The Podcast for Cattle Producers
For complete access to free resources, all podcasts, blog posts and RancherMind information please go to https://www.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.
For complete access to free resources, all podcasts, blog posts and RancherMind information please go to https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/
4 days ago
4 days ago
What if fencing your pastures no longer required posts, wires, or constant upkeep? In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, Shaye Wanner talks with Gary Tiller about virtual fencing technology and its game-changing potential for the cattle industry. From grazing efficiency and labor savings to better land utilization and improved quality of life for ranchers, Gary outlines how Merck Animal Health is shaping the future of livestock management with the SenseHub Vence product.
Discover what onboarding looks like, how the subscription model works, and how this tech supports sustainable agriculture and conservation programs. Whether you're a tech-savvy rancher or just curious about how this fits into your operation, this episode delivers insights that matter.
LEARN MORE ABOUT VENCE: https://bit.ly/4kfWrCG
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction to Virtual Fencing and Its Importance
03:01 – Benefits of Virtual Fencing for Ranchers
05:59 – Individual Ranch Goals and Adoption of Technology
08:44 – Government Support and Conservation Programs
11:35 – How Virtual Fencing Technology Works
14:39 – Onboarding Process for Ranchers
17:33 – Software Features and Benefits
20:25 – Challenges and Hesitations in Adopting Technology
23:17 – Evaluating Fit for Virtual Fencing
26:09 – Intangibles and Quality of Life Improvements
29:13 – Personal Reflections and Career Insights
CONNECT WITH SHAYE: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/
Monday Jun 16, 2025
Monday Jun 16, 2025
Monday Jun 16, 2025
In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner chats with Arlie Reeves about her family's journey raising Wagyu cattle. From the breed’s rich history to marketing premium beef and correcting industry misconceptions, Arlie shares valuable insights for ranchers, consumers, and anyone curious about the future of high-quality beef. Learn how consumer demand, direct-to-consumer sales, and proper animal husbandry all play a role in building a resilient Wagyu operation.
Whether you're new to the breed or considering diversifying your herd, this episode offers practical ranching advice and real-world lessons from the pasture.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
Wagyu cattle are prized for high marbling and quality.
Consumer interest in Wagyu has surged post-COVID.
Misconceptions persist around the breed’s origin and strength.
Direct-to-consumer sales empower transparency and education.
The cattle business requires patience and long-term vision.
Local processor relationships are key to success.
📌 Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Wagyu Cattle and the Beef Industry
03:11 – The Reeves Family Journey with Wagyu
06:12 – Marketing Wagyu Genetics and Beef
08:56 – Consumer Attraction to Wagyu Beef
11:48 – Misconceptions About Wagyu Cattle
14:59 – Advice for Aspiring Wagyu Ranchers
18:09 – Challenges and Resilience in Raising Wagyu
21:11 – Reflections and Lessons Learned
24:09 – Connecting with Consumers and Community
Episode Resources
Monday Jun 09, 2025
Monday Jun 09, 2025
Monday Jun 09, 2025
In this solo episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, Shaye Koester-Wanner addresses a feeling many ranchers know all too well—feeling behind. She explores why that mindset exists, how it relates to the entrepreneurial nature of ranching, and how shifting your perspective can lead to greater satisfaction and measurable progress.
Shaye shares actionable advice for setting clear goals, practicing self-reflection, and celebrating milestones—no matter how small. If you’re a rancher driven to succeed but often feel stuck or behind, this episode is a reminder that your progress deserves recognition.
Key Takeaways:
Ranchers share traits with high-performing entrepreneurs.
Progress should be measured backward, not forward.
Writing down goals helps you realize when you’ve surpassed them.
Celebrating achievements builds morale and motivation.
Success should be defined on your own terms.
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Success in Ranching
02:52 – Measuring Progress and Setting Goals
06:07 – Celebrating Achievements and Defining Success
Episode Resources
Move the Ranch Forward https://bit.ly/3YzU7h4
Vence https://bit.ly/4kfWrCG
Ambrook www.ambrook.com/casualcattle
Monday Jun 02, 2025
Monday Jun 02, 2025
Monday Jun 02, 2025
In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, Shaye Wanner and Mark Johnson discuss the practice of creep feeding in cattle management. They explore the advantages and disadvantages of creep feeding, its impact on calf weight gain, and the factors influencing its profitability. The conversation also delves into the importance of selecting the right ration for creep feeding and the potential of creep grazing as an alternative. Mark emphasizes the need for producers to evaluate their specific circumstances and market conditions to determine the viability of creep feeding in their operations.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Creep Feeding
05:00 Understanding Creep Feeding Benefits
10:08 Evaluating Profitability Factors
15:05 Ration Considerations for Creep Feeding
18:03 Final Thoughts on Creep Feeding
Try Ambrook for FREE: ambrook.com/casualcattle
Vence: https://bit.ly/4kfWrCG
https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/
Creep Grazing: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/casual-cattle-conversations-podcast-shownotes/creep-grazing
Monday May 26, 2025
Monday May 26, 2025
Monday May 26, 2025
In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner sits down with Dave Specht, a leading voice on generational ranching and family business continuity. Together, they dive into the complexities of ranch succession planning, emphasizing the importance of long-term goals, financial transparency, and the often-overlooked influence of matriarchs in agriculture.
Listeners will gain insights into:
Aligning generational expectations
Building stronger family relationships
Encouraging rising generations to find their fit
Using family history to shape future business decisions
Whether you're planning a ranch transition or strengthening your family’s communication, this episode is packed with valuable advice on securing the future of your family operation.
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Generational Ranching Dynamics
03:06 – Understanding Long-Term Goals in Family Ranching
05:54 – The Importance of Family Relationships
09:13 – Financial Transparency Across Generations
11:50 – Aligning Goals: Growth vs. Lifestyle
14:47 – The Role of Family History in Decision Making
18:06 – Generational Differences in Lifestyle Expectations
20:58 – Identifying Fit for the Family Business
24:03 – The Role of Matriarchs in Family Business Continuity
26:46 – Final Thoughts on Family Relationships and Business Success
Resources
Try Ambrook for FREE: ambrook.com/casualcattle
Monday May 19, 2025
Monday May 19, 2025
Monday May 19, 2025
In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner sits down with Jason and Candice, alongside Maika from Ambrook, to unpack the realities of diversified ranching, the power of precise bookkeeping, and how financial clarity is reshaping ranch businesses. From navigating multiple enterprises to earning consumer trust, this conversation is packed with insights for modern ranchers committed to growth, profitability, and transparency.
Whether you're running a multi-faceted operation or just looking to better understand your numbers, this episode sheds light on how tools like Ambrook can offer ranchers more control, confidence, and clarity.
Get 1 month of Ambrook FREE: ambrook.com/casualcattle
Key Takeaways:
Diversification is a smart strategy for risk management and profitability.
Clear bookkeeping reduces stress and improves decision-making.
Consumer confidence in agriculture starts with transparency.
Tools like Ambrook empower families running ranches and farms.
🔗 Learn more about Ambrook: ambrook.com/casualcattle
📩 Subscribe to the Casual Cattle Conversations newsletter for weekly insights.
Monday May 12, 2025
Monday May 12, 2025
Monday May 12, 2025
Are wedding venues and AirBNBs really a good way for ranchers to make more money? In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner sits down with Jason Wrich to explore how ranchers can diversify their income through alternative revenue streams like event hosting, Airbnb, and direct-to-consumer beef sales.
Jason shares the real story behind launching a destination ranch wedding venue, including the startup challenges, marketing strategies, and customer relationships that helped his business grow. He also offers insight into how direct-to-consumer agriculture and a focus on sustainable ranch business models can support generational success in the rural economy.
Whether you're considering alternative revenue for your own operation or just curious about entrepreneurship in agriculture, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration.
🔑 Topics Covered:
Starting a wedding venue on a ranch
Selling beef and pork directly to consumers
Hosting Airbnb guests on rural property
Managing startup costs and marketing
Long-term vision for sustainable ranch businesses
⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Alternative Revenue Streams
03:13 – Transitioning to Direct-to-Consumer Beef
05:18 – Starting a Wedding Venue Business
08:56 – Challenges in the First Year
12:10 – Location and Market Feasibility
16:10 – Unique Selling Points of the Venue
20:22 – Long-Term Goals and Vision
23:39 – Building Customer Relationships
25:30 – The Rewarding Aspects of Hosting Events
27:39 – Marketing Strategies for the Venue
29:39 – Advice for Aspiring Wedding Venue Hosts
✏️ RESOURCES
Westway Feed Products https://bit.ly/4lBtKRK
Ambrook Free Trial ambrook.com/casualcattle
Move the Ranch Forward https://bit.ly/3YzU7h4
Wrich Ranches https://www.wrichranches.com/
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more real conversations that help you grow your ranching business.
#RanchingReinvented #CattleRanching #RanchBusiness #AlternativeRevenue #DirectToConsumerBeef #FarmWeddingVenue #AgriTourism #RuralEntrepreneurship #SustainableRanching #CasualCattleConversations #ModernRancher #BeefBusiness #RanchLife
Monday May 05, 2025
Monday May 05, 2025
Monday May 05, 2025
Why is mental health in agriculture still hard to talk about? In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, Shaye Wanner talks with Bridgette and Lauren from the Rural Well Podcast about breaking generational cycles, building support systems, and encouraging therapy in rural communities. From signs of strong mental health to understanding generational trauma, this episode offers tools, stories, and real talk for farmers, ranchers, and anyone passionate about supporting mental health in ag.
🧠 Topics Covered:
Why mental health awareness is growing in agriculture
How to spot strong vs. struggling mental health
Resources and training for rural communities
Validating others’ experiences in farm families
The role of therapy and generational healing
✅ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more rancher-focused conversations!
📌 CHAPTERS:
00:00 – Introduction to Mental Health in Agriculture
02:05 – Why Bet on Agriculture?
03:30 – The Birth of the Rural Well Podcast
07:07 – Awareness of Mental Health in Agriculture
09:01 – Signs of Strong Mental Health
12:30 – Training for Mental Health Awareness
15:02 – Support Systems for Farmers
16:52 – Therapeutic Approaches for Farmers
18:07 – Understanding Generational Trauma
23:01 – Transforming Trauma into Strength
27:00 – The Role of Validation in Relationships
36:03 – Generational Perspectives on Mental Health
39:42 – Resources for Mental Health Support
Agri-stress helpline – 833-897-2474
National Farmers’ Mental Health Alliance
The Angel Network
Episode Resources
Westway Feeds: https://bit.ly/4lBtKRK
Rural Way Promotions: https://bit.ly/42IqKMd
#MentalHealthInAg #RuralMentalHealth #FarmerWellness #GenerationalTrauma #TherapyForFarmers #AgriculturePodcast #SupportFarmers #RuralWellPodcast #CasualCattleConversations #AgMentalHealth
Monday Apr 28, 2025
Monday Apr 28, 2025
Fertility is the foundation of profitability in any cow-calf operation—and in this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, Shaye Wanner is joined by Jennifer Koziol to talk about everything producers need to know about bull fertility. They break down the importance of breeding soundness exams, the difference between subfertility and infertility, and how genetics, nutrition, and stress affect a bull's ability to perform.
You’ll also hear valuable tips on managing young bulls, making smart bull-buying decisions, and working with veterinarians to set your herd up for success.
⏱️ Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Bull Fertility
02:08 – The Importance of Breeding Soundness Exams
08:09 – Understanding Subfertility vs. Infertility
12:40 – Genetic Factors in Bull Fertility
15:44 – Developing Bulls for Optimal Fertility
24:10 – Buying Bulls: Key Considerations
28:30 – Collaboration Between Veterinarians and Producers
🔔 Subscribe for more conversations that help you build a profitable and future-focused ranching business.
📕 Resources
Westway Feed Products https://bit.ly/4lBtKRK
Performance Beef https://hubs.la/Q03cBlb50
Move the Ranch Forward https://bit.ly/3YzU7h4
#CasualCattleConversations #BullFertility #CowCalfProduction #RanchingSuccess #BreedingSoundness #BeefGenetics #YoungBulls #VeterinarianPartnership #LivestockManagement #CattleNutrition #SubfertilityVsInfertility
Monday Apr 21, 2025
Monday Apr 21, 2025
Monday Apr 21, 2025
In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, Shaye Wanner talks with Kelly Sanders and Taylor Garcia from Westway Feed Products to break down the real benefits of liquid feed in the beef industry. From improving cattle nutrition to supporting better ranch management, this conversation tackles everything from urea safety and cost savings to optimizing calf growth. If you're curious about feed safety, supplement strategies, and boosting profitability on your ranch, this episode is for you.
Top Takeaways:
Liquid feed enhances pasture utilization and cow health.
Urea is safe and effective when used correctly.
Calves over 500 lbs can benefit from liquid nutritional supplements.
Liquid feed improves labor efficiency and can reduce feed costs.
Ranchers should seek customized feed programs for best results.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction to Liquid Feed and Its Importance
02:57 – Understanding Urea in Liquid Feed
05:58 – The Safety and Efficacy of Urea
08:55 – Cost Benefits of Liquid Feed
11:57 – Nutritional Value and Composition of Urea
15:12 – Year-Round Liquid Feed Availability
18:12 – Impact on Calf Growth and Development
20:48 – Debunking Myths About Urea
24:05 – Liquid Feed Delivery and Accessibility
26:48 – Final Thoughts and Resources
Connect with Westway Feed Products
📍 Learn more: https://bit.ly/4lBtKRK
Achieve Your Ranch Goals Faster 👉 https://bit.ly/3YzU7h4
Connect with Shaye – https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/