Casual Cattle Conversations

Keep or Cull: Economic Insights for Managing Open Cows

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, 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.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Cull cows can drive meaningful revenue.
• Ranchers must weigh costs, time, and resources when managing open cows.
• Market trends in beef prices reflect broader consumer demand.
• Ranchers show resilience and adaptability during economic pressure.
• Economic diplomacy supports industry-wide collaboration.

⏱️ Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction to the Beef Industry and Its Resilience
07:28 – Cull Cows: Economic Considerations and Rancher Decisions
16:42 – Analyzing the Value of Keeping Open Cows
24:35 – Market Trends and Future Predictions for Ranchers
36:32 – Final Thoughts and Personal Reflections on Ranching

Episode Resources

Noble Research: https://bit.ly/3DD7uG0

Cattle Marketing Series: https://bit.ly/46olT4K

Pluck Seasoning: https://eatpluck.com/?ref=SHAYEWANNER

The Future of Virtual Fencing with SenseHub Vence

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/

The Truth About Wagyu with Arlie Reeves

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.

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📌 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

https://bit.ly/4kfWrCG

https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ 

Why You Always Feel Behind on the Ranch And How to Fix It

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

Creep Feeding: Will it Pay Off?

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

 

Episode Resources

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 

Bloodlines and Bottom Lines: Navigating Family and Finance on the Ranch

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 

https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ 

A Simple Path to Financial Clarity for Ranchers with Ambrook

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.

https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ 

Ranch Wedding Venues: Is this the solution to quitting your off-farm job?

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

Mental Health and Ranching: Why You Should Dig Up the Family History Book

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

Bull Fertility 101: Genetics, Soundness Exams & Vet Collaboration | Jennifer Koziol

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