In this episode of the Ranch Stewards Podcast, we explore how one program is shaping the next generation of ranch managers and land stewards. The Dan Scott Ranch Management Program at Montana State University blends academic instruction with hands-on, on-the-ground internships—providing students with a well-rounded, real-world education in ranching systems.

You’ll hear from Dr. Rachel Frost, who leads the program; Montana rancher and mentor Billy Whitehurst; and student intern Major Harms. Together, they share how the program equips both seasoned ag kids and newcomers to the industry with the tools, experiences, and connections they need to succeed.

At Ranchers Stewardship Alliance, we believe education is essential to keeping working lands working. Tune in to hear how this innovative program is building a stronger, more resilient future for ranching.

🔗 Learn more about the Dan Scott Ranch Management Program at www.animalrange.montana.edu/danscott
🔗 Find more RSA stories, events, and resources at www.RanchStewards.org

The Ranchers Stewardship Alliance (RSA) is a rancher-led, grassroots organization, dedicated to improving the quality of life for rural communities throughout the Northern Great Plains. Through collaborative conservation projects, rancher education events, and local community outreach, RSA works to strengthen our rural community, economy, and culture for generations to come.

For more on the Ranchers Stewardship Alliance, head to www.RanchStewards.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Your feedback is always welcome. Email info@ranchstewards.org. Want to support our mission? Visit https://ranchstewards.charityproud.org/Donate.

In this episode of the Ranch Stewards Podcast, host Haylie Shipp sits down with longtime ag journalist, rancher, and now multi-time author Rachel Gabel. You may know Rachel from her work with The Fence Post Magazine or Western Ag Network—but today, we’re exploring a different side of her story: her journey into the world of book writing.

It all started with a moment close to home—her daughter’s hesitance to head off to kindergarten. That spark led to Rachel’s first children’s book, and she hasn’t slowed down since. With eight books under her belt and a ninth on the way, Rachel shares how writing became an added enterprise to her family’s ranching life.

We talk about the team it takes to publish a book (from illustrators to copy editors), what the process really looks like, the income potential of writing, and how to pursue creative work that fits into the rhythm of ranch life.

Connect with Rachel Gabel:
📚 Website: www.rachelgabel.com
📰 Writing: The Fence Post Magazine
🎙 Podcast: Pro Ag Podcast – available on all major platforms
📻 Contributor: Western Ag Network
📱 Facebook: RachelWrites

The Ranchers Stewardship Alliance (RSA) is a rancher-led, grassroots organization, dedicated to improving the quality of life for rural communities throughout the Northern Great Plains. Through collaborative conservation projects, rancher education events, and local community outreach, RSA works to strengthen our rural community, economy, and culture for generations to come.

For more on the Ranchers Stewardship Alliance, head to www.RanchStewards.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Your feedback is always welcome. Email info@ranchstewards.org. Want to support our mission? Visit https://ranchstewards.charityproud.org/Donate.

In this third and final bonus episode from National Ag Week on KLTZ Glasgow’s Live Under the Big Sky, we sit down with Jillien Streit, the new director of the Montana Department of Agriculture, to discuss her background, priorities for the department, and thoughts on agricultural trade. She also introduces the Beyond the Weather mental health campaign, a crucial initiative aimed at supporting the well-being of those in agriculture.

The conversation continues with Shayna Chupein, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with Frontier Psychiatry, who shares valuable insight into mental health resources available for farmers and ranchers.

If you or someone you know is struggling, remember—there is no shame in asking for help. Resources can be found at Beyond the Weather, and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7.

The Ranchers Stewardship Alliance (RSA) is a rancher-led, grassroots organization, dedicated to improving the quality of life for rural communities throughout the Northern Great Plains. Through collaborative conservation projects, rancher education events, and local community outreach, RSA works to strengthen our rural community, economy, and culture for generations to come.

For more on the Ranchers Stewardship Alliance, head to www.RanchStewards.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Your feedback is always welcome. Email info@ranchstewards.org. Want to support our mission? Visit https://ranchstewards.charityproud.org/Donate.