Better Beef

What does it take to build better beef—and a meaningful career helping the people who raise it? On this episode of Better Beef, host Kaid Panek sits down with Jamie Wolf, Director of Brand Marketing and Genetic Sales at Jorgensen Land & Cattle, for a conversation about cattle, career changes, and finding purpose through service. 

Raised in South Dakota as the son of a veterinarian, Jamie grew up working cattle and learning from producers with different management styles. He shares how those experiences, a passion for calf roping, and an education spanning junior college, Kansas State University, and Washington State University shaped his path. Originally considering veterinary medicine, Jamie ultimately pursued a master’s degree in nutrition with a goal: helping cattle producers become more profitable.

His journey took him through seedstock production, livestock nutrition, and county Extension work before an inventory and logistics position opened the door at Jorgensen Land & Cattle. Jamie describes the learning curve of coordinating thousands of lease bulls and how curiosity, commitment, and opportunities to contribute helped him grow into his role.

Kaid and Jamie explore what makes the Jorgensen team work, from strategic planning and open communication to shared accountability and a family atmosphere. Their discussion highlights how employees can find ownership in a mission, contribute ideas, and build careers within an established operation.

The conversation also examines the connection between genetics and customer success. Jamie explains how genomic testing, female selection, and matching bulls to herd goals can help commercial cattlemen make informed breeding decisions. Throughout the episode, he returns to the importance of building productive mother cows and keeping the commercial producer at the center of the program.

With stories from the rodeo arena, lessons from unexpected career turns, and insights into teamwork, this episode offers a look at the people behind beef production. Jamie also introduces The Source podcast, where the Jorgensen team shares its thinking and industry expertise.

Tune in as Kaid Panek and Jamie Wolf discuss why better beef begins with great cows, strong relationships, and a commitment to helping others succeed across the cattle industry, one herd at a time.

For previous episodes of the Better Beef Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.

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What happens between the ranch and the finishing yard? In this episode of Better Beef, host Kaid sits down with Iowa cattle backgrounder AJ Friedges to explore the work, decisions, and calculations that prepare calves for their next stage in the beef supply chain. 

AJ Friedges explains how his operation purchases smaller groups of calves, brings them together, and develops them into larger, consistent groups for feedlot buyers. From identifying cattle with room for improvement to calculating purchase prices and cost of gain, he shares how backgrounding combines livestock management with a constant focus on margins.

The conversation breaks down why growing calves is different from finishing them. AJ discusses his emphasis on frame development, moderate daily gains, and preparing cattle to perform when they enter a finishing program. He also reflects on his transition from raising cows to backgrounding calves and the lessons that came with building an operation.

Calf health takes center stage as AJ describes the importance of observation and recognizing subtle changes in behavior. Whether a calf hangs back from the feed bunk, carries an ear differently, or moves unusually, small details can signal that something needs attention. Kaid and AJ also discuss how decisions made at the ranch can affect cattle farther along the production chain.

Market uncertainty adds another layer to the discussion. AJ shares how he approaches Livestock Risk Protection, projected sale values, and the financial exposure that comes with purchasing cattle and feed. Together, they unpack industry language surrounding the futures market and discuss why feeding on margin shapes buying decisions.

The episode also explores the challenges of rebuilding the nation’s cow herd, including drought, feed availability, and the resources required to retain heifers.

To close, AJ introduces Beyond the Bunk, a podcast project intended to connect perspectives across the cattle industry. His answer to what makes better beef brings the conversation back to the passion behind the work.

For cattle producers and curious consumers alike, this episode offers a clearer understanding of backgrounding and the people helping move cattle from pasture toward the plate, one managed group at a time, through changing markets.

For previous episodes of the Better Beef Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.

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In this episode of Better Beef, Kaid Panek sits down with World Champion bull rider Josh Frost for a conversation about rodeo, ranching, family, and the relentless work behind success. From chasing a gold buckle to managing cattle back home, Frost offers a look at a life where professional rodeo and agriculture are deeply connected. 

For previous episodes of the Better Beef Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.

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In this episode of Better Beef, host Kaid Panek sits down with Charly Cummings, one of the most respected voices in livestock auctioneering and the 2011 World Livestock Auctioneer Champion. From sale barns and production sales to his work with Superior Livestock, Charly has built a career around cattle, communication, and earning the trust of producers who place their livelihoods in his hands when sale day arrives.

Charly shares how his journey began as a young Kansas kid learning the auctioneer chant from his uncle before attending the Worldwide College of Auctioneering. He explains that becoming a successful auctioneer requires much more than talking fast. A clear, recognizable chant is important, but professionalism, knowledge of the product, integrity, and the ability to command a room are equally essential. For Charly, those qualities form the foundation of an auctioneer producers and buyers can trust.

The conversation also explores Charly’s road to becoming a world champion. He discusses competing through state and national contests, the interview and live-auction portions of the World Livestock Auctioneer Championship, and how winning in 2011 transformed his career. With new opportunities came an intense travel schedule, forcing Charly to eventually learn one of the hardest lessons of his career: when to say no and make more time for his family.

Kaid and Charly also dive into the responsibility auctioneers carry on sale day. Every animal represents years of work, genetics, management, and financial investment. Charly explains why knowing the true value of the cattle, staying composed during “slick spots,” and treating every buyer with respect can make a tremendous difference. Those relationships often extend for years, turning customers and sale hosts into friends and family.

Finally, Charly shares his vision for better beef, emphasizing animal care, nutrition, veterinary health, safe handling, stewardship, genetics, technology, and continuous improvement. It’s a conversation about much more than auctioneering—it’s about cattle, family, integrity, rural communities, and the people committed to moving the beef industry forward.

For previous episodes of the Better Beef Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.

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In this episode of Better Beef, host Kaid Panek sits down with lifelong Indiana cattle producer and agricultural leader Donnie Lawson for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, advocacy, collaboration, and the future of the beef industry. Donnie brings a unique perspective to the discussion, balancing life as a cattle producer with his responsibilities as a county commissioner and member of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Board of Directors. 

Donnie shares the story of his family’s Indiana operation, where they raise crops, manage a cow-calf herd, feed cattle, and market freezer beef directly to customers. He explains how careful recordkeeping and following cattle from birth through finishing have helped the family make better management decisions. The conversation also highlights the role FFA and 4-H played in developing leadership, financial responsibility, agricultural knowledge, and confidence for Donnie and his family.

From there, the discussion turns to Donnie’s decades of public service. He reflects on nearly 40 years as a volunteer firefighter and EMT, his path into county government, and the importance of bringing an agricultural perspective to decisions involving rural communities, infrastructure, development, and land use.

A major focus of the episode is Donnie’s involvement with NCBA. He explains how the organization brings cattle producers together, develops future leaders, advocates for the beef industry, and builds relationships with policymakers in Washington. Donnie also discusses his work with NCBA’s political action committee and why supporting policymakers who understand cattle production requires cooperation across party lines.

Throughout the conversation, Donnie and Kaid emphasize the importance of collaboration within agriculture. Whether discussing direct-to-consumer beef, large feedlots, animal health, manure management, environmental stewardship, or public misconceptions about cattle production, Donnie encourages producers to communicate rather than criticize.

Ultimately, this episode is about more than cattle or policy. It is a conversation about service, relationships, leadership, and the responsibility producers have to tell agriculture’s story. Donnie reminds listeners that meaningful progress often begins by asking questions, sharing experiences, listening to different perspectives, and working together to strengthen the entire beef industry.

For previous episodes of the Better Beef Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.

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In this episode of Better Beef, host Kaid Panek sits down with Nick Pudenz, Director of Commercial Accounts at Diamond Animal Health, for a behind-the-scenes look at an important part of the beef industry most cattle producers rarely see: the development and manufacturing of animal vaccines and pharmaceuticals. Nick explains how Diamond Animal Health works with pharmaceutical companies, researchers, veterinarians, and industry partners to transform new ideas into products that support cattle health and the global food supply. 

Nick walks listeners through the surprisingly complex process of developing a new cattle vaccine, which can take five to seven years from initial research to government approval. The conversation explores efficacy and safety trials, USDA oversight, master vaccine seeds, regulatory requirements, and the extensive quality-control measures required before a product ever reaches a producer's refrigerator.

Kaid and Nick also discuss why vaccination protocols matter throughout the beef production cycle. From cow-calf operations to feedlots, different cattle face different health challenges, making properly designed vaccination programs an important component of herd management. Nick explains the differences between modified-live and killed vaccines, why products require specific storage and handling, and how manufacturers monitor temperature and quality throughout production and distribution.

The conversation also tackles topics that matter to producers and consumers alike, including pharmaceutical withdrawal periods, food safety, vaccine misconceptions, emerging technologies, and why animal health companies continue investing millions of dollars into products that may never ultimately reach the marketplace. Nick provides insight into the safeguards, testing, documentation, and regulatory review behind the products producers rely on every day.

Ultimately, this episode offers cattlemen a new perspective on the people working behind the scenes to keep livestock healthy. Whether you're a cow-calf producer, feedlot operator, veterinarian, or simply interested in how animal health products are developed, this conversation provides an approachable look at the science, people, and processes supporting better beef.

For previous episodes of the Better Beef Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.

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In this episode of Better Beef, Kaid Panek sits down with Jennifer Boka, Senior Director of Livestock Operations for the National Western Stock Show, to explore her lifelong connection to agriculture and her vision for the future of the livestock industry. 

Jennifer Boka shares how growing up on her family’s registered and commercial cattle operation, participating in 4-H and FFA, judging livestock, rodeoing, and working in the artificial insemination industry prepared her for a remarkable career. Her professional journey includes serving as communications director for the Red Angus Association of America, managing the Northern International Livestock Exposition in Billings, Montana, for nine years, and eventually joining the National Western team in Denver.

The conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to organize one of agriculture’s most historic events. Jennifer discusses the responsibility of preserving 121 years of National Western tradition while introducing new facilities, experiences, and programs designed to carry the stock show into its next century. She explains how attractions such as the Stockyards Beef and Wine Festival and Itty Bitty Acres help connect urban visitors with farmers, ranchers, livestock, and the food they produce. Her guiding philosophy is simple but powerful: agriculture must educate through entertainment.

Jennifer and Kaid also examine the National Western’s legendary Catch-a-Calf program, which gives young exhibitors the opportunity to raise, feed, market, and show a steer while developing financial, communication, and recordkeeping skills. More importantly, these young people build lifelong relationships within agriculture. Jennifer emphasizes that stock shows are about far more than leading an animal around the ring—they help raise capable young adults, cultivate leadership, and create networks that can last a lifetime.

Throughout the episode, Jennifer speaks candidly about welcoming new audiences, embracing cultural change, and celebrating anyone who wants to connect with the Western way of life. She also reflects on the pressure, honor, and privilege of representing livestock producers while educating the public.

For anyone interested in agriculture, livestock events, youth development, or the future of stock shows, this conversation provides an inspiring look at the people and ideas keeping agricultural traditions alive. Jennifer closes with valuable advice: seize every opportunity to meet people, introduce yourself, get your hands dirty, and experience every possible facet of agriculture.

For previous episodes of the Better Beef Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.

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In this episode of Better Beef, host Kaid Panek travels to Blair Brothers Angus near Sturgis, South Dakota, to sit down with Britton Blair for a conversation about seedstock production, genetic improvement, conservation, and what it takes to build one of the nation's most respected Angus programs. From humble beginnings in the late 1980s, Blair Brothers Angus has grown into a premier operation marketing more than 500 Angus bulls annually through private treaty sales, earning a reputation built on consistency, customer relationships, and proven performance. 

Britton shares how his family's commitment to collecting real-world performance data has shaped their breeding philosophy. Rather than focusing solely on maternal traits or carcass characteristics, Blair Brothers strives to produce balanced cattle that perform throughout every stage of the beef supply chain—from the ranch to the feedlot to the consumer's plate. By retaining ownership of cattle, purchasing calves back from customers, and evaluating feedlot performance and carcass quality, the operation continually refines its genetics using measurable results.

The discussion explores the importance of long-term planning in seedstock production, emphasizing that every breeding decision influences the next generation of cattle. Britton explains how carefully selected sires, disciplined culling practices, and decades of customer feedback have allowed the operation to build a predictable, reliable genetic program trusted by commercial cattlemen across the country.

Kaid and Britton also discuss the realities of managing cattle in a drought-prone environment, highlighting early weaning as one of the most effective management tools for maintaining cow body condition while preserving valuable genetics. Rather than liquidating herds during challenging years, Blair Brothers focuses on adapting management strategies that protect both their cattle and their long-term breeding program.

Beyond the ranch, Britton shares his involvement in local economic development and the South Dakota Cattlemen's Association, underscoring the importance of agricultural advocacy and producer engagement. The conversation reinforces the idea that cattle producers must actively tell their story, participate in industry organizations, and work together to shape the future of beef production.

Whether you're a commercial cattle producer, seedstock breeder, or simply passionate about the beef industry, this episode offers valuable insights into genetics, stewardship, business relationships, and the long-term vision required to build a successful and respected cattle operation.

For previous episodes of the Better Beef Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.

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In this episode of Better Beef, host Kaid Panek sits down with Bradie Jill Anderson—agriculture advocate, entrepreneur, former Miss Rodeo Utah, Cowgirl Magazine 30 Under 30 honoree, and national finalist in the American Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Discussion Meet. Together, they explore what it means to represent modern agriculture while preserving the traditions that have shaped the industry for generations. 

Bradie shares her journey from growing up in rural Utah to building Romestead Ranch in southeast Idaho, where she and her husband are creating a first-generation ranching operation centered on direct-to-consumer beef and bison. She discusses the challenges of entering agriculture without an established family ranch, emphasizing the importance of persistence, humility, and finding mentors willing to share their knowledge.

The conversation also dives into the role of the American Farm Bureau and the Discussion Meet competition, where Bradie explains how young agricultural leaders collaborate to address pressing issues such as farmland loss, sustainability, water management, and public understanding of agriculture. She highlights the value of respectful dialogue and the need for producers to proactively tell their stories before others define agriculture for them.

Kaid and Bradie discuss the growing influence of social media as a tool for educating consumers about ranching, rodeo, and food production. From misconceptions about livestock care to explaining where beef comes from, they stress that authentic storytelling helps bridge the gap between producers and consumers while building trust in an increasingly disconnected world.

Listeners also get a behind-the-scenes look at Bradie's experiences guiding horseback hunting trips through the Rocky Mountains, working with livestock, and balancing entrepreneurship with life in the West. Throughout the episode, the pair reflects on the grit, resilience, and lifelong learning required to succeed in agriculture.

Whether you're a rancher, producer, outdoor enthusiast, or simply curious about where your food comes from, this episode offers an inspiring conversation about leadership, mentorship, and the future of agriculture. Bradie's message is clear: don't be afraid to ask questions, embrace challenges, and pursue opportunities that seem impossible—because that's often where the greatest growth begins.

For previous episodes of the Better Beef Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.

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Welcome back to the Better Beef Podcast. Just ahead, we have Kaid Panek and he chats with registered dietitian, Emma Smith about beef's role in your diet. In this episode, Emma explains that diet guidelines are revised every five years and shape not only public recommendations but also institutional programs such as school lunches, senior meal programs, and daycares. While headlines emphasize a return to “real” and less processed foods with an inverted food pyramid graphic, she notes that the core message—fewer ultra-processed foods and less added sugar—has been consistent for years. Recent changes include increased recommended protein intake and some adjustments to fat recommendations, though these guidelines are designed for the generally healthy population rather than individuals with specific conditions. 

The discussion explores food deserts and the practical challenges of accessing fresh, minimally processed foods in both rural and urban contexts. Emma illustrates how distance, transportation, price disparities, and neighborhood infrastructure can force reliance on ultra-processed options, even for people who want to eat “closer to the ground.”

On beef specifically, Emma acknowledges modest nutritional differences between grass-finished and grain-fed beef, particularly in omega-3 content and fatty acid ratios, but emphasizes that affordability, values, and access should guide consumer choices. She encourages focusing on overall dietary patterns rather than moralizing individual foods, recommending leaner cuts for everyday consumption while reserving richer options for special occasions.

The conversation also critiques marketing language such as “natural” and “antibiotic-free,” highlighting how labels can mislead consumers and exploit limited nutrition knowledge. Emma encourages more transparency and education from the beef industry, including honest discussion of antibiotics, environmental impact, and continual efforts to improve practices. Both host and guest conclude that progress lies in nuanced communication, realistic guidance, and helping consumers make the best choices possible within their own circumstances rather than framing decisions as simply right or wrong.

For previous episodes of the Better Beef Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.

American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:

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