Casual Cattle Conversations

Maximizing Cattle Nutrition and Cost Efficiency with Liquid Feed

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/ 

A Must Attend Beef Industry Event

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, host Shaye Wanner speaks with Dr. Bob Weber about the upcoming Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) convention. They discuss the importance of encouraging the younger generation to return to ranching, the role of BIF in the beef industry, and the significance of networking at such events.

The conversation also highlights the Young Producer Symposium, which aims to engage young ranchers in discussions about entrepreneurship, transition planning, and advocacy. Additionally, they explore the impact of AI and machine learning on ranching practices, as well as the logistics of the BIF convention and the value of attending.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

02:19 Encouraging the Next Generation in Ranching

05:14 Understanding the Beef Improvement Federation (BIF)

11:05 The Importance of Networking at BIF

14:38 Young Producer Symposium Overview

22:23 Key Topics at the BIF Convention

34:38 The Role of AI and Machine Learning in Ranching

39:00 Tours and Event Logistics

42:10 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

BIF https://bit.ly/42tg9Du

Performance Beef https://hubs.la/Q03cBlb50

Vigortone Mineral https://bit.ly/3Xe6EGr

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

Connect with the Shaye https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/

#ranching #farming #beefcattle #beefgenetics #cattlebusiness

Grazing Mistakes that Could Cost You the Ranch

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner talks with Devlon Ford of the Noble Research Institute about the fundamentals of grazing management, cattle management, and regenerative ranching. They cover the importance of understanding carrying capacity, stocking rate, and stock density to ensure sustainable and profitable ranching practices.

Devlon provides valuable insights on how to create effective grazing plans, avoid common mistakes, and adapt your strategy for better livestock health and increased profitability. This episode is packed with expert advice on how to balance your grazing strategy to avoid costly mistakes, improve your land, and achieve long-term sustainability. Whether you're a rancher or looking to start in the industry, this conversation will help you make informed decisions about your grazing management.

Key Topics:

The science of grazing management

Carrying capacity vs. stocking rate

How stock density affects soil health and grazing efficiency

The impact of grazing decisions on profitability and livestock health

Creating adaptive grazing plans for your ranch

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment to let us know your thoughts on regenerative ranching and sustainable grazing practices!

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Grazing and Profitability

02:24 - Understanding Carrying Capacity vs. Stocking Rate

14:36 - The Importance of Stock Density in Grazing Management

18:48 - Profitability Implications of Grazing Decisions

22:20 - Adaptive Grazing Strategies for Different Operations

26:22 - Common Mistakes and Missed Opportunities in Grazing Plans

30:00 - Evaluating and Adjusting Herd Size for Sustainability

Resources:

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

Cargill/Vigortone Mineral – https://bit.ly/3Xe6EGr

Performance Livestock Analytics – https://hubs.la/Q03cBlb50

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

#grazing #stockingrate #nobleresearch #ranching #beef

Getting Back to Face-to-Face Consumer Interactions

Advocating for the beef industry isn’t just about social media posts—it’s about real, face-to-face conversations that build trust and understanding. In this episode, Kathy Tokash joins Shaye Wanner to share how ranchers can make a difference by engaging with consumers, healthcare professionals, and students.

From classroom visits to conversations in the grocery store, Kathy discusses how personal stories and everyday interactions help bridge the gap between ranchers and consumers. Learn how advocacy has evolved and why even small efforts can shape the future of ranching.

🔹 Why face-to-face advocacy is more powerful than ever
🔹 How youth engagement ensures a strong future for the beef industry
🔹 The role of nutrition education in consumer trust

🔹How advocacy has changed over time
🔹 Easy ways to get started with advocacy today

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction to Beef Advocacy: Why it Matters More Than Ever

02:14 – The Importance of the Beef Industry in Everyday Life

05:26 – Face-to-Face Advocacy Strategies: How Ranchers Can Connect with Consumers

11:05 – Advocacy in Healthcare Settings: Educating Professionals on Beef’s Benefits 16:36 – Engaging with Youth: Inspiring the Next Generation of Ranchers & Advocates 24:40 – The Evolution of Advocacy: From Beef Samples to Meaningful Conversations 26:20 – Getting Involved in Advocacy: Small Steps Every Rancher Can Take

Resources

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

Performance Livestock Analytics: https://hubs.la/Q03cBlb50

Cargill Animal Nutrition: https://bit.ly/3Xe6EGr

Casual Cattle Conversations https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/

Tune in to learn how you can champion the beef industry and create lasting connections—one conversation at a time!

#BeefIndustry #CattleAdvocacy #Ranching #ConsumerEducation

How to Successfully Scale Your Cattle Operation

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner sits down with Thaddeus Tharp, an experienced ag lender with deep roots in agriculture and beef production. They explore the critical role of relationships in ag lending, the importance of financial management, and key risk management strategies for cattle producers. Thaddeus shares insights on scaling operations, leveraging technology, and building a strong team to ensure long-term success in the beef industry. Whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to help you navigate the financial side of ranching.

Key Takeaways

✅ The beef industry offers independence and a unique lifestyle.

✅ Strong relationships are essential for success in ag lending.

✅ Financial management and understanding your numbers are crucial.

✅ Risk management strategies, including price protection, are vital.

✅ Scaling operations requires financial readiness and working capital.

✅ Technology can enhance efficiency and decision-making.

✅ A strong team is key to success in agriculture.

✅ Long-term goals and work-life balance should not be overlooked.

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to the Beef Industry and Ag Lending

03:00 – Thaddeus Tharp’s Background and Experience

06:09 – The Importance of Relationships in Ag Lending

09:08 – Understanding Numbers and Financial Management

12:10 – Risk Management Strategies for Cattle Producers

15:02 – Scaling Operations: Factors to Consider

18:02 – Leveraging Technology in Cattle Operations

21:11 – Building a Strong Team for Success

24:08 – Final Thoughts and Advice for Producers

Resources:

Performance Beef: https://hubs.la/Q03cBlb50

Red Angus: https://bit.ly/4iaU6bb

Cargill Animal Nutrition: https://bit.ly/3Xe6EGr

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

Are You Wasting Money on Vaccines? Proper Protocols Explained

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner sits down with Blane Lowe to break down the essentials of vaccine efficacy in cattle health and ranch profitability. From veterinary best practices to vaccination protocols, they cover everything you need to know to keep your herd healthy and thriving. Learn why reading vaccine labels, proper storage, and working closely with your veterinarian are key to maximizing animal health and beef production outcomes. Whether you're a seasoned rancher or just starting out, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you make informed decisions on cattle management and disease prevention.

🔹 Key Topics Covered:
✅ The superhero role of cattle in food production
✅ Best practices for vaccine storage and administration
✅ Why following the label is critical for vaccine efficacy
✅ How a strong veterinary-client relationship improves herd health
✅ The cost-benefit of investing in vaccines for long-term ranch success

Tune in now to ensure your ranch stays ahead with effective vaccination strategies!

🔔 Subscribe for more expert insights on ranching, cattle health, and the beef industry!

Resources:

RAAA https://bit.ly/4iaU6bb

Cargill https://bit.ly/3Xe6EGr

Noble https://bit.ly/3DD7uG0

Casual Cattle Conversations https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/

#CattleHealth #VaccineEfficacy #BeefIndustry #Ranching #VeterinaryPractices #AnimalHealth #CattleManagement

Virtual Fencing: Is it right for your ranch with Jessie Jarvis

Virtual fencing is changing the way ranchers manage cattle and land. In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, Shaye Wanner talks with rancher Jessie Jarvis about her family's journey with virtual fencing—why they made the switch, the challenges they faced, and how it impacts grazing strategies, fire recovery, and BLM relationships.

Learn what it takes to train cattle for virtual fencing, the financial considerations, and how this technology can improve ranch profitability. Don’t miss these valuable insights—hit play now!

00:00 Introduction to Virtual Fencing in Ranching

04:58 The Decision to Implement Virtual Fencing

09:57 Onboarding Process and Training Cattle

14:47 Cost Considerations and Future Implications

19:55 Building Relationships with BLM and Community

24:47 Final Thoughts and Resources for Ranchers

🔔 Subscribe for more ranching insights!

💬 Have experience with virtual fencing? Drop a comment below!

Episode Resources:

Red Angus: https://bit.ly/4iaU6bb

Cargill: https://bit.ly/3Xe6EGr

#Ranching #CattleFarming #VirtualFencing #SustainableRanching #CattleManagement #RegenerativeAg #AgTech #GrazingStrategies #FireRecovery #RanchProfitability #LivestockFarming #BLM #CattleTraining #BeefIndustry #RanchLife

How Ranchers Can Get the Most Out of Their Mineral Program

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner sits down with Russell Carrell of Cargill Animal Nutrition to explore strategies for optimizing mineral programs for beef cattle. They cover how to ensure consistent mineral consumption, the impact of water quality on mineral intake, and best practices for mineral feeder placement. Plus, they discuss seasonal mineral adjustments, the differences between organic vs. inorganic minerals, and new innovations in cattle nutrition. Learn how proper cow nutrition impacts calf health, the role of salt in mineral consumption, and why consulting an expert can help ranchers maximize herd performance.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Consistent mineral intake is more important than high mineral levels.
✅ Water quality can significantly affect mineral absorption.
✅ Proper feeder placement ensures effective mineral consumption.
✅ Seasonal shifts impact mineral requirements.
✅ Organic minerals offer unique benefits in certain conditions.
✅ Weaning minerals support calf development.
✅ Cow nutrition during pregnancy affects long-term calf health.
✅ Salt can drive mineral intake but should be used strategically.
✅ Expert guidance helps tailor mineral programs for optimal results.

Episode Chapters:

⏱ 00:00 – Introduction to Mineral Programs
⏱ 03:03 – Common Challenges in Mineral Consumption
⏱ 06:04 – The Role of Water in Cattle Mineral Programs
⏱ 09:05 – Best Practices for Mineral Feeder Placement
⏱ 12:03 – How Seasons Affect Mineral Needs
⏱ 14:51 – Choosing the Right Mineral for Your Herd
⏱ 18:04 – Organic vs. Inorganic Minerals: What to Know
⏱ 20:55 – Innovations in Cattle Mineral Nutrition
⏱ 24:03 – How Cow Nutrition Impacts Calf Health
⏱ 26:59 – The Role of Salt in Mineral Programs
⏱ 30:12 – Final Thoughts & Expert Advice

🔔 Subscribe now to Casual Cattle Conversations for more expert insights on improving your ranching operation!

Learn More About Cargill: https://bit.ly/3Xe6EGr 

Connect with the Host: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ 

Smarter Ranching Starts Here: Wearable Tech for Breeding Season and Animal Health

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner speaks with Andrew Uden about the growing role of wearable technology in ranching. They discuss how wearables can enhance ranch management, particularly during breeding season and for monitoring animal health. Andrew shares insights on the benefits of data collection, the metrics that wearables measure, and how this technology can lead to better decision-making for ranchers.

The conversation also touches on the future of wearables in the industry and the questions ranchers should consider before implementing this technology.

Takeaways

• Wearables are becoming increasingly cost-effective for ranchers.

• The beef industry is seeing more collaboration among its sectors.

• Wearables provide early insights into animal health and behavior.

• Data from wearables can help detect issues like foot rot sooner.

• Ranchers can use wearables to monitor breeding cycles more effectively.

• The technology allows for better management of herd health.

• Wearables can enhance the efficiency of ranch operations.

• Data sharing with veterinarians can improve animal care.

• The future of ranching includes a broader ecosystem of technology.

• Ranchers need to assess their readiness for adopting wearable technology.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Wearable Technology in Ranching

02:15 The Passion for the Beef Industry

04:39 Benefits of Wearables for Ranch Management

10:44 Metrics for Breeding Season and Animal Health

17:20 Data Insights for Herd Health and Breeding

23:30 Future of Wearables in Ranching

36:12 Evaluating the Need for Wearables

Learn more about HerdDogg: https://bit.ly/3EjuUAm

Connect with me! https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/

What Ranchers Need to Know About Carbon Markets

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Koester-Wanner engages with Ryan and James from Earth Optics to explore the intricacies of carbon markets in ranching. They discuss the basics of carbon markets, how they function, and the opportunities and risks for ranchers.

The conversation highlights the role of Earth Optics in measuring soil health and carbon sequestration, the current trends in carbon markets, and the legal considerations ranchers should be aware of.

Takeaways

• Carbon markets provide additional revenue streams for ranchers.

• Sustainable practices are key to participating in carbon markets.

• Earth Optics uses advanced technology for soil measurement.

• Legal counsel is crucial when entering carbon agreements.

• Ranchers must consider the long-term commitment of contracts.

• Communication with project developers is essential.

• Drought and environmental changes are accounted for in contracts.

• Renters can negotiate terms for carbon participation.

• Understanding the additionality requirement is important.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Carbon Markets in Ranching

05:40 Understanding Carbon Markets: Basics and Functionality

11:14 The Role of Earth Optics in Carbon Measurement

13:40 Current Trends and Opportunities in Carbon Markets

18:21 Risks and Considerations for Ranchers

24:01 Navigating Carbon Programs for Renters

27:41 Challenges and Reasons for Non-Participation

30:59 Legal Considerations in Carbon Agreements

34:51 Flexibility in Management Practices

38:11 Working with Producers: The Earth Optics Experience

41:28 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Ranchers

Resources

Learn more about Earth Optics: https://bit.ly/40Y0nQk

Learn more about HerdDogg: https://bit.ly/3EjuUAm

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

#CasualCattleConversations #Ranching #CarbonMarkets #RegenerativeAg #SustainableFarming #SoilHealth #EarthOptics #CarbonFarming #CattleBusiness #AgTech #BeefIndustry #RancherLife #CarbonSequestration #AgricultureInnovation #CattleProfitability