On this episode of Cattle Connect, Alabama State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier provides an update on the New World screwworm (NWS) — a parasitic fly whose larvae feed on living tissue of mammal hosts. He explains the fly's life cycle, past eradication efforts, current detections and response actions in Texas, available treatments, and how producers can spot and report suspicious cases.

Host Erin Beasley sits down with Matthew Durdin of the Alabama Farmers Federation to break down Alabama's intense primary season, explain key outcomes, and preview what's at stake in the November General Election.

They discuss notable wins like Corey Hill and Katherine Robertson, the surge in incumbent challenges, the role of grassroots outreach and candidate training, the impact of social media versus real-world relationships, and what voters should expect as campaigns shift toward November 3rd.

Behind the ACA's newest membership benefit with Watt Cattle Company's WW Livestock is a story that goes deeper than a discount. On this episode of Cattle Connect, host Michael Smith talks with Tyler Watt of Sumter County about growing up in the cattle business and the challenges he faced as a beef producer. Tyler shares how faith, family, a little endurance, and entrepreneurship helped him rebuild and support other producers today. 

If you or a farmer or rancher you know is struggling with mental health challenges, remember that help is available and you are not alone. Find resources through A Healthy You, A Healthy Farm at https://agi.alabama.gov/hyhf/.

In this episode of Cattle Connect, Erin Beasley talks with Dr. Hannah Ennis from the Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries about the state's meat inspection program. They cover inspection types, the inspection process from live animal checks to postmortem evaluation, labeling requirements, and resources for producers interested in direct-to-consumer sales.

In this election-focused episode of Cattle Connect, hosts Kayla Greer and Erin Beasley interview Alabama BeefPAC-backed candidates Wes Allen (Lieutenant Governor), Katherine Robertson (Attorney General) and Corey Hill (Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries). They discuss their backgrounds, priorities for the office and the role of state leadership in protecting Alabama agriculture.

Remember— the Primary Runoff Election is set for June 16. Be sure to get out and vote! 

On this episode of our Checking in on the Checkoff series, hosts Bailey Watson and Michael Smith review spring Alabama Beef Checkoff activities, including stockyard visits, regional meetings, and youth programs. They also recap the Beef 101 series, the kickoff of YCLP Class XII, and a NASCAR partnership promotion at Talladega.

The episode also highlights upcoming beef promotions, including summer grilling campaigns, and gives listeners a preview of what to expect at the 20th Annual AJCA Round-Up.

On this episode of Cattle Connect, hosts Kayla Greer and Erin Beasley preview the 2026 Regional Cattlemen's Conferences — five local events across the state featuring region-specific education, networking, and a membership dinner. Learn the dates and locations, hear what the Beef Systems Extension team is bringing for the educational line-up, and find out how to register at BamaBeef.org/Events.

Host Erin Beasley sits in studio with Dr. Maggie Justice to discuss heat stress in beef cattle— explaining why humid Alabama summer nights make heat a major hidden performance issue— and who is most at risk.The episode covers early warning signs, practical management strategies and points listeners to Alabama Extension resources.

Host Michael Smith and guest Mitchell Alexander, chairman of the Young Cattlemen's Leadership Program (YCLP) Council, discuss the YCLP, sharing how the program builds leadership, industry knowledge, and statewide networks for new and young cattle producers. The episode highlights YCLP alumni experiences, council work, the benefits of membership and networking, and introduces the incoming Class XIII, which kicks off next week in Montgomery!

Scholarship season is here, so what better time to revisit the past and hear from a previous Alabama Cattlemen's Foundation (ACF) Scholarship recipient? Listen as host Josie Jones visits with Alabama District 31 Senator Josh Carnley as he shares his journey from growing up on a Coffee County farm to receiving an ACF scholarship, building an agricultural career, and serving in the state senate. Learn how his impact on the next generation has extended far beyond three unique career fields through his passion for mentoring and the importance of exposing all youth to agriculture.