In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye discusses calf health during the calving season with Dr. Troy Dutton and Dr. Joseph Hochhalter, owners of Steele Veterinary Clinic. They delve into the importance of good nutrition, ensuring timely and adequate colostrum intake, and maintaining proper sanitation in calving barns to prevent diseases like scours and pneumonia. The conversation also covers differences in calving strategies based on seasonal weather conditions, emphasizing the need for preventive measures and good animal health practices year-round. This episode is filled with valuable insights for ranchers looking to improve calf health and overall herd productivity.  Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/    Links & Resources  Start your free trial or learn more about CattleMax here: https://bit.ly/4aG7K5q  Get a head start on your year with our Profit Foundations for Ranchers Course here: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/profit-foundations-for-ranchers   Learn more about the Ranch Channel here: https://bit.ly/ranchchannel  00:00 Introduction to the Podcast  00:17 Meet the Experts: Dr. Troy Dutton and Dr. Joseph Hochhalter  01:14 Importance of Calf Health During Calving  04:14 Challenges of Winter Calving  08:47 Spring Calving: Adjusting to Weather Changes  15:04 Preventative Measures for Calving Season  16:25 Year-Round Animal Health Strategies  18:16 The Critical Role of Colostrum  20:33 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways  23:24 Conclusion and Podcast Support 

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye discusses the importance and benefits of genomic testing for commercial heifers, a practice she uses on her ranch with her husband and father-in-law. Shaye explains the ease and process of taking tissue samples from the ear for DNA testing, the valuable data it provides, and how it helps in making informed decisions about heifer selection and bull selection, ultimately improving herd quality and productivity. She also shares personal insights into adapting to these advanced techniques on your own operation. Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts!     Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ Learn more about Profit Foundations for Ranchers here: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/profit-foundations-for-ranchers   00:00 Introduction to the Podcast  00:17 Personal Insights on Genomic Testing  05:23 The Process of Genomic Testing  07:58 Benefits and Challenges of Genomic Testing  16:39 Conclusion and Contact Information 

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye interviews Kane Wellnitz about effective strategies for employee retention in ranching and agriculture. Kane shares insights from his experiences as a rancher and ag business owner, discussing challenges and solutions for retaining employees. Key topics include fostering ownership among employees, the importance of communication, and offering flexibility. Kane also touches on the necessity of providing competitive salaries and exploring talent from related industries. He provides an overview of his family's ranch operations and his consulting business, Landbridge Partners, emphasizing ways to improve management and maintain a committed workforce.   Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/   Learn more about Profit Foundations for Ranchers here: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/profit-foundations-for-ranchers      00:00 Introduction to Casual Cattle Conversations 00:17 Guest Introduction: Kane Wellnitz 02:09 Kane's Ranching Background 04:37 Employee Retention Strategies on the Ranch 05:27 Consulting Business Insights 06:54 Lessons Learned in Hiring and Retention 09:23 Challenges and Solutions in Ranch Management 13:03 Finding and Retaining the Right Employees 27:07 Final Thoughts and Advice 30:54 Conclusion and Podcast Support

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye is joined by Dr. Blane Lowe to discuss vitamin A deficiencies in cattle herds. The conversation covers the importance of vitamin A for cattle health, symptoms of deficiency, and prevention strategies. Dr. Lowe explains how vitamin A impacts various organ systems, reproductive efficiency, and overall cattle productivity. The episode also delves into environmental factors affecting vitamin A uptake and practical supplementation methods, including a specialized product developed by Dr. Lowe. With expert insights, this episode is essential for ranchers aiming to maintain the health and productivity of their herds during the winter months. 00:00 Welcome to Casual Cattle Conversations   Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/   Learn more about Profit Foundations for Ranchers here: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/profit-foundations-for-ranchers   00:18 Introduction to Vitamin A Deficiencies 00:49 Meet Dr. Blane Lowe 02:24 The Importance of Vitamin A in Cattle 04:03 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin A Deficiency 05:34 Geographical and Environmental Factors 07:32 Supplementation Strategies 15:02 Innovative Solutions: OPT Aid 17:01 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In this episode of the 'Casual Cattle Conversations' podcast, Shaye interviews CPA Hannah Mann, who specializes in serving agricultural clients. They delve into practical tax and bookkeeping tips for ranchers, highlighting the importance of effective and marginal tax rates, and the potential benefits of income averaging using Schedule J. Hannah Mann shares her passion for the agricultural industry and her unique insights from both a professional and personal perspective. The discussion also covers common mistakes ranchers make with end-of-year bookwork and tips on utilizing software like Ambrook for efficient bookkeeping. Hannah emphasizes the importance of knowing your effective tax rate to make informed financial decisions and avoid unnecessary expenditures. Listeners will find valuable strategies to better manage their financials and leverage tax benefits specific to the agricultural industry.  Learn more about Ambrook: ambrook.com/casualcattle    Catch more conversation like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ 00:00 Welcome to Casual Cattle Conversations 00:18 Introducing Hannah Mann: Tax Tips for Ranchers 01:08 Hannah's Passion for Agriculture 02:43 Tax Strategies and Bookkeeping Tips 07:05 Common Mistakes in Ranch Bookkeeping 11:22 Effective Tax Rate vs. Marginal Tax Rate 21:59 Retirement Accounts for Farmers and Ranchers 25:58 Understanding Raised vs. Purchased Cattle 26:57 Importance of Accurate Bookkeeping 28:10 Tips for Organizing Bookwork 29:08 Benefits of Using Ambrook Software 31:46 Challenges with QuickBooks 42:19 Tax Strategies and Effective Tax Rates 45:19 Final Thoughts and Recommendations 

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye sits down with Tim Petry from North Dakota State University to discuss the intricacies of the current cattle markets. The conversation covers producer-submitted questions, providing insights on price trends, the impact of global markets, and the future outlook for the cattle industry. Tim sheds light on the importance of sticking to traditional marketing plans, the volatility in the futures market, and the factors influencing the high demand and low supply scenario. He also shares valuable resources for producers to stay updated. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion aimed at helping producers make informed decisions in a fluctuating market.  Get the resources mentioned in this episode here: https://bit.ly/CCC-resources  Learn more about Profit Foundations for Ranchers here: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/profit-foundations-for-ranchers  Order your flavor of Pluck here: https://eatpluck.com/?ref=SHAYEWANNER  00:42 Meet Tim Petry: Cattle Market Expert  03:38 Current State of the Cattle Market  10:54 Producer Questions: Beef Prices and Market Trends  15:53 Global Cattle Herds and Future Market Predictions  23:24 Strategies for Producers in a Volatile Market  30:11 Resources and Current Events  39:15 Conclusion and Listener Support     

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/

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

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/4lBtKRKFind more information and more episodes at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ 00:39 Meet Kelly Sanders: Passion for Cattle Nutrition02:53 Understanding Fetal Programming04:25 Impact of Fetal Programming on the Beef Industry15:53 Practical Steps for Ranchers27:48 Final Thoughts and Resources  

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

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/  

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

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      

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/

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 – Introduction1:20 – Why herd records matter for profitability2:20 – 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 investment9:39 – Factor 4: User access and team needs11:00 – Factor 5: Web-based, app-based, or both?12:04 – Factor 6: Ease of use for your crew14:32 – Bonus: Onboarding and training for success16:00 – Final recap and closing thoughts Resources:  Performance Beef: https://bit.ly/47PxY3W https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/

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

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner sits down with Katey Johnson, a first-generation rancher and beef advocate, to talk about addressing consumer concerns in today’s beef industry. From questions about grass-fed vs. grain-finished beef to myths about factory farms, Katey shares how she connects with consumers at farmers markets, online, and through direct-to-consumer beef sales. If you’ve ever wondered how to better engage with consumers or how to respond to tough questions about beef production, this conversation will give you practical insights and encouragement. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction with Shaye Wanner01:35 – Why Katey Johnson bet on the beef industry 04:21 – Becoming a first-generation rancher06:00 – Selling beef direct-to-consumer and shipping nationwide07:21 – Common consumer concerns about beef production09:22 – Explaining the beef lifecycle: cow-calf to feedyard 11:14 – Why Katey is “Team Beef” regardless of how it’s finished13:03 – Grass-finished vs. grain-finished: consumer perceptions15:24 – Shocking myths and misinformation consumers believe17:05 – Beef’s role in upcycling food byproducts18:30 – Addressing glyphosate and other health claims19:57 – Building consumer trust as a rancher21:27 – Advice for ranchers: engaging with consumers respectfully23:36 – What Katey would do differently in her first five years24:50 – Where to connect with Katey online Resources & Links: Follow Katey Johnson: @zerocattleranch @kateyjohnsoncreative Favorite Seasoning: EatPluck.com (use code ShayeWanner for 15% off) Free Ranching Community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FKWGvQKxh/

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, Shaye Wanner visits with Shane White of Ceres Tag and Justin Hossfeld of RangeView by Envu. Together, they explore how integrating these two technologies helps ranchers make data-driven decisions about grazing management, forage utilization, cattle performance, and theft prevention. From tracking real-time animal behavior to managing pastures with geospatial data, discover how technology can become your ranch’s “extra hired hand” while improving profitability and sustainability. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction with Shaye Wanner01:15 – Why Shane White & Justin Hossfeld bet on the beef industry03:30 – Overview of RangeView by Envu 05:15 – Introduction to Ceres Tag and its satellite-powered ear tags06:55 – Data dashboards and grazing management tools in RangeView 09:05 – Alerts, utilization tracking, and planning pasture moves 12:39 – Measuring ROI: feed costs, efficiency, and time savings 14:40 – How ranchers can start with RangeView 16:00 – Benefits of Ceres Tag: forage intake, animal tracking, and theft prevention 19:55 – Real-time notifications and peace of mind 24:00 – Overcoming intimidation with technology adoption25:30 – The power of integration: RangeView + Ceres Tag 30:30 – Individual animal data and management possibilities 32:40 – Future innovations for RangeView34:05 – What’s next for Ceres Tag and ranching technology 36:00 – Final thoughts: Why now is the time to invest in technology 37:50 – Closing remarks and resources Resources: Learn more about RangeView: https://bit.ly/3JL7BlI Explore Ceres Tag: https://bit.ly/45WlwfW Connect with Shaye Wanner: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ Hashtags: #Ranching #BeefIndustry #CattleManagement #ForageUtilization #LivestockTechnology #BeefCattle #RanchManagement #CeresTag #RangeView #CasualCattleConversations

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Wanner sits down with Jim Strickland, a sixth-generation Florida rancher managing multiple operations across the state. Together, they discuss how Vence’s virtual fencing technology is transforming ranch management—helping producers through hurricanes, improving wildlife habitats, protecting calves from predators, and creating new opportunities for conservation.

Join Shaye Wanner on the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast as she delves into the intricacies of improving pregnancy rates in cattle with expert Lacey Quail. Discover practical strategies and insights to enhance reproductive efficiency in your beef cow herd.   Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction by Shaye Wanner 01:15 - Meet Lacey Quail: Background and Expertise 03:45 - Understanding Conception vs. Pregnancy Rates 07:30 - Industry Standards and Expectations 10:00 - Troubleshooting Low Pregnancy Rates 15:20 - Importance of Herd Records 18:45 - Missed Opportunities in Reproductive Management 22:00 - Observing Breeding Behavior 25:00 - Final Thoughts and Resources   Hashtags: #CattleRanching #ReproductiveEfficiency #LivestockManagement   Resources: SenseHub Vence: https://bit.ly/4kfWrCG Rising Ranchers Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/19PZX3xByi/ Don't forget to leave a rating or review and share this episode with fellow ranchers who might find it valuable. Happy ranching!