In this episode of the Angus Underground, host David Brown interviews Kirk Duff of Duff Cattle Company, Hobart, OK. They discuss the evolution of the Duff operation, Kirk's breeding philosophy, and the importance of consistency and quality in cattle production. Kirk shares insights into his partnership with Whole Foods and the scale of his beef production. The conversation also touches on the upcoming production sale featuring a diverse lineup of bulls and females, emphasizing the significance of building a quality product in the cattle industry.

Takeaways

• Kirk Duff represents the essence of a master breeder.
• Duff Cattle Company has a rich history dating back to 1917.
• The breeding program focuses on producing low-maintenance, productive cattle.
• Kirk emphasizes the importance of eye appeal and structure in cattle.
• Consistency in breeding is a key goal for Kirk.
• The partnership with Whole Foods showcases the scale of Duff's beef production.
• Quality grade and consistency are crucial for Whole Foods specifications.
• Kirk's branding, Power Plus, emphasizes efficiency and maternal traits.
• The upcoming production sale features over 170 bulls and 80 females.
• Building relationships with customers is essential for success in the cattle business.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kirk Duff and Duff Cattle Company

02:57 The Evolution of Duff Cattle Company

05:48 Breeding Philosophy and Cattle Characteristics

08:56 Key Influential Cattle in the Breeding Program

11:48 Continuous Improvement in Breeding Practices

15:10 The Scale of Beef Production and Whole Foods Partnership

17:58 The Importance of Consistency in Cattle

21:00 The Power Plus Branding and Upcoming Production Sale

Links

Insuremybull.com

PowerPlusCattle.com

https://www.rouseysimangus.com/

Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.

In this episode of the Angus Underground, host David Brown welcomes back renowned Angus breeder Kelly Schaff. They discuss the journey of breeding Angus cattle and the pivotal moments that have shaped Kelly's successful breeding program. The conversation delves into influential sires, the importance of quality cattle, and the philosophy behind breeding decisions. They also touch on the role of EPDs in the breeding process and highlight the upcoming sale at Schaff Angus Valley, emphasizing the significance of networking within the cattle industry.

Takeaways

• Kelly Schaff emphasizes the importance of continuous self-improvement.
• Quality cattle are essential for success in breeding.
• The decision to focus on elite females was pivotal for Kelly's operation.
• EPDs are useful but should not overshadow the importance of real-world data.
• Networking at cattle sales can lead to valuable relationships and opportunities.
• Breeding philosophy should focus on enhancing traits rather than correcting flaws.
• Cattlemen share a common passion for improving their herds.
• The importance of maternal lines in breeding success cannot be overstated.
• The sale at Schaff Angus Valley is a significant event for Angus breeders.

Chapters

00:00 - New Year Reflections and Resolutions

03:12 - The Journey of an Angus Breeder

06:05 - Tipping Points in Breeding Success

08:57 - Influential Sires in Angus History

11:48 - The Importance of Quality Cattle

14:59 - Breeding Philosophy and Strategies

17:47 - The Role of EPDs in Breeding Decisions

21:04 - Upcoming Sale and Its Significance

Episode Links:

www.schaffangusvalley.com

montanaranchangus.com

Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.

In this episode, David kicks off the New Year by welcoming Rolly Fortune from Fortune Triangle S Ranch, Interior, SD, to discuss the ranch's history, cattle management practices, breeding strategies, and upcoming sales. Rolly shares insights into the evolution of the ranch, the importance of functional cattle, and the dynamics of selling bred cows and bulls. The conversation highlights the challenges and successes of family ranching, as well as the significance of maintaining quality genetics in cattle operations.

Segment 2 of this episode welcomes Matt Macfarlane with M3 Marketing, along with Dave Mullins of Compass Livestock Solutions, to discuss the upcoming Foundation Angus Sale and Foundation Frozen Genetics Online Sale to be held during the 2026 National Western Stock Show in Denver, CO.

Episode Links: 

https://www.fortunetrianglesranch.com/

https://m3cattlemarketing.com/

https://compasslivestock247.com/

https://salering.live/

https://nationalwestern.com/

https://www.montanaranchangus.com/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/925121354806523  - Angus Underground Community Facebook Group 

Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.

Tis the Season. The conversation in Segment 1 revolves around the 6th Annual Dotson Family Christmas Charity Raffle, its origins, growth, and impact on the community. David is joined by Greg and Carrie Dotson from Versailles, KY to discuss the charitable contributions made through their annual raffle, the details of ticket purchases, and the prizes involved. They also reflect on the personal joy and community spirit fostered by the event. The discussion touches on broader industry insights and the importance of supporting local charities and communities. Segment 2 of this episode has David sharing tales from the road as he embarks on his fall bull sale delivery trips.

Takeaways

• The Dotson Family Christmas Charity Raffle started in 2020 to bring cheer during a difficult year.
• Over five years, the raffle has raised over $183,000 for various charities.
• The raffle allows winners to choose local charities, focusing on community support.
• The event has become a beloved tradition in the community, engaging families and children.
• Tickets for the raffle are affordable at $5 each, encouraging widespread participation.
• The raffle has evolved into a significant community event, generating excitement and anticipation each year.
• The Dotson family emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizations in charitable giving.
• Challenges in the beef business include managing logistics and ensuring quality delivery.
• The hosts share personal anecdotes about the joy of giving and community involvement.
• The conversation highlights the need for the agricultural industry to support local ranchers and their sustainability.

Sound Bites

• "We want to help hometown people."
• "It's a grassroots organization."
• "We want to create a good product."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Dotson Family Charity Raffle

01:03 The Origin and Growth of the Raffle

03:52 Community Impact and Engagement

06:49 Details of the Raffle and Prizes

09:38 The Process of Ticket Sales and Donations

11:20 The Importance of Local Charities

14:28 Personal Reflections on the Raffle

17:20 The Freezer Beef Business

20:12 Challenges in the Beef Industry

23:24 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

38:33 Tales from the Road: Bull Delivery Adventures

39:03 The Logistics of Bull Delivery

40:57 The Challenges of Long-Distance Deliveries

41:53 The Joys of the Journey

45:17 The Importance of Customer Relationships

46:44 The Right Equipment for the Job

48:13 Ensuring Cattle Comfort During Transport

51:02 Favorite Delivery Destinations

54:49 Least Favorite Delivery Locations

59:17 Navigating Regulations and Challenges

01:01:15 Snacks and Playlists on the Road

01:05:04 Industry Insights and Rants

01:10:36 The Future of Cattle Breeding

Episode Links

6th Annual Dotson Family Christmas Charity Raffle - Venmo Greg @Greg-Dotson-9 or visit Woodford Feed Company, Versailles, KY https://www.facebook.com/greg.dotson.902

Virginia BCIA Bull Sale https://virginiabcia.com/

Creek Insurance https://creekinsure.com/

ClayStrong Genetics Enterprises https://www.facebook.com/p/Claystrong-Genetic-Enterprises-61568667508754/

Montana Ranch Angus https://www.montanaranchangus.com/

Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.

In this episode of Angus Underground, host David Brown discusses the chaotic aftermath of his recent bull sale, highlighting the complexities of customer interactions, logistics, and market trends. He emphasizes the importance of community engagement and customer feedback in improving future sales. The conversation also touches on the challenges of registration and invoicing, as well as the necessity of health testing for cattle delivery. David reflects on the success of the sale and the relationships built with customers, urging listeners to appreciate the support they receive in the cattle industry.

Takeaways

• The days following a sale are often more chaotic than the sale itself.
• Customer interactions post-sale are crucial for maintaining relationships.
• Logistics for delivery can be complex and require careful planning.
• Health testing is a necessary step for cattle delivery to certain states.
• Registration and invoicing can be challenging, especially with online buyers.
• Market trends can fluctuate based on external factors like social media.
• Community engagement is vital for the success of cattle sales.
• Reflecting on past sales helps improve future events.
• Customer feedback is essential for enhancing the sale experience.
• Building relationships with customers can lead to long-term loyalty.

Episode Links

MontanaRanchAngus.com

https://virginiabcia.com/

https://www.commongroundcoalition.net/

Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.

In this episode of Angus Underground, host David Brown welcomes long-time friend Robert Whitacre, co-owner of BreederLink. They explore market fundamentals, the importance of team dynamics in auction preparations, and how to ensure breeding season success with your herd. The conversation covers synchronization protocols, the impact of environment on breeding success, and the significance of nutrition and heat detection in achieving optimal fertility. The episode concludes with insights on managing young cattle and the future of breeding and management in the cattle industry.

Takeaways

• The cattle market fundamentals remain strong despite challenges.
• Annual bull sales are crucial for ranchers' success.
• Team dynamics play a vital role in auction preparations.
• Robert Whitacre shares insights on artificial insemination.
• BreederLink offers a unique approach to genetics.
• Environment significantly impacts breeding success.
• Quality control is essential in bull selection.
• Blue and Gray Angus emphasizes family involvement in breeding.
• Synchronization protocols are key to successful breeding.

Chapters

00:00 Halloween Fun and Candy Recommendations

02:49 Cattle Business Insights and Market Fundamentals

05:44 Preparing for the Annual Bull Sale

08:38 Team Dynamics and Auction Preparations

11:56 Introduction to Robert Whitaker and AI Expertise

12:52 BreederLink: A New Approach to AI and Genetics

19:46 The Importance of Environment in Breeding

22:39 BreederLink's Unique Selling Proposition

25:28 Quality Control in Bull Selection

28:51 Blue and Gray Angus: A Family Affair

35:28 The Angus Production Sale

38:46 Synchronization Protocols for Breeding

41:36 The Role of Nutrition in Breeding Success

44:32 Managing Young Cattle and Fertility

47:50 The Importance of Heat Detection

50:37 AI Techniques and Best Practices

53:27 Conception Rates and Environmental Factors

56:21 The Role of AI in Modern Breeding

59:39 Final Thoughts on Breeding and Management

Episode Links

BreederLink.com

MontanaRanchAngus.com

InsureMyBull.com

Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.

    In this episode of the Angus Underground Podcast, host David Brown and guests Jim McWilliam and Colonel Dave Mullins discuss the Montana Ranch Female Sale and the importance of embracing uniqueness in cattle breeding. They explore innovative approaches to ranching, adapting to environmental challenges, and the significance of customer feedback in shaping breeding programs. The conversation emphasizes the need for intentionality in breeding decisions and the role of genetics in producing high-quality cattle. The episode concludes with reflections on the journey of cattle breeding and the importance of community in the industry.

Takeaways

·      Embrace uniqueness in cattle breeding.

·      Quality is more important than quantity.

·      Listen to customer feedback for improvement.

·      Adapt breeding practices to environmental challenges.

·      Innovation is essential in the cattle industry.

·      Intentionality in breeding decisions leads to success.

·      Genetic consistency is key to profitability.

·      Networking and community are vital in ranching.

·      Dare to think outside the box.

·      Problem-solving should be at the forefront of breeding strategies.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Angus Underground Podcast

02:24 Excitement for the Upcoming Female Sale

09:50 Dare to be Different: Embracing Uniqueness

12:36 Innovative Approaches in Cattle Breeding

19:49 Adapting to Environmental Challenges

29:35 The Importance of Customer Feedback

39:42 Genetic Considerations in Cattle Breeding

47:33 Conclusion and Reflections on the Journey

Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.

In this episode, David welcomes special guest, Matt Thomson, owner of Thomson Land & Livestock, Blackfoot, ID. The conversation highlights significant communication challenges within American Angus, emphasizing the need for respectful dialogue and common ground to address divisiveness and improve relationships. Matt shares insight into his family cattle operation, along with the challenges faced with working off the ranch.

Links:

MontanaRanchAngus.com

CreekInsure.com

https://www.facebook.com/p/Claystrong-Genetic-Enterprises-61568667508754/

Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.

In this special 4th anniversary episode of the Angus Underground, host David Brown and guest Dave Mullins celebrate four years of the podcast while discussing the current state of the beef industry. They explore the importance of proven genetics in cattle breeding, the opportunities presented by the current bull market, and the upcoming Dams of Distinction sale. The conversation also delves into market trends, consumer demand, and strategies for financial success in cattle operations, emphasizing the need for critical evaluation of herd performance and management practices.

Takeaways

The Angus Underground podcast celebrates its four-year anniversary.

Dave Mullins shares insights on the beef industry's current state.

Proven genetics are crucial for successful cattle breeding.

The current bull market presents unique opportunities for breeders.

The Dams of Distinction sale offers valuable breeding stock.

Market trends indicate a strong demand for beef.

Evaluating cattle performance is essential for herd management.

Reducing input costs is key to profitability in cattle operations.

Beef on dairy plays a significant role in the Angus market.

Now is the time to take advantage of the historic market conditions.

Chapters

00:00

Celebrating Four Years of Angus Underground

02:33

Adventures in the Beef Industry

05:49

Reflections on Angus History and Community Engagement

08:44

Preparing for Production Sales and Cattle Management

11:51

Dams of Distinction: A New Event in Cattle Sales

19:38

Leveraging a Historic Market for Future Success

29:45

Navigating Beef Demand and Market Dynamics

37:09

Leveraging Opportunities in Cattle Operations

49:41

Strategic Financial Management in Cattle Business

56:09

Embracing Change and Future Planning

Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.

In this episode of the Angus Underground, host David Brown and producer Seana discuss their recent experiences at the Tennessee Angus Association Field Day, highlighting the importance of networking and community among Angus breeders. They delve into the significance of making Angus cattle work for producers and share insights from a special interview with Tom Burke, a prominent figure in Angus history. The conversation covers the evolution of Angus breeding, the impact of technology on cattle management, and reflections on the future of the Angus breed.

Takeaways

The Tennessee Angus Association Field Day was a remarkable event with attendees from all over the U.S.

Networking is crucial in the Angus breeding community, fostering lifelong friendships.

Producers often make excuses for their cattle, highlighting the need for accountability.

Bucket lists can inspire action and lead to fulfilling experiences in the Angus industry.

Tom Burke's insights into Angus history are invaluable and warrant further exploration.

The Angus Hall of Fame is a treasure trove of Angus history and memorabilia.

Sales management is essential for both small and large Angus breeders.

The evolution of Angus breeding has been influenced by both art and science.

Certified Angus Beef has significantly raised awareness and market share for Angus cattle.

The future of the Angus breed may face challenges from academic influences and performance-focused breeding.

Episode Links

https://www.angushall.com

https://3rbeef.com.au

https://creekinsure.com

MontanaRanchAngus.com

Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.