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/
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Shaye Koester-Wanner shares 3 tips for young ranchers who want to take control of their future in the beef industry. Shaye finds these tips helpful as a young rancher herself and they are derived from her years of podcasting and own experiences in the ranching industry.
Key Messages
Resources
HerdDogg: https://bit.ly/3EjuUAm
Refresh Your Podcast: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/podcast-refresh
Monday Feb 03, 2025
Monday Feb 03, 2025
Monday Feb 03, 2025
In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner speaks with Karla Wilke about the unique nutritional needs of young cows, particularly second-calvers. They discuss the importance of understanding the energy requirements of these high-risk females, effective management practices, and the challenges posed by drought conditions. Karla emphasizes the need for ranchers to meet the nutritional needs of their heifers without babying them, ensuring they are set up for success in their reproductive cycles. The conversation highlights the significance of proper nutrition, management strategies, and the passion for the beef industry.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Cattle Nutrition Needs
02:24 Understanding the Importance of Second Calvers
05:03 High-Risk Females: The Three-Year-Olds
11:14 Meeting Nutritional Needs vs. Babying Heifers
15:43 Effective Management Practices for Heifers
22:57 Navigating Drought Conditions in Ranching
26:36 Final Thoughts on the Ranching Industry
Resources
HerdDogg https://bit.ly/3EjuUAm
Podcast Refresh https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/podcast-refresh
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
In this episode, Shaye Koester-Wanner interviews Lettie Nickell about her journey in creating alternative revenue streams for her family ranch. Lettie shares her experiences in starting an Airbnb from a converted grain bin, the marketing strategies she employed, and how she creates unique guest experiences. The conversation also touches on the challenges she faced, the support from her family, and innovative ideas for utilizing resources in ranching. Lettie emphasizes the importance of creativity and resilience in building a successful business in the agriculture industry.
Chapters
00:00 Exploring Alternative Revenue Streams in Ranching
03:06 The Journey to Starting an Airbnb
05:59 Marketing Strategies for Success
09:09 Creating Unique Guest Experiences
12:04 Navigating Challenges and Building Resilience
15:00 Family Dynamics and Support in Business
17:52 Innovative Ideas for Utilizing Resources
20:58 Final Thoughts on Alternative Revenue
Resources
Follow Lettie on Instagram @lettienickell
Refresh & Revive Your Podcast https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/podcast-refresh
Monday Jan 20, 2025
Monday Jan 20, 2025
Monday Jan 20, 2025
What some see as risks, CJ and Calli Thorne view as opportunities to innovate and strengthen the beef industry. In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, we explore the Thornes’ inspiring journey from ranching to direct-to-consumer beef sales and owning Yellowstone River Beef, a local processing facility. Discover how their entrepreneurial spirit and strong faith helped them navigate challenges, adapt to market shifts, and build a business that serves their community. Whether you're a seasoned rancher or an agriculture enthusiast, their story offers insights on resilience, innovation, and the value of taking calculated risks.
Chapters
00:00 The Evolution of a Beef Business
09:01 Challenges in the Beef Industry
14:47 Navigating New Opportunities
20:50 Delegation and Team Dynamics
26:59 Local Focus and Future Prospects
Resources
https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events
Try PLUCK https://eatpluck.com/?ref=SHAYEWANNER
Monday Jan 13, 2025
Monday Jan 13, 2025
Monday Jan 13, 2025
Shaye Koester-Wanner and James Berry discuss the importance of organ meats in nutrition, the challenges in the supply chain, and the cultural shifts that have led to a decline in organ meat consumption. They explore the health benefits of organ meats, the birth of Pluck as a solution for incorporating these nutrient-dense foods into diets, and practical tips for cooking and enjoying organ meats. The discussion highlights the need for a change in consumer perspective and the potential for supporting local farms and ranchers.
Chapters
00:00 Revolutionizing the Supply Chain for Organ Meats
02:54 The Value of Organ Meats in Nutrition
06:11 James Berry's Culinary Journey and Mission
09:06 The Birth of Pluck: A Solution for Nutritional Needs
11:57 Understanding the Nutritional Benefits of Organ Meats
14:50 Cultural Shifts and the Decline of Organ Meat Consumption
18:03 Addressing Myths About Organ Meats
20:52 Practical Tips for Cooking and Incorporating Organ Meats
28:50 Incorporating Organ Meats into Your Diet
33:03 The Benefits of Organ Meats for Ranchers
39:11 Understanding Grass-Fed vs. Corn-Fed Beef
47:10 The Future of Ranching and Consumer Education
Resources:
Learn More About PLUCK: https://eatpluck.com/?ref=SHAYEWANNER
https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events/p/move-the-ranch-forward-2025
Monday Jan 06, 2025
Monday Jan 06, 2025
In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, Shaye Koester-Wanner discusses the significance of crossbreeding in the beef industry with Dr. Bob Weaber. They explore how crossbreeding can enhance the efficiency and profitability of ranch operations, the importance of discipline in managing crossbreeding systems, and the value added by crossbred cows and calves. The conversation also delves into the economic implications of crossbreeding, the challenges faced by ranchers, and the various systems that can be implemented based on the size of the operation. The episode emphasizes the need for strategic planning and management in crossbreeding practices to maximize benefits.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Crossbreeding in Beef Production
05:12 The Impact of Crossbreeding on the Beef Supply Chain
10:23 Economic Considerations and Profitability of Crossbreeding
19:22 Challenges and Mismanagement in Crossbreeding Systems
22:11 Value of Crossbred Cows and Calves
30:13 Popular Crossbreeding Systems for Different Ranch Sizes
42:02 Implementing AI and Technologies in Crossbreeding
44:53 Focus Areas for Successful Crossbreeding Management
Additional Resources:
Find Your Next Herd Sire: https://bit.ly/bullpen-ccc
Connect with Bob: bweaber@ksu.edu
Bob's Slides: https://bit.ly/CCC-resources
Goal-setting System for Ranchers: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events/p/move-the-ranch-forward-2025
Monday Dec 30, 2024
Monday Dec 30, 2024
Monday Dec 30, 2024
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
Monday Dec 23, 2024
Monday Dec 23, 2024
Monday Dec 23, 2024
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
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
Monday Dec 16, 2024
Monday Dec 16, 2024
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.
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
Monday Dec 09, 2024
Monday Dec 09, 2024
Monday Dec 09, 2024
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
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://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events