CattleUSA Daily

Lauren sits down with John Campbell to talk through what we’re seeing in the cattle market right now after another strong week of sales across the region. John shares updates from the sale barns, explains why demand for stocker and feeder cattle is holding strong despite volatility in the futures market, and answers questions he’s been hearing from producers about where the market may be headed. The conversation also dives into the shutdown of the JBS packing plant in Greeley, Colorado, what led up to the labor dispute, and what the closure could mean for packer capacity and the broader cattle industry.LinksNominate or request to be a guest - forms.gle/fRkvzRenh7mqkDXV7 CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Takeaways• Strong demand helped keep cash cattle prices steady despite volatility in the futures market• Winter Livestock’s anniversary sale in La Junta saw strong prices across calves, stockers, and feeder cattle• Supply and demand dynamics are very different from last fall, helping support stronger prices this spring• Buyers are still actively looking for cattle to place on grass as grazing season approaches• The JBS packing plant in Greeley, Colorado shut down after a labor dispute with union workers• The plant processes roughly 30,000 head of cattle per week• Some of that capacity may be absorbed by other packing plants currently running slower rail speeds• Contract cattle may need to be shipped to other plants, which could affect freight costs and carcass yield• The situation highlights ongoing concerns about consolidation and market power among major packing companiesChapters00:00 Introduction and episode overview01:03 John Campbell joins the podcast01:30 La Junta market recap and anniversary sale results04:20 Regional cattle market updates09:00 Why demand stayed strong despite futures volatility11:30 How supply and demand dynamics differ from last fall14:30 Breaking down the JBS Greeley plant shutdown18:00 What the closure could mean for producers and packers22:00 Weather outlook and spring grazing conditionscattle market update, feeder cattle prices, stocker cattle market, cattle auction report, Winter Livestock La Junta sale, cattle industry news, JBS Greeley plant shutdown, cattle packing plant capacity, beef industry analysis, cattle supply and demand, livestock market update, ranching market outlook, CattleUSA Daily Podcast

This week, Lauren sits down with Derek Thompson to talk about the story behind NextGen Cattle and how the operation has grown from a feedyard purchase in 2017 into a multi-breed seedstock and cattle feeding business built around the commercial cattle producer. Derek shares how his background in financial services eventually led him back to the cattle business, why NextGen built its model around the full beef supply chain, and how their genetics, buyback program, and producer partnerships are all designed to help commercial cattlemen create a better end product.LinksNextGen Website - https://www.nextgencattle.com/April Bull Sale - https://www.nextgencattle.com/spring-classic/Nominate or request to be a guest - forms.gle/fRkvzRenh7mqkDXV7 CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways• NextGen Cattle was formed in 2017 by Derek, his brother Damon, and cousin Brad• The business began with a southwest Kansas feedyard and has since expanded significantly• NextGen now operates in Angus, Charolais, and Beefmaster genetics with a strong focus on the commercial cattle producer• Their program is built around matching cattle to environment, not forcing one type of cow into every region• Derek believes genetics matter all the way through the feeding and carcass phase• NextGen sells mostly aged bulls because they believe mature, developed bulls hold up better in real-world commercial use• Their buyback program allows producers to get real feedback on how cattle perform in the yard and on the rail• Derek sees long-term opportunity for producers who can consistently raise high-quality cattle• NextGen’s special feeder calf sale and April bull sale are both centered around building community and supporting producersChapters00:00 Derek’s background and how NextGen started03:30 Why NextGen expanded into seedstock08:30 How genetics, development, and environment all connect13:00 The buyback program and why data matters18:30 Derek’s outlook on the cattle industry22:00 Upcoming feeder calf sale and April bull saleNextGen Cattle, Derek Thompson, commercial cattle producer, seedstock cattle operation, Kansas feedyard, Angus bulls, Charolais bulls, Beefmaster bulls, aged bulls for sale, feeder calf buyback program, cattle genetics data, commercial cow herd improvement, feeder calf sale Salina Kansas, Winter Livestock sale, NextGen bull sale

This week, Lauren is joined by Samantha Cozza-Wright and first-time guest Andrea VanHorn to break down a volatile week in the cattle market. The conversation covers softer cash cattle trade, stronger yearling demand, the market impact of the potential JBS Greeley disruption, growing national attention on beef prices, and why risk management tools matter in a market that continues to react quickly to headlines. The episode also touches on grain market stability, high input costs, and the bigger picture facing both cattle and crop producers as spring gets underway.LinksNominate or request to be a guest - forms.gle/fRkvzRenh7mqkDXV7 CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways• Cash cattle traded mostly $238 to $242 last week, about $3 to $6 lower than the previous week• Some isolated trade was reported as low as $233, but most of the market centered around the high $230s to low $240s• Feeder cattle stayed relatively resilient, especially yearlings, even as futures softened• Some sale barns still reported strong receipts, with larger consignments than many expected heading into spring• Markets continue to react quickly to headlines, from plant disruptions to global conflict• Samantha sees the Greeley JBS strike headlines as a bigger market story than an actual long-term slaughter capacity issue• Packers are still using lower kill numbers and tighter slaughter schedules to improve margins• Boxed beef values remain historically strong for this time of year• Tight domestic cattle supplies, beef demand, and political attention on food prices are all drawing more national focus to the cattle industry• Andrea notes that some producers are taking advantage of short-term dips to buy feeders, showing confidence in longer-term cattle strength• Grain markets remain relatively stable, but high fertilizer and other input costs are still pressuring producers• The episode reinforces that risk management tools like LRP should be viewed as protection, not a bet against the market• The goal of coverage is not to hope for a wreck, but to survive one if it happensChapters00:00 Welcome + storms, moisture, and spring conditions01:20 Market recap with Samantha04:45 Andrea’s take on current cattle market behavior06:00 Volatility, headlines, and the Greeley plant discussion11:20 Why the packer narrative and actual supply may not match13:10 Grain market update with Andrea15:50 Bigger-picture cattle market pressures and consumer beef demand20:20 Why risk management still matters in this kind of market23:15 Closing thoughts and where to get help with coveragecattle market update, cash cattle prices, feeder cattle market, JBS Greeley strike, boxed beef values, beef demand 2026, cattle market volatility, LRP coverage, livestock risk protection, cattle risk management, grain market update, fertilizer costs agriculture, packer margins, slaughter capacity cattle, beef price headlines

In this episode, Lauren and Samantha break down Livestock Risk Protection in practical terms. They move beyond the surface-level explanation and walk through what LRP quotes actually look like, how to read them, how premiums are calculated, how coverage levels work, and what a real claim scenario looks like from start to finish. If LRP has ever felt confusing or intimidating, this episode simplifies it and shows how producers can use it to protect margin without sacrificing upside opportunity.LinksCattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways• LRP stands for Livestock Risk Protection and functions like a government-subsidized put option• It protects against downside market risk while preserving upside potential• Premium is the cost of coverage, indemnity is the payment received in a loss situation• LRP premiums are typically 25–30% cheaper than traditional put options• No margin calls, no brokerage fees, and no upfront premium payment• Premium is due at coverage end date with a 60-day grace period• Quotes are released daily by USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA)• Quotes are only available to book until futures reopen the next morning• Coverage levels range from 85% to 100%, but higher levels (98–100%) are typically recommended• Everything is priced per hundredweight, not per head• Lightweight and heavyweight cattle are insured at percentages of baseline yearling steer quotes• Fed cattle are structured separately from feeder cattle• Market volatility, cattle value, and coverage length all influence premium cost• If the CME index settles below your coverage price, you receive an indemnity• Example scenario shows how $86/head premium can result in $169/head net paymentChapters00:00 Why we’re revisiting LRP01:00 Insurance term refresher: indemnity, claim, premium03:00 What LRP actually is and how it compares to puts05:30 How quotes work and when they’re available07:00 Understanding coverage levels and premium columns10:00 Converting per hundredweight to per head12:00 Percentages for lightweight, heavyweight, heifers, and unborns14:30 Step-by-step claim example17:00 Net indemnity breakdown per head19:00 Why you don’t have to understand everything to use it20:30 How to get updated quotes for your operationLivestock Risk Protection, LRP insurance explained, cattle price protection, feeder cattle insurance, LRP quotes breakdown, CME feeder cattle index, cattle risk management tools, livestock indemnity example, government subsidized put option, RMA livestock insurance, cattle hedging alternative, LRP premium calculation, protecting cattle margins, risk management for cow calf producers, livestock market volatility protection

Lauren and Gary break down the weirdest part of this winter: it basically never happened in key areas. With snow totals far behind normal in Colorado and drought already expanding across Nebraska, Colorado, and Wyoming, the conversation gets real about what March tells us about drought trajectory, fire risk, severe weather timing, and the major heat wave expected around early August. Gary explains how the LRC cycle works, why this pattern has been repeating since October, and what producers can do now to plan instead of react. Also, they take a quick detour to roast daylight saving time, because obviously.LinksWeather 20/20 Dashboard Discount⁠ - https://www.weather2020.com/partner/cattle-usaSubstack - https://weather2020.substack.com/The Global Predictor App ⁠- ⁠https://www.weather2020.com/global-predictor-mobile-appYoutube⁠ -https://www.youtube.com/@Weather2020Follow Gary on X ⁠- https://x.com/glezak CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways• Colorado snow totals are drastically below normal, raising drought and fire risk• The current March weather setup mirrors the pattern established back in October• Drought is expanding right now, especially over Nebraska, Colorado, and Wyoming• Kansas and Iowa are not yet in the expansion zone, but need to be watched closely• A “wet week” can still mean only average moisture, which may not be enough to reverse drought• LRC-based forecasting allows producers to plan week-by-week for wet vs. dry stretches• Severe weather is expected in scheduled windows tied to the recurring pattern• Freeze/frost risk remains on the radar, especially around April 5–10• There’s a smaller chance of a late frost/freeze late April into early May• Major heat wave timing remains on track for early August (first week)• Heat wave risk becomes serious when it lasts more than 3–5 days• Proactive planning beats reactive scrambling: hay, grazing plans, shipping options, and risk prep• Daylight saving time is still stupid and makes data timing worseChapters00:00 Winter that didn’t winter + travel snow story02:10 Why low snowpack matters for drought and fire season03:40 The LRC pattern: why March looks like October05:10 Where drought is expanding right now06:45 Proactive planning for cattle country08:10 Severe weather timing and why it repeats12:40 Last freeze/frost window: April 5–1014:30 Late frost possibility late April/early May15:10 Major heat wave timing: early August16:40 Daylight saving time rant20:00 Wrap-up + Weather 2020 resourcesWeather 2020 forecast, LRC weather pattern, drought expansion 2026, Colorado low snowpack, Nebraska drought risk, Wyoming drought outlook, Kansas spring weather, last frost date Kansas City, April freeze risk, severe weather forecast windows, summer heat wave forecast, cattle heat stress risk, fire season Rocky Mountains, proactive ranch weather planning, Weather Intelligence Report, 1-2-2-2 Vision Dashboard

This week, Lauren and John Campbell cover two big things: strong demand in the sale barn despite recent futures turmoil, and a major USDA shift aimed at what they’re calling “ag lawfare.” John breaks down a new “Farmer and Rancher Freedom Framework” tied to USDA Secretary Rollins, focused on protecting producers, pushing back on regulatory overreach, and creating a formal channel for ranchers to report government-driven land and business pressure. If you’ve ever felt like agencies were running the show instead of common sense, this episode is for you.LinksNominate or request to be a guest - forms.gle/fRkvzRenh7mqkDXV7 CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways• The cattle market saw sharp selloffs late last week, but rebounded with strong gains early this week• Replacement heifer demand remains extremely strong, signaling optimism and herd-building interest• Lightweight grazing cattle and grass-ready calves are holding steady across the region• John previews La Junta’s 86th Anniversary Sale and what buyers can expect (quality cattle under 700 lbs and a big turnout)• USDA is building a “Farmer and Rancher Freedom Framework” aimed at ending “ag lawfare” and regulatory overreach• The framework includes four pillars: protect producers, preserve land and liberty, purge burdensome regulations, and partner with ag to fight lawfare• USDA is positioning farming/ranching and private property as a national security priority• A new USDA reporting channel is highlighted for producers dealing with government overreach: USDA.gov/lawfare• The USDA plan includes near-term agency enforcement reviews and longer-term efforts targeting consolidation and concentrated protein markets• Lauren and John emphasize that “small” overreach issues still matter and should be reported to build legitimacy and momentum• The episode closes with cautious optimism: fundamentals remain strong even with packer leverage swings and volatilityChapters00:00 Welcome + moisture update01:00 Markets recap: late-week turmoil, early-week rebound01:45 La Junta sale barn recap: steady calves, hot replacement heifers03:45 La Junta 86th Anniversary Sale preview05:00 Regional market snapshot: Dodge City, Salina, Riverton, Marana08:30 What’s going on in DC: USDA “Freedom Framework” overview10:00 The four pillars + what “lawfare” means for producers11:30 USDA.gov/lawfare: reporting channel + what it’s intended to do13:00 Timeline and priorities: enforcement reviews, antitrust focus, consolidation concerns15:30 Why reporting matters even if your situation feels “small”23:00 Closing thoughts: volatility, packer leverage, and market resilienceCattle market volatility, replacement heifer demand, La Junta livestock auction, feeder cattle prices 2026, grass cattle demand, producer freedom framework, USDA lawfare, regulatory overreach agriculture, private property rights ranching, ag antitrust enforcement, concentrated protein markets, packer consolidation, USDA producer reporting, government overreach ranchers, cattle industry policy changes

This week, Lauren, Dan, and Samantha break down a volatile cattle market that saw cash fats fold late in the week, packers regain leverage, and futures react sharply to outside headlines. With slaughter brushing historic lows, boxed beef holding stronger than seasonal norms, and global tensions adding uncertainty, the crew unpacks what’s driving the softness, what’s still supportive, and how risk management becomes critical as we head into spring and grilling season.LinksCattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways• Cash fats dropped sharply late last week, losing roughly $10 by Friday• Packers bought fewer cattle week over week and reduced slaughter again• Slaughter levels are brushing historic lows• Packers regained leverage after writing strong forward contracts earlier• Futures remain volatile and reactive to headlines• Feeder cattle held relatively strong at the sale barn despite board weakness• Smaller calves continue to see grass-season demand support• Boxed beef remains stronger than typical for this time of year• Lent season has not pressured beef demand as much as expected• Retail meat sales hit record highs last year• 98% of U.S. households purchase meat• Pork pricing remains supportive to beef• Chicken continues to be stiff competition at retail• War headlines and stock market weakness add outside pressure• Grain markets rallied on oil headlines, then softened• Risk management tools like LRP and puts remain critical in uncertain marketsChapters00:00 Calving season update and weather check02:00 Cash fat collapse and packer leverage05:20 Slaughter cuts and historic lows07:30 Feeder market resilience and grass demand10:00 Spring outlook and grilling season expectations12:00 Beef demand data and retail trends14:00 Stock market weakness and global tension16:00 Grain markets and oil volatility18:00 Risk management strategies moving forwardcattle market volatility 2026, cash cattle drop, packer leverage cattle market, historic low slaughter, boxed beef cutout, feeder cattle sale barn prices, grilling season beef demand, meat retail sales record, LRP cattle insurance, risk management cattle producers, stock market cattle correlation, Middle East conflict commodity markets, grain market rally oil prices, livestock futures analysis

In this episode, Lauren tackles the constraint most ranchers don’t want to admit: labor. Not rain. Not markets. Not feed costs. People. From calving windows to pasture rotation, expansion plans to burnout, labor quietly dictates what an operation can sustainably handle. Lauren breaks down how labor drag hides in daily inefficiencies, why expansion without redesign creates stress instead of profit, and how to restructure your ranch around human capacity instead of exhaustion.LinksNominate or request to be a guest - forms.gle/fRkvzRenh7mqkDXV7 CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways• Labor is often the true limiting factor on ranch growth• Many operations are designed around “unlimited” labor that doesn’t exist• A limiting factor caps output regardless of land, cattle, or equipment• Working harder does not equal scaling sustainably• Chronic 80-hour weeks are not a system, they are a sacrifice• Small daily inefficiencies compound into weeks of lost productivity annually• Labor drag hides in longer feeding times, inefficient facilities, and stretched calving seasons• Skipped pasture rotations reduce forage utilization• Labor inefficiency shows up as higher feed cost per cow and lower reproduction• The better question is not “How many cows can we run?” but “How many can we manage well?”• Expansion magnifies weak labor systems• Labor includes physical, managerial, and decision work• Overloading one person across all categories creates vulnerability• Tightening calving windows can dramatically reduce labor pressure• Facility redesign can reduce handling time and stress• Water infrastructure improvements reduce daily labor hours• Sometimes the most profitable move is simplification, not expansion• Sustainable ranches respect forage capacity, financial capacity, and human capacityChapters00:00 Labor is the real constraint01:30 What a limiting factor actually means02:30 The myth of “we’ll just work harder”03:00 How labor drag compounds annually04:00 Why expansion exposes weak systems05:00 The three types of labor on a ranch06:00 Redesigning instead of adding labor07:00 Human capacity as a strategic limit08:00 Designing systems that endureagriculture labor shortage, ranch labor efficiency, limiting factor ranching, ranch burnout, calving window management, pasture rotation labor, ranch expansion strategy, human capacity agriculture, ranch systems design, cattle operation efficiency, reducing labor drag, ranch management structure, sustainable ranch growth, livestock operation management

In this episode, Lauren delivers a direct but necessary message: moving home to the ranch does not automatically create income. Most operations are built to support one household, not two. Before anyone loads a trailer and heads back, the financial math must be clear. This episode breaks down how to evaluate ranch financials honestly, the three sustainable ways to move home without creating strain, and why clarity around roles and ownership prevents long-term resentment. Legacy matters. But margin matters more.LinksNominate or request to be a guest - forms.gle/fRkvzRenh7mqkDXV7 CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways• Most ranches are structured to support one owner draw, not multiple salaries• Gross revenue does not equal available income• Net income, debt service, and owner draw must be clearly understood before making a move• A leftover cushion is volatility protection, not a second paycheck• Replacing labor does not automatically create new margin• Revenue must increase or expenses must decrease in measurable ways• Off-ranch income is often the most stable transition strategy• Building a defined enterprise requires its own P&L• A business unit must track revenue, expenses, and net profit• Efficiency improvements must be measurable and documented• Undefined roles create conflict and resentment• Hard succession conversations must happen early• Waiting is not failure. It is strategic preparation• Moving home prepared strengthens legacy. Moving home blindly strains itChapters00:00 The hard truth about moving home01:30 The financial questions you must answer first03:00 Why hard work alone doesn’t create margin04:00 The three sustainable ways to move home04:15 Bringing off-ranch income05:00 Building a defined enterprise05:50 Increasing efficiency in measurable ways06:20 Identity shifts and role clarity07:00 When the answer is “not yet”07:50 Strengthening legacy with preparationmoving home to the ranch, ranch succession planning, family ranch transition, building income on a ranch, ranch financial planning, owner draw ranching, cost per cow, ranch break even analysis, off ranch income agriculture, direct to consumer beef business, ranch enterprise budgeting, generational transfer ranch, ranch profitability strategy, sustaining family ranch legacy

After years of greenhouse gas regulation tied to diesel engines and DEF systems, the EPA has reversed course. In this episode, Lauren and Emma break down the original 2009 endangerment finding under the Clean Air Act, how it led to diesel emission requirements, and what the 2025 reconsideration means for agriculture, trucking, and rural industries. They also tackle the broader conversation around cattle, carbon, and why producers must stay engaged in policy decisions that directly affect their operations.LinksNominate or request to be a guest - forms.gle/fRkvzRenh7mqkDXV7 CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways• In 2009, greenhouse gases were classified as pollutants under the Clean Air Act• That ruling gave the EPA authority to regulate vehicle emissions, including diesel engines• DEF systems became required as part of emissions compliance• These regulations increased equipment and transportation costs for agriculture• The EPA has now reconsidered and reversed the 2009 endangerment finding for vehicles• Moving forward, new diesel vehicles will not be subject to the same greenhouse gas requirements• Agriculture is often inaccurately blamed for a disproportionate share of emissions• Transportation accounts for a significantly larger percentage of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions than cattle• Cattle play a role in the natural carbon cycle and soil health• Advocacy and policy engagement matter at the local, state, and federal level• Producers must stay informed about regulatory decisions that impact their operationsChapters00:00 Why emissions are back in the headlines01:30 The 2009 Clean Air Act endangerment finding04:30 DEF systems and diesel engine regulation07:00 Economic impact on agriculture and trucking09:30 The 2025 EPA reconsideration and reversal12:00 Carbon cycle, cattle, and emissions data15:00 Why producer advocacy matters17:30 What this means moving forwardEPA emissions rule reversal, Clean Air Act 2009, greenhouse gas endangerment finding, diesel DEF system agriculture, vehicle emissions regulation 2025, agriculture greenhouse gas emissions, cattle carbon cycle, EPA diesel rollback, rural industry regulation, agricultural policy advocacy

This week, Lauren and John cover two things hitting rural America at the same time: wildfire recovery efforts that are still unfolding, and a major EPA shift that could change the regulatory landscape for agriculture and diesel-dependent industries. John shares why continued fire relief matters long after the headlines fade, then breaks down the reported rollback of the 2009 “endangerment finding” tied to greenhouse gases, what that has meant for diesel emissions systems like DEF, and why he believes this could be a turning point. The episode ends with a personal, no-nonsense EPA story that shows exactly how regulatory pressure can spiral into something absurd and expensive fast.LinksKansasKLA Office - (785) 273-5115Donate Online - https://www.kla.org/affiliates/kansas-livestock-foundation/disaster-relief-donations Wildfire Relief Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/groups/2017wildfirereliefThe Rancher Navy Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/182zrvruJZ/OklahomaOCF Office - 405-435-4391OCF Fire Relief Fund - https://www.okcattlemen.org/If you would like to donate to this relief effort, you can do so by mail or online. OCF is a 501c(3) charitable arm of the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association (OCA). Make checks payable toOklahoma Cattlemen’s Foundation and put “Fire Relief” in the memo line and send to P.O. Box82395, Oklahoma City, OK 73148.Donation Centers - https://extension.okstate.edu/programs/emergency-and-disaster-preparedness/wildfire/donation-centers-for-wildfire-relief.html Nominate or request to be a guest - forms.gle/fRkvzRenh7mqkDXV7 CattleUSA Insurance - ⁠https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠⁠CattleUSA Website - ⁠https://www.cattleusa.com/⁠Facebook - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamedia⁠Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/⁠Subscribe to our newsletter - ⁠https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premium⁠CattleUSA Media - ⁠https://www.cattleusamedia.com/⁠Lauren’s Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/⁠Lauren’s Youtube - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - ⁠https://www.thenextgenag.com/⁠Key Takeaways• Fire relief is not over and the biggest needs often come after containment• Donations of hay, feed, fencing supplies, trucking, fuel, and labor are still critical• Community support during disasters creates a long-lasting ripple effect in rural America• John says the reported EPA shift targets the 2009 “endangerment finding” that classified greenhouse gases as a public health threat• The 2009 finding became a foundation for expanded emissions regulation tied to CO2 and methane• Diesel emissions systems like DEF became a real cost and headache for producers and truckers• John expects major opposition and legal challenges from states like California• The story highlights how compliance burdens can escalate even when intent and history are clean• John’s message: rural America needs practical oversight, not bureaucracy that crushes commerceChapters00:00 Weather, drought talk, and Lauren’s mountain snow story03:35 Market recap from La Junta and regional barns11:55 Fire relief update and why help is still needed17:50 EPA shift overview and why it matters to ag24:20 John’s burn pit EPA story and the compliance spiral40:05 Lauren’s point: everyone has a regulation story41:45 Weed spraying, risk-benefit, and feeding a nation42:50 Wrap-up and fire relief reminderEPA endangerment finding, 2009 Clean Air Act, greenhouse gas regulation, DEF diesel emissions, rural regulation burdens, agriculture EPA compliance, wildfire relief ranchers, fencing supplies donation, hay hauling wildfire, Kansas Oklahoma fire recovery, ranch disaster support, cattle producer advocacy, bureaucratic overregulation, diesel cost agriculture, environmental regulation agriculture

This week, Lauren, Dan, and Samantha break down a cattle market that feels strong on paper but refuses to break out. The CME Feeder Cattle Index pushed to record highs near 377, yet futures remain well behind cash. With a historically wide feeder-to-fat spread, packers searching for leverage, softer exports, heavier carcass weights, and headline-driven volatility, the market continues to trade sideways. The crew unpacks what is driving the hesitation, what the Cattle on Feed report really showed, and what to watch as we move deeper into Lent and toward spring demand.LinksNominate or request to be a guest - forms.gle/fRkvzRenh7mqkDXV7 CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways• The CME Feeder Cattle Index hit record highs near 377• March feeder futures remain roughly $11 under the index• The feeder-to-fat cattle spread is near historically extreme levels• Cash trade ranged from $245 to $249 after early $240 sales• Packers gained leverage after futures weakened late in the week• Open interest rising in a softer market signals producer hedging• Seasonal February basis patterns often narrow into March• Lent season and early Easter may support beef demand• Choice cutout jumped over $8, widening the Choice/Select spread• Potential plant strike headlines are contributing to volatility• Exports remain sluggish due to high U.S. protein pricing• The U.S. dollar remains weak, but beef remains expensive globally• Placements were down 5 percent year over year• Marketings were down 13 percent, reflecting historically tight slaughter• Dairy cow slaughter is the only category running higher• Heavier carcass weights reflect longer days on feed• Feedlots are feeding longer to offset high breakevens• Headline risk continues to create short-term whiplashChapters00:00 Sports rivalry and market kickoff02:00 Sideways futures and cash trade recap04:30 Record feeder cattle index and wide basis gap07:00 The extreme feeder-to-fat spread explained09:30 Packers, leverage, and volatility from headlines12:00 Beef cutout jump and potential plant strike impact15:00 Export challenges and global pricing pressure17:30 Cattle on Feed report breakdown20:00 Heavier carcass weights and longer days on feed22:30 Spring outlook and risk moving forwardcattle market update 2025, CME feeder cattle index record high, feeder cattle futures basis, feeder to fat cattle spread, cash cattle trade 245 249, beef cutout jump, plant strike cattle market, cattle on feed report January, carcass weights 2025, Lent beef demand, U.S. beef exports 2025, packer leverage cash cattle, cattle market volatility, agricultural commodity markets, livestock market analysis

If you feed hay and you do not test it, you are guessing. And guessing in ruminant nutrition is expensive. In this episode, Lauren breaks down the science behind hay testing, what those lab numbers actually mean, and how they connect directly to reproduction, intake, milk production, and profitability. From crude protein and TDN to fiber fractions and mineral deficiencies, this conversation explains why visual appraisal is unreliable and how small nutritional gaps quietly compound into open cows and lost margin.LinksNominate or request to be a guest - forms.gle/fRkvzRenh7mqkDXV7 CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways• Hay quality can vary dramatically even within the same field or cutting• Visual inspection does not accurately predict crude protein or energy• Two bales that look identical can differ by 5 to 10 percentage points in protein• Cattle intake is calculated on a dry matter basis, not as-fed weight• Crude protein below 7 to 8 percent slows rumen microbial activity• Reduced microbial activity decreases fiber digestion and voluntary intake• Mid-gestation cows typically require 50 to 55 percent TDN• Late gestation and lactation cows often require 55 to 60 percent TDN or higher• NDF predicts intake, and levels above 65 percent significantly reduce consumption• ADF predicts digestibility and overall energy extraction per pound consumed• Phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium are common macro mineral deficiencies• Copper, zinc, and selenium drive immune function, reproduction, and calf vigor• High iron soils can interfere with copper absorption• Nutritional deficiencies often show up as poor body condition, delayed breed back, and weak calves• A basic hay test costing $20 to $30 can prevent thousands in supplementation errors• Testing prevents both over-supplementing and under-supplementingChapters00:00 Why guessing on hay quality is expensive02:00 The biology of the rumen and microbial fermentation04:00 Moisture and dry matter fundamentals05:30 Crude protein and rumen function08:00 Energy, TDN, and reproductive performance10:30 Fiber fractions: NDF, ADF, and intake limits13:00 Relative feed value and forage ranking15:00 Macro and trace mineral deficiencies18:00 Where deficiencies show up in commercial herds20:30 The economics of hay testing22:00 Minimum recommended test package and next stepshay testing for cattle, crude protein in hay, TDN requirements beef cows, NDF and ADF explained, ruminant nutrition basics, beef cow mineral deficiencies, phosphorus deficiency cattle, copper deficiency cattle, selenium deficiency cattle, beef cattle supplementation strategy, forage quality testing, winter feeding management, reproduction and nutrition cattle

What happens when the entire ranch depends on one person? One decision maker. One problem solver. One brain holding the system together. It looks strong. It looks efficient. But it’s fragile. In this episode, Lauren breaks down key person dependency in ranching, why it quietly weakens operations over time, and how leadership is not about being irreplaceable. It’s about building systems, shared responsibility, and resilience that lasts beyond one individual.LinksNominate or request to be a guest - forms.gle/fRkvzRenh7mqkDXV7 CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways• Key person dependency creates structural fragility in ranch operations• Competence often causes over-centralization of decision making• When no one else builds decision muscles, leadership gaps form• Burnout, illness, or retirement can expose system weaknesses instantly• Essential and sustainable are not the same thing• Decision fatigue and resentment build when one nervous system carries everything• Succession fails when the next generation never practices leadership• If the ranch stalls without you, that’s a systems gap• Documentation turns knowledge into infrastructure• Financial transparency builds future operators• Delegating decisions builds capability, not just task completion• Redundancy is resilience, not waste• Real strength is structural, not personality-drivenChapters00:00 The fragility of dependency in ranching02:30 Key person risk and structural brittleness04:30 Burnout, identity, and leadership traps06:30 Succession pressure versus succession preparation08:30 The 30-day test10:00 Documenting systems and distributing decisions12:00 Building redundancy and long-term resilienceranch leadership, ranch succession planning, key person dependency agriculture, ranch management systems, family ranch transition, preventing burnout ranchers, distributed leadership agriculture, ranch financial transparency, cattle operation resilience, agricultural risk management

This week, Lauren and Emma step away from markets to address the devastating wildfires burning across the Oklahoma Panhandle and southern Kansas. With more than 283,000 acres affected and containment still ongoing at the time of recording, ranchers are facing cattle losses, destroyed infrastructure, burned grazing ground, and long-term recovery challenges. This episode breaks down what we know, what recovery really looks like, and how producers across the country can show up in meaningful and legitimate ways to help.LinksKansasKLA Office - (785) 273-5115Donate Online - https://www.kla.org/affiliates/kansas-livestock-foundation/disaster-relief-donations Wildfire Relief Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/groups/2017wildfirereliefThe Rancher Navy Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/182zrvruJZ/OklahomaOCF Office - 405-435-4391OCF Fire Relief Fund - https://www.okcattlemen.org/If you would like to donate to this relief effort, you can do so by mail or online. OCF is a 501c(3) charitable arm of the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association (OCA). Make checks payable toOklahoma Cattlemen’s Foundation and put “Fire Relief” in the memo line and send to P.O. Box82395, Oklahoma City, OK 73148.Donation Centers - https://extension.okstate.edu/programs/emergency-and-disaster-preparedness/wildfire/donation-centers-for-wildfire-relief.html Nominate or request to be a guest - forms.gle/fRkvzRenh7mqkDXV7 CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways• The Ranger Road Fire has burned over 283,000 acres as of February 20• High winds and dry conditions accelerated the spread rapidly• Multiple fires ignited across the region, not just one location• Containment remains limited, with recovery efforts ongoing• Infrastructure losses include fencing, barns, equipment, and homes• Smoke inhalation and delayed cattle losses may continue after the fire is contained• Calving season adds additional vulnerability for affected operations• Volunteer fire departments and neighbors are carrying much of the response• Fraud and illegitimate donation efforts are a real risk after disasters• County Extension Offices and state cattle organizations are the safest contact points for donations• Hauling hay and supplies is a critical need• Long-term recovery includes rebuilding herds, grass, and infrastructure• Strategic grazing management can help reduce future fire risk• The mental and emotional toll on producers is significantChapters00:00 Why we’re having this conversation01:15 What happened in Beaver County and the Ranger Road Fire03:30 Containment status and comparison to previous wildfires06:00 Cattle losses, infrastructure damage, and economic impact09:00 The emotional reality for producers12:00 How to donate safely and avoid scams15:00 Physical supply needs and hauling support17:30 Long-term mitigation and grazing management strategies20:00 Closing encouragement and community supportOklahoma wildfire 2025, Kansas wildfire 2025, Ranger Road Fire, Beaver County Oklahoma fire, cattle losses wildfire, ranch fire recovery, livestock wildfire damage, Kansas Livestock Association relief, Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Foundation fire relief, donate hay wildfire, fencing supplies wildfire relief, volunteer firefighters ranch fire, smoke inhalation cattle, grazing management wildfire prevention, agricultural disaster response

Cattle markets continue their historic climb with seven-dollar calves, feeder cattle pushing new highs, and fed cattle trading near $2.50. Demand remains strong and buying depth continues to surprise producers across the Plains.But this week’s market strength is overshadowed by devastating wildfires across southwest Kansas and the Oklahoma Panhandle. With over 200,000 acres burned, ranchers are facing destroyed grass, fences, infrastructure, and smoke-damaged cattle. The rebuilding effort will take months and community support will be critical.This episode covers the market update, regional highlights, and how listeners can support fire relief efforts through trusted cattle industry organizations.LinksKansasKLA Office - (785) 273-5115Donate Online - https://www.kla.org/affiliates/kansas-livestock-foundation/disaster-relief-donations Wildfire Relief Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/groups/2017wildfirereliefThe Rancher Navy Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/182zrvruJZ/OklahomaOCF Office - 405-435-4391OCF Fire Relief Fund - https://www.okcattlemen.org/If you would like to donate to this relief effort, you can do so by mail or online. OCF is a 501c(3) charitable arm of the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association (OCA). Make checks payable toOklahoma Cattlemen’s Foundation and put “Fire Relief” in the memo line and send to P.O. Box82395, Oklahoma City, OK 73148.Donation Centers - https://extension.okstate.edu/programs/emergency-and-disaster-preparedness/wildfire/donation-centers-for-wildfire-relief.html Nominate or request to be a guest - forms.gle/fRkvzRenh7mqkDXV7 CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways• Calf and feeder markets remain extremely strong across the region• Seven-dollar three-weight steers reported in Colorado• Eight-weight steers trading north of $360• Spring calving cows selling above $4,000 in select packages• Fed cattle reported as high as $250 in some areas• Regional demand remains aggressive despite lighter receipts• Over 200,000 acres burned in Kansas and Oklahoma wildfires• Smoke damage, fence loss, and long-term grass loss create ongoing challenges• 100 percent of relief funds through state cattle associations go directly to impacted ranchers• Donations, hay, fencing supplies, fuel, and trucking support are all neededChapters00:00 Market tone and mixed emotions01:20 La Junta market report04:30 Regional highlights from Dodge City, Pratt, Riverton07:00 Fed cattle and cash trade strength08:00 Wildfire devastation across Kansas and Oklahoma11:00 Personal perspective from 2017 wildfire experience14:00 Relief resources and how to help19:00 Closing encouragement and community call to actioncattle market update, seven dollar calves, $250 fed cattle, feeder cattle prices, spring calving cow prices, Dodge City cattle market, Pratt Kansas cattle sale, Riverton Wyoming cattle, Kansas wildfires, Oklahoma Panhandle wildfires, ranch fire relief, Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association, Kansas Livestock Association, wildfire cattle losses, fence loss fire, hay donation fire relief, rancher support efforts, beef demand strength, cash cattle rally

This week the team digs into a strong cash cattle rally, a technical breakout in futures, and what finally gave the board something real to price. Cash traded up to 250 in spots, feeders were choppy, and open interest suggests managed money still believes in the move.But under the surface, cow slaughter is ticking higher, dairy liquidation is adding volume, and March and April supplies may not be as tight as some hope. At the same time, beef demand projections for 2026 were revised higher, signaling strong long-term optimism. The big questions now revolve around consumer follow-through, packer behavior, and whether grilling season can absorb the added numbers.LinksNominate or request to be a guest - forms.gle/fRkvzRenh7mqkDXV7 CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways• Cash cattle rallied sharply late week, with trade up to 250 in some regions• Futures responded with technical strength and renewed optimism• Feeder markets remain uneven, with heavier cattle favored• Canadian competition is adding pressure in certain regions• Cow slaughter is increasing, especially from dairy liquidation• Spring-fed cows and higher slaughter rates could cap rallies• Beef demand forecasts were revised higher for 2026• Consumer demand during grilling season will be critical• Grain markets remain mostly sideways, with risk still presentChapters00:00 Market tone and wind-blown Midwest01:20 Cash cattle rally and futures breakout03:40 Feeder cattle and Canadian competition06:30 Cow slaughter trends and dairy impact09:30 Demand outlook and grilling season11:30 Grain market cautioncash cattle trade, 250 live cattle, feeder cattle market, cow slaughter increase, dairy liquidation, Canadian cattle imports, beef demand forecast 2026, grilling season demand, cattle futures technical breakout, open interest cattle, packer behavior, formula pricing cattle, USDA beef consumption, ground beef demand, corn market outlook, soybean market risk

Lauren and Gary open with a little real-life adulting before diving into what matters for producers right now. Moisture is finally showing up in some areas, but the bigger story is timing. Gary breaks down where the LRC cycle is headed next, why Kansas and Nebraska still need to watch late March into mid-April closely, and what a potential early April hard freeze could mean for winter wheat. They also discuss severe weather windows, why this year’s unusually long cycle matters, and why heat stress planning for late July into early August needs to start now.LinksWeather 20/20 Dashboard Discount⁠ - https://www.weather2020.com/partner/cattle-usaSubstack - https://weather2020.substack.com/The Global Predictor App ⁠- ⁠https://www.weather2020.com/global-predictor-mobile-appYoutube⁠ -https://www.youtube.com/@Weather2020Follow Gary on X ⁠- https://x.com/glezak CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Takeaways• Some moisture is returning, but key Plains regions remain behind• The LRC focuses on timing risk windows weeks to months ahead• April 5–15 is a potential hard freeze window across parts of the Plains• Early to mid-March storms in the West can trigger warm-ups across the Plains• Late March into mid-April cycles back toward colder risk• This year’s cycle is unusually long at roughly 10–11 weeks• Severe weather windows can be projected based on prior cycle behavior• March 16–25 is flagged for severe weather risk, with a late May to early June return• Late July into early/mid-August remains the primary heat wave risk window• Heat stress planning should begin now, not when temperatures spikeChapters00:00 Moisture update and where conditions stand03:00 April freeze window and what it could mean06:00 Severe weather timing and the long cycle10:30 Summer heat risk and planning ahead14:00 Real life, ranch life, and weekend snow watchLRC weather pattern, Lezak Recurring Cycle, Weather 2020, Plains drought, Kansas weather outlook, Nebraska moisture, winter wheat freeze risk, April hard freeze, spring cold fronts, March storm track, severe weather windows, tornado timing, late May storms, summer heat wave, cattle heat stress planning, feedlot heat risk, pasture management weather, Midwest weather forecast, predictive weather model

Lauren poses a leadership question that most producers avoid because it forces honesty. If you had to start over from absolute scratch with the same land, region, and resources, what would you build differently. This episode is not about regret. It’s about reflection, alignment, and using clarity to make smarter decisions now without needing a full reset. Lauren breaks down the most common “I’d do this sooner” patterns she hears from experienced ranchers, then gives listeners a simple two-list exercise to create momentum before summer.LinksNominate or request to be a guest - forms.gle/fRkvzRenh7mqkDXV7 CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Takeaways• The “start over” question is a leadership tool, not a regret spiral• Clarity comes from saying the quiet answers out loud• Reflection sounds like “that taught me something,” not “I messed up”• Most experienced producers already know where their operation is misaligned• 5 common patterns ranchers say they’d change sooner: cow fit, equipment, numbers, culling discipline, systems• Matching cows to land beats matching cows to trends, neighbors, or what looks impressive• Equipment ownership often feels productive but can quietly drain margin• Tracking cost per cow and breakevens earlier prevents expensive “invisible habits”• Emotional culling decisions are expensive. Math-driven standards protect profitability• Systems create sustainability. Hard work alone eventually breaks people• You don’t have to start over. You can adjust from here• The real barrier to change is psychology: change feels like admitting you were wrong• Evolving your operation is not betrayal of tradition. It’s stewardship and leadership• Homework: make a “stop” list and a “start” list, then act on one item from each before summerChapters00:00 The question: if you had to start over, would you do it differently01:25 Clarity vs regret, and why most ranchers avoid reflection05:25 The psychology: why people don’t change even when they know they should06:40 Flip the question: what would you keep if you started over07:10 Listener homework: stop list, start list, one action before summerranch management, ranch profitability, cow calf operation, ranch efficiency, cost per cow, breakeven analysis, culling strategy, replacement heifers, cow size and efficiency, equipment costs, custom hire vs own equipment, grazing systems, water infrastructure, fencing systems, ranch debt structure, pasture lease negotiation, ranch leadership, producer mindset, regret vs reflection, ranch systems, sustainable ranching, rural business leadership, ranch decision making, cattle operation turnaround, management intensive grazing, herd alignment, reproductive efficiency, breeding window, ranch planning, ranch strategy

Burnout in agriculture hits different because the work doesn’t stop. The cows still need fed, the water still needs checked, and calving doesn’t care how tired you are. In this episode, Lauren and Emma get real about burnout, mental health, and the pressure of carrying too much for too long. They talk through lived experience, the “cowboy up” mentality, the danger of isolation, and practical ways to manage stress when stepping away isn’t an option.LinksMental Health Resources - https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/general-information/staff-offices/office-congressional-relations/office-external-and-intergovernmental-affairs/center-faith/farm-stress-and-mental-health-resources Emma's Links - https://linktr.ee/doubleeranch ⁠CattleUSA Website - ⁠https://www.cattleusa.com/⁠ Facebook - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamedia⁠ Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/⁠ Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusadrive.com/premiumCattleUSA Media - ⁠https://www.cattleusamedia.com/⁠ Lauren’s Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/⁠ Lauren’s Youtube - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@Showboatmediaco⁠ The Next Generation Podcast Website - ⁠https://www.thenextgenag.com/⁠Key Takeaways• Burnout is common in ag because the work never pauses• “Cowboy up” can’t be the only coping mechanism• Agriculture can be isolating, which amplifies mental health risk• It’s okay to ask for help, on the ranch and in life• Finding the right support matters, especially people who understand ag• Dumping your to-do list helps reduce mental load at night• Small daily habits can create real relief over time• Delegation is hard but necessary as operations and businesses grow• Burnout affects relationships, not just productivity• Progress is easier to see when you track it over time• Faith, mentors, and professional resources can all play a role• Taking care of yourself is part of taking care of the operationChapters00:00 Burnout, stress, and the reality of “the work doesn’t stop”01:45 Why ag burnout is different than other industries03:10 “Cowboy up” culture and why it has limits04:30 Isolation, suicide risk, and why community matters06:10 Why “just step away” isn’t realistic in ag07:45 Practical tools: brain dump lists, reading, decompression10:00 Delegation, assistants, and letting go of control12:30 Tracking progress to fight the “I’m not doing enough” feeling13:55 Burnout impacts your family and relationships14:45 What support can look like: faith, mentors, resources15:30 Closing thoughts: you can’t run the ranch if you’re not okayag burnout, mental health in agriculture, ranch burnout, farmer stress, cattle industry wellness, rural mental health, burnout recovery, stress management for ranchers, farm mental health resources, agricultural suicide prevention, work-life balance in ag, burnout in business owners