Cattle Connect

Host Kayla Greer dives into a critical topic for today’s tech-savvy farmers: cybersecurity in agriculture. Joining her is Amanda Senn, Director of the Alabama Securities Commission, who shares expert insight on how digital threats are shaping the future of farming.

From mobile devices in the field to desktops in the office, your farm’s data is a valuable asset—and a potential target. Amanda unpacks the risks and delivers practical, actionable strategies to help you protect your personal information, farm records, and connected systems.

Whether you're managing smart equipment or storing sensitive data, this episode will help you stay a step ahead of cyber threats. Tune in and learn how to safeguard your farm’s future in a connected, fast-moving digital world.

Alabama cattle producers are known for showing up and showing out when it comes to education about the beef industry! Host Josie Jones is joined in studio by Geneva County producer Nikki Dyess to discuss Geneva County's impressive October Beef Month win - The Heart of Beef Month award - and the youth education initiatives through local schools to enhance food literacy and appreciation for beef production among students that got them there. From exciting events like the Career Tech Chili Cook-Off to the unique Beef Banquet, these programs empower youth participation and build community connections year-round. Tune in to find out how these initiatives are inspiring the next generation of agricultural enthusiasts and how other county chapters can take advantage of community partnerships to extend similar opportunities. 

In this episode of the Cattle Connect podcast, the 'Marketing Your Farm' series continues by exploring the logistics of selling beef at local markets. Host Josie Jones is joined by guest, Don Wombles from the Department of Agriculture and the Farmers Market Authority, to share valuable insights into the rules and requirements for farmers looking to market their beef directly to consumers.

The conversation includes essential licenses and certifications needed, the importance of USDA-approved processing facilities, and tips for maintaining food safety. Learn how programs like the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program have revolutionized market dynamics in Alabama.

Whether you're a seasoned farmer or new to the market scene, this episode provides practical advice and encouragement to help you succeed in selling beef safely and profitably.

What do networking opportunities, forage research projects, carcass fabrication demonstrations, and youth livestock shows have in common? The Alabama Beef Checkoff Program! Hear from 2025 Alabama Beef Checkoff Council Chairman Steven Smith on this year’s priorities for Beef Checkoff programming, while host Josie Jones gives an overview of the history of Beef Checkoff Programs across the US and the important role they play in a sustainable beef industry. 

New positions and new priorities take a foothold at the Alabama Cattlemen's Association as a season of change invites staff transitions and new hires! Host Kayla Greer sits down with ACA Executive Vice President Erin Beasley to talk about those changes and the inspiration behind them. Following, the newest face at the ACA, Michael Smith, introduces himself and shares his vision for his role at Manager of Industry Outreach.

“I believe in the future of agriculture.” These first seven words of the FFA creed only begin to tell the story of The National FFA Organization and the effect it has on today’s youth and tomorrow’s leaders. Hot on the heels of Alabama’s 97th Annual FFA State Convention, Josie sat down with Mackenzie Smith - 2024-2025 Alabama FFA State Treasurer, AJCA member and Marshall County cattle showman - to discuss this great organization and the role it plays in strengthening Alabama’s beef industry. 

Grassroots advocates are the lifeblood of the ACA, and our Connect to the Cattlemen series is here to highlight their efforts! From steak sandwich sales, to beef donations and youth events, to scholarship presentations, county Cattlemen’s chapters often get creative on how to engage in the local community. In Franklin County, this means taking to social media video production, highlighting those in the community and tying it all back to the beef business! Listen in as host Kayla Greer chats with Caleb Beason of the Franklin County Cattlemen's Association, and check out their Facebook page to watch their videos today!

In a world where consumers are constantly bombarded with ads, influencer reviews, sales pitches and new products, building a brand that is easily recognizable can be key to a sustainable beef operation. Listen as host Josie Jones sits down with Kenny Woodham, owner of Sowega Meat Company, to discuss how consistency and quality have been integral in growing the direct-to-consumer facility. 

The New World Screwworm (NWS)— a parasitic pest eradicated from the U.S. in 1966— is climbing north from Panama, and getting a little too close to the homeland. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins closed the U.S./Mexican border for live imports of cattle, equine and bison for a second time this year as eradication protocols ramp up in Central and South America. Alabama State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier with the Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries joined host Erin Beasley in studio to discuss this pest and the measures it will take to keep it out of the U.S. cowherd.

As of Wednesday, May 14, the final gavel of the 2025 Alabama Legislative Session has fallen! ACA lobbyists Erin Beasley and Kayla Greer gathered in the Cattle Connect studio after the motion to adjourn “Sine Die,” and the duo debriefed some of the milestone moments from the past 105 days in the State House.