Casual Cattle Conversations

Today on the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye sits down with Wyoming rancher and CattleMax team member Jacqueline Lewis to talk about why herd records matter, especially for family and multi-generational ranches. Jacqueline explains how simple, goal-driven recordkeeping helps ranchers make better decisions, improve herd performance, and support long-term ranch success. She also shares practical advice for getting started, overcoming common challenges like time and technology concerns, and choosing a system that works, whether that’s paper, spreadsheets, or software. Listeners will walk away with simple steps to begin organizing herd records and using data to strengthen their operation. Learn more about CattleMax here: https://bit.ly/4aG7K5q  Links & Resources Learn more about Red Angus here: https://bit.ly/4iaU6bb  Learn more about At the Yards here: https://bit.ly/400T7mF  Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/. 00:24 Meet Jacqueline Lewis 01:43 Goals Drive Data 03:18 Generational Ranch Benefits 05:19 What Organized Looks Like 07:11 Common Recordkeeping Challenges 10:48 Simple Starting Steps 12:23 Choosing Your Method 15:02 Team Approach on Family Ranches 15:54 Switching Platforms Without Overwhelm 19:19 Beyond Cattle Inventory 20:21 Key Takeaways and Next Steps 21:41 CattleMax Resources and Wrap-Up

In this solo episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations Podcast, Shaye checks in a little over two months into 2026 and shares a simple ranch audit process to avoid setting profit goals blindly and to create benchmarks for improvement. She explains that audits help ranchers understand where they stand before making changes. The three-step audit includes: (1) defining what success means for your ranch (unique to each operation), (2) ranking confidence from 1–10 in key areas such as finances/bookkeeping, reproduction, genetics, nutrition, grazing/resource management, and health, and (3) assigning measurable metrics to each area (e.g., break-even, pregnancy rate, calving interval, death loss, treatment costs, costs vs returns). She encourages prioritizing improvements that align with the ranch’s definition of success and references her course Profit Foundations for Ranchers for a deeper process.   Links & Resources Learn more about Performance Livestock Analytics here: https://bit.ly/47PxY3W  Learn more about Red Angus here: https://bit.ly/4iaU6bb  Learn more about At the Yards here: https://bit.ly/400T7mF  Learn more about CattleMax here: https://bit.ly/4aG7K5q  Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/   00:00 2026 Ranch Check In 00:20 Podcast Welcome Back 01:38 Why Ranch Audits Matter 02:12 Profit Mistakes To Avoid 03:51 Three Step Audit Plan 04:38 Define Ranch Success 06:36 Rank Confidence Areas 08:24 Add Metrics Benchmarks 09:36 Example Benchmarks 12:05 Prioritize Improvements 12:50 Course And Final Wrap

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations, Shaye interviews Tom and Terryn Drieling about ranch leadership on their Nebraska Sandhills ranch, where Tom has served as a ranch manager for about 10 years within a corporate ranch structure. They discuss how leadership sets workplace tone and impacts culture, profitability, efficiency, safety, and retention, emphasizing transparency, clear communication, attitude, and providing employees tools, autonomy, and support. Tom shares his shift from a default of anger toward more unbiased tone and open forums for crew input, along with accountability and continuing education requirements. Terryn highlights self-awareness, feedback, repair after poor interactions, and using stockmanship principles to assess energy and responses. They advise employees seeking better leadership to pursue education, ask curious questions, align around goals, and lead from any position, and they recommend resources such as universities/extension programs, podcasts, and paid options like Ranching for Profit.  Links & Resources Learn more about Red Angus here: https://redangus.org/ Learn more about At the Yards here: https://attheyards.com/  Learn more about CattleMax here: https://bit.ly/4aG7K5q 01:13 Meet Tom and Terryn Drieling 01:34 Why Leadership Matters 04:10 Tom’s Ranch Manager Role 05:42 Culture Tone and Transparency 10:57 Accountability and Team Buy In 13:48 Traits of Great Leaders 15:21 Self Audit and Self Awareness 19:07 Leading Without the Title 24:34 Training and Learning Resources 29:05 Key Takeaways and Wrap Up 

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversation, Shaye talks with Lydia, a first-generation farmer in southwestern Manitoba, about how non-family farm transitions can work. Lydia and her spouse started on leased land, built a direct-to-consumer livestock business, and later formed a structured transition partnership with a neighboring producer. They operate separate profitable businesses while collaborating on land, feeding, and asset purchases through clear written agreements and vendor financing. She shares that successful non-family transitions come down to trust, communication, solid business planning, and financial transparency. Lydia encourages new and aspiring farmers to live in the communities where they want to farm, build relationships, seek mentors, and work with advisors open to creative transition models. She also outlines red flags, including avoiding written agreements, weak financial management, and unclear profitability. Her message: with preparation, the right partners, and clear structure, non-family transitions are not only possible—they can be sustainable. Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/  Learn more about CattleTags here: https://bit.ly/3Lf8yE3        

On today’s episode of the Casual Cattle Conversation, Shaye welcomes Brittany Kelsey, a Missouri-raised cattle industry professional, wife, and mom who leads a remote team at CattleTags.com. They discuss why a solid animal identification system is the foundation for effective herd management, accurate record keeping, and improved profitability. Brittany covers how to choose the right tag by animal and purpose (large/calf tags vs. maxi and super maxi for mature cattle), color-coding strategies, and the advantages of Allflex laser-engraved, inked tags for lifelong readability versus marker-written tags that fade. They also discuss layout options (phone number, brand, birth date, sire info), one-piece vs. two-piece tag preferences and retention, and how to build practical management code/numbering systems that are easy to interpret and avoid duplicates—especially when retaining heifers. The conversation explores EID benefits including reducing human error, USDA compliance considerations in some states and markets, common misconceptions about what EIDs store, and matched EID/visual tag sets and TSU DNA sampling workflows. Brittany explains what to consider when purchasing EID readers, including desired data capture features, barcode scanning for DNA samples, ISO low-frequency compatibility, and avoiding proprietary systems. The episode highlights cattletags.com’s producer support, including help designing systems, creating spreadsheets for random numbers and EID imports into software like CattleMax, and proactive order checks, and closes with a takeaway that animal ID is about building a management foundation beyond tags or compliance.  Learn more about CattleTags here: https://bit.ly/3Lf8yE3  Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/  00:00 Welcome to Casual Cattle Conversations + Today’s Guest Brittany Kelsey  01:33 Why Animal ID Systems Matter: Records, Management & Profitability  03:09 Choosing the Right Ear Tag: Size, Color & Readability in the Field  04:45 Laser Engraved vs Marker Tags + Custom Layout Options  06:53 One-Piece vs Two-Piece Tags: What Retains Best?  08:21 Building a Numbering/Management Code System (and Avoiding Duplicates)  12:33 Maxi Tags for Replacement Heifers: Longevity & Labor Savings  14:22 EID Tags 101: Benefits, Compliance & Common Misconceptions  16:34 Matched Sets + DNA/TSU Sampling: Keeping IDs Connected  17:55 Picking an EID Reader: Features, Compatibility & ISO Standards  20:25 Why Producers Choose CattleTags.com: Ranchers Helping Ranchers  22:20 Key Takeaway + Wrap-Up, Links, and How to Support the Podcast   

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye speaks with Dr. Emma Briggs about the significance of calf uniformity in the beef industry. Dr. Briggs, a faculty supervisor at Kansas State University Ag Research Center, dives deep into strategies for achieving uniform calf crops, discussing elements like calving windows, genetic selection, reproductive strategies, and management practices. The episode provides practical insights into how producers can enhance calf uniformity to improve overall herd management and productivity.   Links & Resources Learn more about CattleTags here: https://www.cattletags.com/   Sign up for the Profit Foundations for Ranchers here: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/profit-foundations-for-ranchers   Learn more about the Ranch Channel here: https://bit.ly/ranchchannel   Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/    00:00 Introduction to Casual Cattle Conversations 00:40 Guest Introduction: Dr. Emma Briggs 02:25 Understanding Calf Uniformity 07:52 Genetic Selection for Uniformity 10:58 Management Strategies for Uniform Calf Crops 12:52 Final Thoughts and Resources

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye talks with Dr. Josh Maples about price risk management strategies for cattle producers. Dr. Maples discusses the importance of understanding risk tolerance and the various tools available to manage price risk, such as futures and options, and livestock risk protection (LRP). The conversation emphasizes the need for cattle producers to plan proactively rather than reactively. Topics include the financial and mental aspects of risk management, the role of diversification, and common mistakes producers make. Dr. Maples also shares useful resources for further information.   Links & Resources   Learn more about Ranching.com at https://bit.ly/3LMAizU   Sign up for the Profit Foundations for Ranchers here: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/profit-foundations-for-ranchers   Learn more about the Ranch Channel here: https://bit.ly/ranchchannel   Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/   00:44 Meet Dr. Josh Maples 02:26 Importance of Risk Management 04:58 Financial Considerations for Risk Management 07:50 Price Risk Management Tools 15:46 Common Mistakes and Best Practices 18:47 Final Thoughts and Resources

In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye interviews Shane White from Ceres Tag. They discuss new features aimed at maximizing cow performance, focusing on fertility, estrous alerts, and calving alerts. Shane highlights how Ceres Tag's technology automates cow behavior tracking via satellite, providing valuable data for improving reproductive efficiency and profitability. They also cover how the new subscription model makes this technology more accessible to ranchers. The episode emphasizes the importance of data-driven decisions to enhance the future of ranching.  Learn more about Ceres Tag here: https://bit.ly/45WlwfW Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ 00:15 Guest Introduction: Shane White from Ceres Tag  01:10 The Importance of Ag Technology  02:13 Overview of Ceres Tag's Offerings  03:48 Maximizing Cow Efficiency with Data  05:37 New Features: Fertility and Reproductive Capabilities  08:35 Natural Service and Mounting Scores  10:33 Synchronization and AI in Cattle  14:27 Calving Alerts and Behavior Metrics  18:51 Business Model and Cost Structure  22:43 Impact on the American Beef Industry  33:52 Final Thoughts and Contact Information 

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 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 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/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  

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 – 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/