-the-ranch-forward-2025 

 

Establishing Equal Pricing for Red Angus Cattle

S7, EP 47: In this conversation, Shaye Koester-Wanner speaks with Kelly and Taylor from the Red Angus Association about the challenges and opportunities in the cattle industry, particularly focusing on the pricing disparities between Red and Black Angus cattle. They discuss the importance of marketing programs, the upcoming Sustainable Beef Plant, and the need for better tracking and tagging of cattle to ensure equal pricing and market access. The conversation highlights the optimism surrounding the future of Red Angus and the collaborative efforts to enhance the breed's market presence.

Takeaways

• The Red Angus Association is focused on establishing equal pricing for Red and Black Angus cattle.
• Marketing opportunities for commercial cattlemen are expanding through various programs.
• The Sustainable Beef Plant aims to create a level playing field for pricing.
• Engagement in tagging programs is crucial for tracking cattle and ensuring market access.
• The Red Angus breed is recognized for its high-quality genetics and maternal traits.
• Collaboration between producers, feeders, and packers is essential for success.
• The industry is seeing a shift towards sustainability and transparency in beef production.
• Optimism is high regarding the future of the Red Angus breed and its market potential.
• Producers are encouraged to participate in programs that enhance the value of their cattle.
• The Red Angus cow is celebrated for its superior qualities in the cattle industry.

 

Key Moments

00:00 Introduction to Red Angus Marketing Opportunities
06:28 Commercial Cattlemen's Pathways to Market
10:57 Equal Pricing: Red vs. Black Cattle
19:55 The Sustainable Beef Plant: A New Era
25:31 Getting Involved with Sustainable Beef
32:33 Final Thoughts and Optimism for the Future

 

Resources

https://redangus.org/

https://westwayfeed.com/

https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events/p/move-the-ranch-forward-2025

 

 

Liquid Feed for Cattle: Benefits, Costs & Ranching Insights with Drs. Neuhold & Sanders

S 7, EP 46 – This conversation delves into the fundamentals of liquid feed in the cattle industry, exploring its usage, economic advantages, and nutritional benefits. Drs. Kelley Neuhold and Kelly Sanders with Westway Feed Products discuss how liquid feed varies across geographical regions, its historical context, and the practical considerations ranchers should evaluate when considering liquid feed for their operations. The discussion emphasizes the efficiency, labor savings, and nutritional enhancements that liquid feed can provide, making it a compelling option for cattle producers.

Takeaways

• Liquid feed is used differently across geographical regions.
• The economics of liquid feed can lead to significant savings.
• Liquid feed can improve cattle nutrition and efficiency.
• Understanding the cost per head per day is crucial.
• Liquid feed can help maintain body condition scores in cattle.
• Labor savings are a significant advantage of liquid feed.
• Liquid feed can enhance the digestibility of forages.
• Ranchers should evaluate their goals when considering liquid feed.
• Liquid feed can be a convenient solution for busy ranchers.
• Availability of liquid feed is widespread across the country.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Liquid Feed and Its Experts
06:46 Understanding Liquid Feed: Composition and Variability
11:39 The Historical Evolution of Liquid Feed
11:46 Introduction to Liquid Feed and Its Variability
16:18 Understanding the Economic Benefits of Liquid Feed
27:16 Evaluating Liquid Feed for Your Ranch Needs
32:51 Final Thoughts and Resources for Liquid Feed

Connect with an expert about liquid feed: https://westwayfeed.com/the-best-way-to-raise-beef-liquid-feed/

Move the Ranch Forward: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events/p/move-the-ranch-forward-2025 

Free Ranching Resources: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranching-resources 

The Ultimate Guide for Training Ranch Employees

S7, E 45: In this episode, I sit down with Erin McKnight, a cattle producer from the Sandhills of Saskatchewan, Canada, to explore her journey and the creation of Ranch Academy.

Erin shares how Ranch Academy, her online program, equips hired hands with essential skills and knowledge—covering everything from equipment safety and cattle handling to water system troubleshooting. Originally developed to streamline her own training process, Ranch Academy has grown into a powerful tool that helps ranchers reduce training time, empower new employees, and prevent costly mistakes. This conversation is packed with insights for anyone involved in ranching or interested in the future of hands-on ranch management.

So, grab a coffee, tune in, and join us for another conversation that’s as real and rugged as ranch life itself.

Takeaways

• Training employees is crucial for effective ranch management.
• Ranch Academy provides practical solutions for common ranching challenges.
• Empowering employees leads to increased confidence and productivity.
• Customization of training materials is essential for different ranch operations.
• Clear communication is key to preventing misunderstandings and mistakes.
• Ranch Academy can benefit individuals of all ages, not just employees.
• The program includes troubleshooting for various ranching scenarios.
• Training can reduce the need for constant supervision of employees.
• Understanding the unique needs of each ranch is vital for effective training.
• Building trust through communication enhances team dynamics.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ranch Academy and Its Purpose
04:56 The Development of Ranch Academy
07:39 Content and Structure of Ranch Academy
10:24 Customization and Accessibility of Ranch Academy
13:47 The Importance of Communication in Ranching
15:40 Conclusion and Resources for Ranch Academy

Resources:

Westway Feeds - https://westwayfeed.com/ 

Ranch Academy - https://www.mcknightranch.ca/academy 

Move the Ranch Forward - https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events/p/move-the-ranch-forward-2025 

Boost Ranch Profit & Productivity with Simple Strategies

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, Shaye shares actionable strategies to help ranchers increase both profitability and productivity without burning out. She kicks things off by addressing common misconceptions about productivity—more hours don't necessarily mean more profit. Instead, Shaye highlights the importance of focusing on high-impact tasks that drive the ranch forward.

Key Takeaways:

Identify Revenue-Driving Tasks: Start by making a list of daily, weekly, and monthly activities. Then, star the tasks that directly contribute to generating revenue and productivity.

Know Your Numbers: Ranchers must understand their financials beyond year-end taxes. Shaye shares tips on creating a clear financial picture and the importance of delegating bookkeeping if it's not your strength.

Set Clear Goals: Break down your ranch’s goals into 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year increments. Knowing your long-term goals helps you align your short-term actions for success.

Enhance Communication: Whether you're a solo operator or have a team, effective communication can make or break productivity. Shaye shares examples from her own ranch life and stresses the importance of clear, concise instructions.

Leverage Technology: Automate and delegate tasks using modern tech tools to save time and reduce stress. Shaye encourages ranchers to assess what can be automated to focus on high-impact tasks.

Prioritize with the Four-Quadrant Method: Use this method to separate urgent from non-urgent and important from unimportant tasks. It’s an easy way to break down overwhelming to-do lists and stay focused on the right things.

Reduce Screen Time: Set boundaries with your phone to enhance mental health and productivity. Shaye shares how limiting screen time drastically improved her focus on the ranch.

Resources Mentioned:

Move Your Ranch Forward Goal Setting Book: Get Shaye’s digital guide to help set and prioritize your ranch’s goals for 2025. https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events/p/move-the-ranch-forward-2025

RancherMinds Program: Join Shaye’s community to dive deeper into ranching profitability and productivity. https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events

Ranch Channel: Find your next herd sire FAST with this great resource. https://ranchchannel.com/