Join us as we welcome Sean Smith from Clanman Farm in Manitoba to share his family's rich history in dairy farming. Discover how Sean's grandparents initially chose Jersey cows for their high butterfat content, a decision that laid the foundation for the farm's success. Sean reflects on his childhood passion for farming, fostered through involvement in a 4-H club and cattle showing. You'll learn about the farm's evolution, including their transition to using a DeLaval VMS robotic milker, which has transformed their operations and reinforced their commitment to sustainable grazing practices.

Explore the innovative strategies that Sean employs to optimize dairy production, blending robotic milking systems with strategic grazing and Total Mixed Ration (TMR) feeding. Sean discusses how the strategic location of their barn and use of one-way gates enhance the cows' grazing patterns and milk yield. He provides insights into Canada's supply management system, explaining how it stabilizes milk prices and supports small farms. We also touch on the impact of dairy genetics, the use of sexed semen to boost herd quality, and the challenges of managing heifer numbers.

Finally, Sean shares his experiences in pasture management and soil health, highlighting the use of perennial and annual species mixes to maintain sustainable grazing. Listen as Sean discusses his experiments with breeding, including using beef breeds like Angus and Wagyu, and shares his approach to calf-rearing. We wrap up with Sean's favorite resources and tips for aspiring graziers, offering a blend of practical advice and personal anecdotes to inspire innovation and sustainability in agriculture.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Clanman Jerseys

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Noble Research Institute
Redmond
2025 Manderley Farms Grazing Conference

Grazing Grass Links
New Listener Resource Guide

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Website
Insiders
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Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction and Fast Five with Sean Smith
• (00:34) - History of Clanmen Jerseys
• (01:18) - Welcome to the Grazing Grass Podcast
• (01:52) - Ranch Management Courses Announcement
• (03:00) - Sean's Early Farming Influences
• (04:08) - Transition to Robotic Milking
• (06:11) - Regenerative Practices on the Farm
• (09:36) - Challenges and Innovations in Grazing
• (15:47) - Supply Management System in Canada
• (20:30) - Genetics and Breeding Strategies
• (26:43) - Choosing Beef Breeds: Angus and Wagyu
• (28:03) - Raising Calves on Nurse Cows
• (30:02) - Overgrazing Section: Redmond Minerals
• (31:12) - Forage Management for Dairy Cows
• (34:07) - No-Till Farming and Herbicide Use
• (35:31) - Winter Forage Strategies
• (36:40) - Soil Microorganisms and Composting
• (43:15) - Future Plans for Dairy Farming
• (47:23) - Famous Four Questions
• (54:00) - Conclusion and Listener Resources

In this episode of the Grazing Grass Podcast, esteemed cattle consultant Steve Campbell shares his remarkable journey from a stocker cattle manager to a leading figure in grass-finished beef production. Following a life-altering leg injury in 1999, Steve's career took a transformative path as he embraced regenerative practices, heavily influenced by the Stockman Grass Farmer magazine. His expertise in optimizing grass and mineral content has led to groundbreaking methods for disease prevention, such as eliminating pink eye and foot rot. Steve's commitment to sustainable cattle management, along with his innovative approach to genetic and epigenetic cattle selection, makes this episode a treasure trove of insights for those interested in elevating cattle development.

Topics covered in this episode:

• Selecting cattle for grass efficiency
• Genetic and epigenetic cattle selection
• Selecting bulls for cattle improvement
• Assessing cattle fertility and indicators
• Grazing management and cattle selection

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about sustainable cattle management and regenerative agriculture. Steve Campbell's profound insights into strategic breeding, disease prevention, and the optimization of grass and mineral content provide invaluable knowledge for both seasoned grazers and newcomers. By listening, you'll gain practical tips and tools to enhance your cattle management practices and improve meat quality while addressing challenges such as fertility and udder quality. Don't miss the opportunity to learn from a true pioneer in the field.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Tailor Made Cattle

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Redmond
2025 Manderley Farms Grazing Conference

Grazing Grass Links
New Listener Resource Guide

Provide feedback for the podcast
Website
Insiders
Resources (Coming Soon)
Community (on Facebook)
Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction
• (00:28) - Meet Steve Campbell: Background and Early Life
• (04:29) - Transition to Grass Finishing
• (07:19) - Learning and Implementing Rotational Grazing
• (20:28) - Selecting Efficient Cattle for Grass
• (33:56) - Exploring Dairy Cow Ownership
• (34:24) - Selecting the Right Bull for Your Herd
• (35:22) - Understanding Bull and Cow Anatomy
• (38:04) - Calving Ease and Gestation Insights
• (38:58) - The Importance of Bull Shoulders
• (42:54) - Epigenetics and Herd Improvement
• (43:50) - Environmental Adaptation of Cows
• (48:13) - Indicators of Fertility in Bulls and Cows
• (55:11) - Famous Four Questions
• (01:04:16) - Conclusion and Resources

Join us on a journey to Emory, Texas, as we explore the innovative multi-species ranching operation at Legends Cattle Company with our guests, Thomas and Emily. Thomas shares how their family-run ranch has expanded over five generations, evolving from a traditional cattle farm into a diverse ecosystem that includes sheep, pigs, and chickens, all managed through grass finishing. Emily, hailing from a beach town in California, talks about her vital role in marketing and sales for their Born and Raised brand, which sells directly to consumers. Together, they offer insights into their sustainable grazing techniques and how they are adapting to the varied needs of their livestock while improving land management.

In an intriguing segment, Thomas and Emily recount their unexpected paths into the world of ranching and livestock marketing. Despite starting as a city boy, Thomas landed a marketing role at Morning Rains Ranch and found a new connection with nature, which now helps him understand and respect animals. Emily, inspired by her grandfather's ranch and her involvement with the FFA, shares her journey from a love of animals in high school to a rewarding career in agriculture. Their stories underscore how past experiences and chance moments can lead to unexpected career paths in the ranching world.

We also discuss the Garrett family's evolution from traditional cattle farming to a leading seed stock producer focused on genetics and production. The conversation highlights their commitment to regenerative practices, such as rotational grazing, and the integration of multiple proteins like chicken, pork, and lamb. Thomas and Emily reveal the logistics behind their direct-to-consumer sales, offering a glimpse into their meat bundle options and customer preferences. From sustainable practices to local sourcing and small batch processing, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in diversified livestock operations and the benefits of grass-finishing livestock for optimal nutrition.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Born & Raised

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Redmond
2025 Manderley Farms Grazing Conference

Grazing Grass Links
New Listener Resource Guide

Provide feedback for the podcast
Website
Insiders
Resources (Coming Soon)
Community (on Facebook)
Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Today's Show
• (00:23) - Meet Thomas and Emily
• (01:01) - History of Legends Cattle Company
• (01:21) - Emily's Journey into Livestock Management
• (01:57) - Thomas' Role in Marketing
• (02:24) - Podcast and Community Announcements
• (03:54) - Daily Farm Operations
• (04:31) - Listener Engagement and Support
• (05:53) - Thomas' Marketing Journey
• (07:55) - Emily's Background and Passion for Livestock
• (12:25) - Expanding the Ranch Operations
• (21:10) - Sheep Breeding and Challenges
• (26:15) - Adding Pork to the Ranch
• (30:24) - Introducing Chickens to the Ranch
• (34:16) - Overgrazing and Grass-Based Finishing
• (34:19) - Optimizing Herd Nutrition with Redmond Minerals
• (35:39) - Grass Finishing Techniques and Forage Management
• (37:57) - Chicken Finishing Practices
• (41:49) - Pig Finishing and Diet Management
• (43:26) - Sheep Finishing and Breeding Programs
• (45:06) - Cattle Finishing and Pasture Management
• (46:12) - Processing and Packaging Strategies
• (49:18) - Customer Preferences and Marketing Strategies
• (51:14) - Subscription Bundles and Delivery Services
• (57:50) - Challenges and Requests in Meat Production
• (01:01:26) - Famous Four Questions and Closing Remarks

Travel with us from the vast plains of South Dakota to the sunny landscapes of Florida as we explore the transformative journey of Stephanie Anderson, a passionate advocate for regenerative agriculture. Discover how her upbringing on a traditional cattle ranch shaped her views and fueled her latest literary endeavor, "From the Ground Up: The Women Revolutionizing Regenerative Agriculture." Stephanie's insights into her family's unique grazing practices, combined with her generous offer of book copies, invite our Grazing Grass community to rethink conventional farming and embrace sustainable practices.

Unpacking the challenges faced by first-generation college students, we shine a light on the expectations from small-town life and the potential for meaningful careers within agriculture and beyond. Personal anecdotes paint a vivid picture of the stark contrasts and humorous realities of rural life versus broader societal norms. By highlighting the resilience of individuals like Stephanie, who ventured from traditional backgrounds into diverse fields, we emphasize the importance of sustainable agriculture as a viable and rewarding career path in today's economic climate.

The episode also delves into the broader impacts of regenerative practices on both personal and societal levels. From the pioneering work of farmers like Gabe Brown to the critical role of women and BIPOC individuals in reshaping our food systems, our discussion underscores the inclusivity and adaptability required in this movement. As we navigate through stories of innovative practices such as regenerative grazing and nutritious sprouting, Stephanie’s passion and perspective offer a beacon of hope for a sustainable agricultural future, encouraging listeners to consider how these practices can fortify our food systems in uncertain times.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Stephanie Anderson's Writings

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Redmond
2025 Manderley Farms Grazing Conference

Grazing Grass Links
New Listener Resource Guide

Provide feedback for the podcast
Website
Insiders
Resources (Coming Soon)
Community (on Facebook)
Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Stephanie Anderson
• (00:17) - Fast Five with Stephanie
• (00:56) - Welcome to the Grazing Grass Podcast
• (01:30) - Ranch Management Courses Announcement
• (02:26) - Farm Update: Bale Grazing and Lambing Season
• (04:22) - Grazing Grass Community on Facebook
• (05:01) - Stephanie's Early Ranching Experiences
• (08:21) - Pursuing an English Major and Writing Career
• (15:14) - Stephanie's Writing Journey and Regenerative Practices
• (21:37) - Impact of Regenerative Practices on Family Ranch
• (22:58) - Challenges of Transitioning to Regenerative Agriculture
• (24:50) - Inspiration Behind 'From the Ground Up'
• (28:48) - Inclusive Practices in Regenerative Agriculture
• (30:15) - The Importance of Storytelling in Farming
• (31:01) - Challenges and Opportunities for Young Farmers
• (32:31) - Transitioning Farmland to the Next Generation
• (34:21) - Economic Stability Through Regenerative Practices
• (35:20) - Introducing Stephanie's Book
• (36:49) - Diverse Regenerative Practices Across the U.S.
• (44:44) - The Role of Fire in Land Management
• (47:59) - Innovative Grazing Techniques and Diversification
• (52:06) - Stephanie's Future Writing Projects
• (53:34) - The Famous Four Questions
• (01:01:07) - Conclusion and Listener Resources

Unlock the secrets to successful farm stacking and low-maintenance beekeeping as we share the inspiring journey of Adam Martin from B Strong Homestead in Cologa, Tennessee. Adam transitioned from city life to homesteading during the pandemic, adapting to the challenges and joys of raising dairy cows and embracing regenerative farming practices. From tackling a lack of electricity with a 12-volt milking system to utilizing bale grazing for winter pasture management, Adam provides practical insights and valuable lessons learned along the way.

Adam's story doesn't stop with cattle. His passion for sustainable living stretches into the world of beekeeping—a journey fueled by a lifelong love for honey. Discover how Adam moved from traditional methods to a more natural, minimalist approach, focusing on techniques like swarm trapping and the use of horizontal hives. This approach not only enhances insulation but also minimizes disturbances during inspections, allowing bees to thrive with minimal human intervention. Adam's experiences demonstrate how beekeeping can be a rewarding complement to any homestead.

Rounding out this enlightening episode, we delve into the broader benefits that honeybees bring to rural properties, enhancing garden and pasture growth through superior pollination. For those eager to try their hand at stacking enterprises, Adam shares a wealth of resources and practical tips, from must-read books to essential tools. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just beginning your homesteading adventure, Adam's insights and recommendations will inspire you to embrace imperfection and take a hands-on approach to farm life and beekeeping.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Bee Kept

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Redmond
2025 Manderley Farms Grazing Conference

Grazing Grass Links
New Listener Resource Guide

Provide feedback for the podcast
Website
Insiders
Resources (Coming Soon)
Community (on Facebook)
Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Stacking Enterprises
• (01:00) - Meet Adam Martin and Be Strong Homestead
• (01:55) - Winter Grazing and Farm Practices
• (02:07) - Podcast Introduction and Beekeeping Teaser
• (02:41) - Noble Profitability Essentials Course
• (04:01) - Winter Farm Activities and Manure Management
• (05:25) - Dairy Cows and Homesteading Journey
• (10:14) - Challenges and Lessons in Dairy Farming
• (13:40) - Bull Management and Breeding Decisions
• (17:05) - Utilizing Milk on the Homestead
• (20:39) - The Appeal of Beekeeping
• (23:09) - Starting with Bees and Swarm Trapping
• (29:04) - Natural Beekeeping Practices
• (33:53) - The Importance of Local Honey
• (35:17) - Embracing Regenerative Farming
• (37:05) - The Shift to Horizontal Hives
• (39:12) - Benefits of Horizontal Hives
• (45:37) - Overgrazing and Bee Integration
• (49:26) - Low Maintenance Beekeeping
• (52:51) - Setting Up Swarm Traps
• (01:02:59) - Famous Four Questions
• (01:08:52) - Conclusion and Resources

Jared Sorensen, a passionate rancher and steward, shares his captivating journey through the world of ranching, revealing the unique challenges and triumphs of managing Secret Pass Livestock in northeastern Nevada. Growing up as the youngest of ten siblings, Jared chose a path less traveled, embracing hands-on experience over formal education. His time at Deseret Ranch in Florida taught him invaluable lessons in efficient cattle management and stewardship, fueling his desire for entrepreneurial ownership and legacy-building. Listen as Jared recounts how these formative experiences have shaped his approach to ranching and influenced the nurturing of an entrepreneurial spirit in his nine children.

The episode also delves into the cutting-edge realm of virtual fencing technology. We explore the challenges Jared faced over the past six months as he integrated this innovation into his ranching practices. Despite the technical hurdles and occasional setbacks, Jared remains optimistic about the potential of virtual fencing to revolutionize land management and enhance carbon sequestration. His journey is a testament to resilience and adaptability, underscoring the importance of profitability and sustainability in agriculture. Together, we discuss how these innovations align with holistic ranching practices and the biblical perspective of stewardship.

Finally, we highlight the educational initiatives of AgStewart, Jared's education and coaching company dedicated to helping family-owned farms thrive. From one-on-one guidance to virtual summits, AgStewart connects a global community of farmers and ranchers, providing essential education and accountability to achieve profitability, land regeneration, and sustainable business practices. As we wrap up, we invite listeners to join the growing regenerative agriculture community and embrace a lifestyle that values mental and emotional well-being, sustainable success, and meaningful relationships.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
The Profitable Regeneration Summit

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Redmond
2025 Manderley Farms Grazing Conference

Grazing Grass Links
New Listener Resource Guide

Provide feedback for the podcast
Website
Insiders
Resources (Coming Soon)
Community (on Facebook)
Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction and Overview
• (00:10) - Fast Five with Jared Sorenson
• (03:31) - Jared's Background and Early Life
• (06:38) - Transition to Cattle Ranching
• (17:43) - Direct Marketing and Business Strategies
• (20:36) - Virtual Fencing Challenges
• (27:25) - Stewardship and Profitable Ranching
• (32:37) - Addressing Stress and Relationships in Agriculture
• (33:06) - Ecological and Financial Health in Farming
• (33:56) - The Role of Financial Institutions in Supporting Regenerative Practices
• (36:55) - The Importance of Mental Health in Agriculture
• (41:54) - Holistic Management and Mentorship
• (47:09) - Introduction to AgSteward and Its Mission
• (50:01) - Virtual Summits and Community Building
• (55:23) - Famous Four Questions and Closing Remarks

Theo Beaumont, from the forefront of agricultural innovation, joins us to share his journey and insights into the world of virtual fencing technology. From growing up to navigating a potential career in banking, Theo found his true calling at Halter, a trailblazer in virtual fencing based in New Zealand. We explore his pivotal role in the company’s expansion into the United States, uncovering how his passion for agricultural technology is helping to shape the future of livestock management across six states with aspirations for further growth.

Our conversation delves into Halter's strategic focus on the dairy and beef sector for the US, Australian, and New Zealand markets. Theo walks us through the company's shift from prioritizing labor savings to enhancing pasture management, a move that has significantly boosted efficiencies in dairy operations. Learn how Halter's commitment to refining virtual fencing technology is paving the way for meaningful changes in pasture-based systems, offering farmers new tools for success even in challenging terrains.

Implementing Halter’s cutting-edge collar technology involves more than just equipment; it’s about adaptability and support. Theo shares the meticulous process of integrating this system on ranches, from initial planning to the thrill of collaring cattle. Our discussion highlights the versatility of these collars in managing livestock using GPS, auditory cues, and gentle pulses. Theo’s advice for newcomers in agriculture—curiosity and hands-on experience—resonates throughout, encouraging anyone passionate about farming to connect with Halter and explore this transformative technology.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Halter

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Redmond

Grazing Grass Links
New Listener Resource Guide

Provide feedback for the podcast
Website
Insiders
Resources (Coming Soon)
Community (on Facebook)
Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Today's Episode
• (00:09) - Fast Five with Theo Beaumont
• (00:58) - Halter's Global Reach
• (01:57) - Welcome to the Grazing Grass Podcast
• (02:31) - Noble Profitability Essentials Course
• (03:57) - Theo's Journey to Halter
• (05:04) - New Zealand's Farming Practices
• (08:48) - Virtual Fencing and Dairy Farming
• (13:03) - Expanding Halter's Reach
• (15:47) - Challenges and Successes in New Zealand
• (19:43) - Overgrazing Section Sponsored by Redmond
• (20:53) - Halter's Expansion in the US and Australia
• (23:40) - How Halter's Virtual Fencing Works
• (27:00) - Solar-Powered Collars: Longevity and Warranty
• (27:20) - Subscription Model Explained
• (27:51) - Base Station Tower and Warranty
• (28:15) - Implementation Timeline for Ranches
• (28:53) - Focus on Beef Operations
• (29:47) - Onboarding and Installation Process
• (31:49) - Training Cows with Virtual Fences
• (33:31) - How Virtual Fences Work
• (38:45) - Collar Safety and Calf Management
• (41:39) - GPS Tracking and App Features
• (49:30) - Customer Service and Expansion
• (51:04) - Famous Four Questions

What if you could transform your farming operation by improving efficiency and biosecurity, while also ensuring the health and productivity of your livestock? Join us as we welcome Wyatt Catron, a mobile food animal veterinarian, and Samantha Catron, a postdoc fellow at the University of Arkansas. Together, they share insights into the world of hair sheep farming and livestock health. Our conversation leads us to Paragon Ranch in Stillwater, Oklahoma, where we explore their innovative approach to raising low-input hair sheep with a focus on parasite resistance and maternal traits.

Our guests, Wyatt and Samantha, guide us through the journey of sheep breed selection and the importance of genetics in overcoming challenges like shearing and market demands. We discuss the benefits of hair sheep, delving into practical strategies to enhance flock quality and adaptability. Wyatt shares his international experiences, drawing fascinating comparisons between sheep farming practices in the United States and Australia. This discussion is enriched by insights into efficiency improvements, including innovative equipment and record-keeping that can optimize farm productivity.

As we delve deeper, the episode turns to the critical topic of farm biosecurity, offering practical advice on preventing disease spread. Wyatt and Samantha emphasize the significance of tailored biosecurity plans and the role veterinarians play in identifying potential blind spots. We also explore livestock health and reproduction management, focusing on the "four T's" for evaluating breeding animals. The episode concludes with a discussion on farm management and operational efficiency, showcasing the value of investing in the right equipment to streamline operations and maintain balance in the farming lifestyle.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Catron Veterinary Services
Catron Veterinary Services on Facebook

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute
Redmond

Grazing Grass Links
New Listener Resource Guide

Provide feedback for the podcast
Website
Insiders
Resources (Coming Soon)
Community (on Facebook)
Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

• (00:00) - e151. Wyatt Catron
• (35:16) - Overgrazing Topic of BioSecurity
• (59:49) - Famous Four Questions