Casual Cattle Conversations

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

Alternative Ranch Revenue: Does influencing pay off?

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye talks with Tucker Brown about using social media as an alternative revenue stream for ranchers. Tucker shares his journey of leveraging platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to not only market their cattle operations but also create a substantial income. He discusses the challenges and rewards, the transition from casual posting to serious content creation, and the impact this has had on his family's life. He also gives practical advice on storytelling, handling negative feedback, and selecting brand partnerships, emphasizing the importance of staying authentic and strategic. This insightful conversation sheds light on how ranchers, especially the younger generation, can use social media to sustain and grow their family operations while inviting more people into the world of agriculture.

 

Learn more about Performance Beef: https://bit.ly/47PxY3W

Learn more about Red Angus here: https://bit.ly/4iaU6bb 

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

 

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:41 Meet Tucker Brown: A Ranching Legacy

03:14 Social Media as a Revenue Source 05:20 The Journey and Impact of Social Media

11:22 Monetization and Brand Partnerships

16:13 Advice for Aspiring Social Media Influencers

22:06 The Long Game: Building a Sustainable Presence

24:14 Speaking Engagements and Final Thoughts

 

 

 

How to Extend Grazing Seasons in Northern Climates

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye chats with Luke Ressler about innovative ranching practices that improve both livestock management and soil health. Luke and his wife Elli operate a diversified ranch in Northeastern North Dakota. They delve into the benefits of using cover crops and bale grazing to extend grazing days and enhance soil quality, especially in challenging Northern climates. Luke shares insights from their fall and winter grazing practices, the integration of no-till farming, and their transition to fall calving. The episode also covers the challenges and learning curves associated with these methods, offering practical advice for ranchers looking to adopt similar strategies.

 

00:17 Meet Luke Ressler: Diversified Ranching in North Dakota

02:40 Grazing Practices and Soil Health

07:29 Cover Crops: Implementation and Benefits

19:27 Challenges and Adaptations in Ranching

25:10 Bale Grazing: Techniques and Benefits

34:30 Reflections and Future Plans

 

Learn more about Performance Beef: https://bit.ly/47PxY3W

Learn more about Red Angus here: https://bit.ly/4iaU6bb 

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

6 Tips for Choosing a Herd Record System to Maximize Profit

In this solo episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, Shaye Wanner walks through six key factors ranchers should consider when choosing herd management software. From cost and user access to ease of use and long-term value, Shaye shares real-world experiences from both seedstock and commercial operations.

Whether you’re still jotting notes in a red calving book or testing out digital platforms, this episode will help you evaluate which system best fits your ranch’s needs, reduces stress, and increases profitability.

👉 Tune in for practical insights that make recordkeeping easier and more profitable for your operation.

📌 What You’ll Learn:
0:00 – Introduction
1:20 – Why herd records matter for profitability
2:20 – Factor 1: What problems does it solve?
4:45 – Factor 2: Will it work for your ranch in 5 years?
7:10 – Factor 3: Cost and return on investment
9:39 – Factor 4: User access and team needs
11:00 – Factor 5: Web-based, app-based, or both?
12:04 – Factor 6: Ease of use for your crew
14:32 – Bonus: Onboarding and training for success
16:00 – Final recap and closing thoughts

Resources: 

Performance Beef: https://bit.ly/47PxY3W

https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/

Profit Tips and Technology for Receiving Calves

Host Shaye Wanner speaks with Jared Ranly, a veterinarian and backgrounder, about effective strategies for receiving cattle and enhancing profitability in the beef industry.

Jared shares his extensive experience in the cow-calf and backgrounding sectors, emphasizing the importance of health protocols, nutrition, and technology in managing cattle operations – specifically how Performance Beef positively impacts the profit and confidence of cattle feeders.

The conversation also highlights common challenges faced during the receiving process and the significance of maintaining good veterinary-client relationships and accurate record-keeping for better decision-making.

Learn more about Performance Beef: https://bit.ly/47PxY3W

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cattle Conversations

00:55 Jared's Background in the Beef Industry

04:05 Receiving Cattle: Key Steps and Protocols

10:05 Challenges in Receiving Cattle

14:02 Technology and Profitability in Cattle Management

22:01 The Importance of Record Keeping

23:58 Final Thoughts and Advice

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