CattleUSA Daily

On today’s episode of the podcast, Lauren is joined by meteorologist Gary Lezak to discuss the weather extremes developing across cattle country as summer rapidly approaches. While some areas are dealing with excessive rainfall and flooded fields, others continue searching for drought relief. Gary breaks down the evolving summer weather pattern, severe storm risks, hay production concerns, heat stress potential, and why a major heat event remains on his radar for early August. The conversation also explores how changing weather patterns could impact cattle producers, crop farmers, and forage production throughout the remainder of the growing season.

Links:

Weather 20/20 Dashboard Discount⁠ - https://www.weather2020.com/partner/cattle-usa
Substack - https://weather2020.substack.com/
The Global Predictor App ⁠- ⁠https://www.weather2020.com/global-predictor-mobile-app
Youtube⁠ -https://www.youtube.com/@Weather2020
Follow Gary on X ⁠- https://x.com/glezak 
CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m
⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamedia
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/
Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusa.shop/products/cattleusa-drive-premium-daily-newsletter?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&brid=YWdncwFNXt0EmdzFy5cJJBp84J9g
CattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/
Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/
Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@Showboatmediaco
The Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/

Key Takeaways:

• Rainfall has been excessive across portions of the Midwest and Corn Belt.
• Drought conditions remain a concern in parts of the western plains.
• The weather pattern currently developing resembles one seen last fall.
• Severe weather risks remain elevated through mid-June.
• Summer's arrival will bring shifts in the jet stream and precipitation patterns.
• Early August continues to stand out as a potential period for significant heat stress.
• Hay production and field conditions are becoming challenges in overly wet regions.
• Producers should continue monitoring both moisture and heat as summer develops

Chapters:

00:00 Rainfall extremes across cattle country

04:00 Why today's weather pattern resembles last October

08:00 Drought concerns and summer moisture outlook

11:00 Severe weather and tornado season update

14:00 Heat stress concerns for cattle producers

17:00 What producers should watch heading into summer

Gary Lezak, weather forecast, summer weather outlook, cattle country weather, agriculture weather, drought conditions, drought monitor, severe weather forecast, tornado season, heat stress, cattle producers, ranching weather, farming forecast, Weather 2020, LRC weather model, rainfall forecast, Midwest weather, Great Plains weather, Corn Belt weather, flooded fields, hay production, forage conditions, pasture management, grazing conditions, crop weather, agricultural forecasting, long range weather forecast, summer heat wave, livestock weather, cattle industry weather, ranch management, beef industry, weather trends, agriculture podcast, cattle podcast, drought relief, severe storms, early August heat wave

On today’s episode of the podcast, Lauren is joined by Dr. Cheryl DeVuyst of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board to discuss how consumer expectations are changing and what that means for the future of beef demand. From the refresh of the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. campaign to summer grilling season, digital marketing, retail partnerships, and family traditions, Cheryl shares why consumers are increasingly looking for more than just a meal—they're looking for an experience. The conversation explores how the beef industry is connecting with today's consumers, building trust, and creating the memories that keep beef at the center of the tableLinks:If you’d like to read the latest Impact Report or subscribe to The Drive, visit DrivingDemandforBeef.com.Route 66: https://www.kansasbeef.org/programs-e...Beef Recipes: https://www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com/ CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m
⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/
CattleUSA App IOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cattleusa/id1673147759
CattleUSA App Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.edgarmcbee.cusamobile&pcampaignid=web_share
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamedia
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/
Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusa.shop/products/cattleusa-drive-premium-daily-newsletter?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&brid=YWdncwFNXt0EmdzFy5cJJBp84J9g
CattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/
Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/
Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@Showboatmediaco
The Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways:- Today's consumers are looking for experiences, not just products.- The Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand is evolving to meet modern consumer habits.- Summer grilling season remains one of the most important drivers of beef demand.- Beef checkoff investments help keep beef visible across retail, foodservice, and digital platforms.- Family meals and grilling traditions create lasting connections to beef.- Convenience and digital shopping continue to shape consumer purchasing decisions.- Strong partnerships throughout the supply chain help keep beef top of mind.- Consumer demand for beef remains strong and resilient.Chapters: 00:00 Cheryl's trip to Greece and global perspectives on beef04:30 The Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. refresh09:00 Building relationships through the beef checkoff14:00 Reaching consumers in a digital-first world18:00 Summer grilling season and creating demand22:00 Why consumers buy experiences, not just meals26:00 The future of beef marketing and consumer outreachCheryl DeVuyst, Cattlemen's Beef Board, Beef It's What's For Dinner, beef checkoff, beef marketing, beef demand, consumer behavior, consumer trends, beef consumers, grilling season, summer grilling, beef promotion, beef advocacy, cattle industry, beef industry, family meals, food experiences, consumer trust, retail beef sales, digital marketing, beef recipes, beef education, beef outreach, restaurant partnerships, Texas Roadhouse, Walmart, Costco, McDonald's, foodservice, beef demand drivers, protein consumption, grilling culture, beef producers, cattle producers, beef sales, agriculture marketing, consumer engagement, agriculture podcast

On today’s episode of the podcast, Lauren is joined by South Texas rancher Allie Fillingim for a boots-on-the-ground conversation about New World Screwworm and what cattle producers should really be paying attention to right now. Located just outside of San Antonio, Allie shares how ranchers in her region are approaching the situation, what practical management changes they're making, and why preparation matters more than panic. The discussion covers herd health, fly control, biosecurity, veterinary partnerships, land stewardship, and the importance of staying informed as the situation continues to develop. Most importantly, Allie offers a grounded perspective on how producers can focus on what they can control while supporting one another through another challenge facing the cattle industry.Links:Allie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allie-fillingim-m-s-pmp-25057b210/CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/CattleUSA App IOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cattleusa/id1673147759CattleUSA App Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.edgarmcbee.cusamobile&pcampaignid=web_shareFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamediaInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusa.shop/products/cattleusa-drive-premium-daily-newsletter?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&brid=YWdncwFNXt0EmdzFy5cJJBp84J9gCattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ShowboatmediacoThe Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/Key Takeaways:- South Texas producers are focused on preparation, not panic.- New World Screwworm is a serious issue, but it is manageable with proper protocols.- Daily observation and early detection are critical for cattle producers.- Veterinarians remain one of the most important resources for producers.- Fly control, parasite management, and biosecurity all play a role in prevention.- Land stewardship and grazing management can support overall herd health.- New World Screwworm is not a food safety concern for beef consumers.- The cattle industry continues to come together during times of uncertainty.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Allie's ranching background03:00 What producers near the border are saying about Screwworm07:00 Practical management changes ranchers are making10:00 Separating legitimate concerns from media panic14:00 Building a ranch-specific response plan18:00 Land stewardship, grazing, and fly control21:00 Why consumers shouldn't fear beef safety23:00 Community, resilience, and supporting fellow producersNew World Screwworm, Screwworm Texas, South Texas ranching, Allie Fillingim, cattle producers, cattle health, livestock health, ranch management, cattle industry, beef industry, fly control, parasite control, biosecurity, herd health, veterinary medicine, cattle operations, regenerative agriculture, land stewardship, grazing management, rotational grazing, pasture management, Texas cattle producers, cattle ranching, beef production, livestock management, ranch resilience, cattle industry news, USDA Screwworm, animal health, cattle producer resources, cattle country, livestock industry, beef safety, ranching podcast, agriculture podcast, cattle operation management, emergency management, crisis preparedness

On today’s episode of the podcast, Lauren is joined by Samantha Cozza-Wright to discuss another wild week in the cattle market following the confirmation of New World Screwworm in the United States. Samantha breaks down how the market reacted, why traders continue to chase headlines, and whether the recent selloff was justified or simply another example of volatility taking over. The conversation also covers feeder cattle prices, drought-related cattle movement, consumer demand, packer leverage, and the importance of risk management as producers prepare for the second half of the year.

Connect with Samantha:Email - [email protected] Phone - 785-940-5533

Links:

CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m
⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/
CattleUSA App IOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cattleusa/id1673147759
CattleUSA App Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.edgarmcbee.cusamobile&pcampaignid=web_share
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamedia
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/
Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusa.shop/products/cattleusa-drive-premium-daily-newsletter?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&brid=YWdncwFNXt0EmdzFy5cJJBp84J9g
CattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/
Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/
Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@Showboatmediaco
The Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/

Key Takeaways:

• Confirmation of New World Screwworm sparked another sharp reaction in the cattle market
• Samantha believes the market significantly overreacted to the news
• Closed southern borders continue to support cattle prices and long-term supply fundamentals
• Feeder cattle markets remain extremely volatile and headline-driven
• Early cattle movement caused by drought could impact beef supplies later this year
• Cash cattle prices remain relatively strong despite recent board weakness
• Producers are increasingly focused on risk management and protecting profits
• Consumer demand will continue to play a major role in market direction this summer

Chapters:

00:00 Weather across cattle country and market recap

03:00 New World Screwworm confirmed in Texas

07:00 Why the market reacted so aggressively

12:00 Feeder cattle volatility and headline trading

16:00 Risk management and protecting profitability

20:00 Drought, cattle movement, and fall market concerns

24:00 Consumer demand, packers, and the road ahead

Samantha Cozza-Wright, cattle market update, cattle market news, New World Screwworm, screwworm Texas, cattle prices, feeder cattle market, feeder cattle prices, live cattle futures, cattle futures, livestock markets, cattle industry, cattle producers, ranching, beef industry, beef demand, cattle volatility, commodity markets, cattle risk management, LRP insurance, drought and cattle, cattle cycle, cow calf producers, livestock marketing, packer margins, cash cattle market, cattle economics, agricultural markets, beef production, cattle market analysis, livestock industry, cattle country news, ranch management, cattle market outlook, cattle trading, agriculture podcast

On today’s episode of the podcast, Lauren is joined by Montana State University Extension Beef Cattle Specialist Dr. Megan Van Emon to discuss the research shaping the future of the beef industry. From GPS ear tags and virtual fencing technology to drought management, feed efficiency, record keeping, and cow herd profitability, Megan shares how producers can use both new technology and proven management practices to make better decisions. The conversation also explores how Extension bridges the gap between research and ranching, helping producers apply science-backed solutions to real-world challenges.

Links:

Dr. Megan Van Emon: https://animalrange.montana.edu/directory/faculty/1675579/megan-van-emon

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-van-emon-7927693b/

CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m
⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/
CattleUSA App IOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cattleusa/id1673147759
CattleUSA App Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.edgarmcbee.cusamobile&pcampaignid=web_share
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamedia
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/
Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusa.shop/products/cattleusa-drive-premium-daily-newsletter?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&brid=YWdncwFNXt0EmdzFy5cJJBp84J9g
CattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/
Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/
Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@Showboatmediaco
The Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/

Key Takeaways:

• GPS ear tags and virtual fencing are creating new opportunities for cattle management
• Technology can help producers better understand grazing behavior and pasture utilization
• Drought planning remains one of the biggest challenges facing cattle producers
• There is no one-size-fits-all management strategy for every operation
• Record keeping is one of the most valuable tools producers can utilize
• Cow efficiency goes beyond feed efficiency and starts with reproductive performance
• Strategic supplementation can improve herd performance while controlling costs
• Producers should focus on cattle that fit their environment and management style

Chapters:

00:00 Megan Van Emon's journey into beef cattle research

05:15 GPS ear tags, virtual fencing, and emerging ranch technology

10:20 Drought management and producer decision-making

15:00 Nitrate toxicity research and feed challenges

18:30 What actually makes an efficient cow?

23:00 Nutrition, supplementation, and controlling input costs

26:00 Record keeping, culling decisions, and long-term profitability

30:00 Bridging the gap between research and real-world ranching

Megan Van Emon, Montana State University, beef cattle research, GPS ear tags, virtual fencing, cattle technology, precision livestock management, grazing management, drought management, ranch management, beef cattle extension, cattle producers, feed efficiency, cow efficiency, cattle nutrition, supplementation strategies, record keeping, cattle profitability, cow-calf operations, replacement heifers, grazing behavior, pasture management, livestock technology, nitrate toxicity, cattle research, beef industry, ranching, cattle management, livestock production, cattle genetics, reproductive efficiency, Extension education, Montana ranching, cattle operation management, beef production, agriculture podcast

On today's episode of the podcast, Lauren is joined once again by the one and only Gary Lezak to discuss the major weather pattern developing across much of cattle country and why the next two weeks could have a significant impact on the rest of the summer. Gary breaks down recent rainfall, ongoing drought concerns, severe weather potential, summer heat forecasts, and what producers should be watching as we move deeper into June.

Links:

Weather 20/20 Dashboard Discount⁠ - https://www.weather2020.com/partner/cattle-usa
Substack - https://weather2020.substack.com/
The Global Predictor App ⁠- ⁠https://www.weather2020.com/global-predictor-mobile-app
Youtube⁠ -https://www.youtube.com/@Weather2020
Follow Gary on X ⁠- https://x.com/glezak 
CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m
⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamedia
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/
Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusa.shop/products/cattleusa-drive-premium-daily-newsletter?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&brid=YWdncwFNXt0EmdzFy5cJJBp84J9g
CattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/
Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/
Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@Showboatmediaco
The Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/

Key Takeaways:

• Recent rains have improved conditions across much of the Midwest and Plains
• Drought remains a concern in parts of the western U.S.
• The next two weeks could play a major role in shaping summer weather patterns
• Additional rainfall opportunities are expected for portions of cattle country
• A significant heat event is still possible later this summer
• Gary shares his latest thoughts on El Niño and hurricane season

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

01:00 Current drought conditions and recent rainfall

03:00 Understanding the LRC weather cycle

05:00 Why weather patterns are repeating themselves

07:00 Rainfall outlook for the Midwest and Corn Belt

09:00 Summer weather shifts and changing precipitation patterns

10:30 Preparing for a potential August heat wave

12:00 Drought outlook for the Plains and Western states

13:00 Severe weather risks during the first half of June

15:00 What producers should watch over the next two weeks

16:30 El Niño hype versus reality

18:00 Hurricane season outlook

19:00 Final thoughts and weather resources

Gary Lezak, weather forecast, agriculture weather, cattle country weather, summer forecast, June storm pattern, severe weather outlook, drought conditions, drought forecast, cattle producers, ranching weather, farming forecast, LRC weather model, Weather 2020, summer heat wave, August heat wave, rainfall forecast, Corn Belt weather, Midwest weather, El Niño, hurricane season forecast, long-range weather forecast, agricultural forecasting, cattle operation planning, pasture conditions, grazing management, crop weather outlook, Kansas weather, Nebraska drought, Colorado drought, ranch management, agriculture podcast, cattle industry weather, weather trends, severe storms

On today’s episode of the podcast, Lauren is joined by John Campbell to discuss the breaking news that a case of New World Screwworm has officially been confirmed in South Texas. John breaks down what we know so far, what this means for cattle producers, how the USDA is responding, and why consumers should not panic about the safety of the beef supply. The conversation covers the biology of screwworm, the challenges large ranches may face if infestations spread, potential market reactions, and the importance of communicating accurate information as news of the confirmation continues to circulate across the country. As always, John brings his unique mix of insight, humor, and straight talk to one of the biggest cattle industry stories of the year.

Links:

CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m
⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/
CattleUSA App IOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cattleusa/id1673147759
CattleUSA App Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.edgarmcbee.cusamobile&pcampaignid=web_share
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamedia
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/
Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusa.shop/products/cattleusa-drive-premium-daily-newsletter?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&brid=YWdncwFNXt0EmdzFy5cJJBp84J9g
CattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/
Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/
Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@Showboatmediaco
The Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/

Key Takeaways:

• A New World Screwworm case has been confirmed in South Texas
• The confirmed case involves a single calf near the Texas-Mexico border
• USDA has implemented a quarantine zone and continues sterile fly releases
• Screwworm is a serious concern for cattle producers, especially large ranching operations
• Screwworm is not a food safety issue and does not impact beef quality
• Consumers do not need to be concerned about beef products entering the food supply
• Large ranches with extensive grazing systems face greater management challenges
• Ivermectin and other parasite control tools remain important prevention measures
• Market reaction will depend largely on media coverage and producer perception

Chapters:

02:00 Weekly cattle market update

06:00 Breaking news: Screwworm confirmed in Texas

08:00 What producers need to know right now

10:00 Understanding the screwworm life cycle

12:00 Why screwworm is not a food safety issue

15:00 John Campbell's "Screwworm for Dummies" segment

18:00 Challenges facing large ranches and cow-calf operations

20:00 USDA response and sterile fly program

22:00 How producers can protect their herds

24:00 Potential cattle market implications

26:00 Communicating with consumers and avoiding misinformation

new world screwworm, screwworm confirmed in Texas, Texas cattle industry, cattle market news, John Campbell, cattle producers, beef industry, livestock health, USDA screwworm response, sterile fly program, Texas ranching, cattle parasites, cattle disease management, cattle market update, livestock producers, cow calf operations, beef production, food safety, cattle ranching, ivermectin cattle, livestock health concerns, cattle industry news, agriculture podcast, beef supply chain, cattle market reaction, ranch management, livestock disease prevention, cattle operation management, South Texas ranching, cattle producer resources, beef consumer education, cattle country news

Samantha Cozza-Wright joins Lauren once again on today's episode for a deep dive into Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) and the major changes cattle producers need to understand heading into the 2026 coverage year. Samantha breaks down how LRP works, why more producers are using it to manage risk in today’s volatile cattle market, and how it compares to traditional futures and options strategies. She also explains new updates taking effect July 1, including expanded unborn calf coverage, beginning farmer benefits, drought exemptions, and other important policy changes that could impact cattle operations across the country.

Connect with Samantha:Email - [email protected] Phone - 785-940-5533

LinksCattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l...⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/CattleUSA App IOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cattleu...CattleUSA App Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...Facebook -   / cattleusamedia  Instagram -   / cattleusa.media  Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusa.shop/products/c...CattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/Lauren’s Instagram -   / _laurenmoylan  Lauren’s Youtube -    / @showboatmediaco  The Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/

• What Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) is and how it works
• How LRP helps protect cattle producers from downside market risk
• Why volatility makes risk management more important than ever
• The difference between LRP and futures/options trading
• How LRP premiums are subsidized through USDA programs
• New 2026 LRP updates taking effect July 1
• Expanded unborn calf coverage options
• Additional benefits for beginning farmers and ranchers
• Drought and natural disaster exemptions producers should understand
• Why protecting profitability matters even during record cattle prices

02:00 What is Livestock Risk Protection (LRP)?

05:00 How LRP protects cattle producers from market volatility

08:00 Understanding coverage dates, weights, and policy structure

11:00 How LRP settlements and claims actually work

16:00 Real-world example of an LRP payout

21:00 Understanding premium subsidies and producer savings

24:00 Why risk management matters in high-priced cattle markets

27:00 Major 2026 LRP updates explained

30:00 Expanded unborn calf coverage options

33:00 Beginning farmer and rancher subsidy changes

35:00 Drought exemptions and disaster provisions

38:00 Application deadlines and transfer requirements

41:00 Final thoughts and producer resources

livestock risk protection, LRP insurance, cattle risk management, Samantha Cozza-Wright, cattle market volatility, cattle insurance, feeder cattle, cow calf operations, cattle producers, risk management strategies, livestock insurance, feeder cattle prices, fed cattle, cattle markets, agriculture risk management, beginning farmer benefits, unborn calf coverage, drought protection, cattle profitability, ranch management, USDA programs, RMA insurance, livestock marketing, cattle futures, cattle industry, ranching, cattle operation management, agriculture podcast, beef industry, cattle prices, market protection, feeder cattle index, cattle economics, risk protection tools

On today’s episode of the podcast, Lauren is joined by Samantha Cozza-Wright for another cattle market update as volatility continues to dominate the conversation across cattle country. The two break down softer feeder cattle prices, uncertainty in the futures market, drought-driven calf movement, consumer beef demand, and the big question many producers are asking right now: are we actually expanding the U.S. cattle herd or simply maintaining it? Samantha also shares her thoughts on beef demand, market risk, and why producers need to be thinking strategically about protecting profitability in one of the most volatile cattle markets in history.

Connect with Samantha:Email - [email protected] Phone - 785-940-5533

CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m
⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/
CattleUSA App IOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cattleusa/id1673147759
CattleUSA App Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.edgarmcbee.cusamobile&pcampaignid=web_share
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamedia
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/
Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusa.shop/products/cattleusa-drive-premium-daily-newsletter?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&brid=YWdncwFNXt0EmdzFy5cJJBp84J9g
CattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/
Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/
Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@Showboatmediaco
The Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/

Key Takeaways:

• Volatility continues to be the defining theme of the cattle market
• Feeder cattle prices have softened after rapid spring rallies
• Futures markets remain disconnected from short-term cash market signals
• Consumer beef demand remains stronger than many expected
• Retail beef movement continues supporting the market
• New World Screwworm concerns remain on producers' radar
• Drought conditions are pushing more calves to market earlier than normal
• Questions remain about whether the U.S. cattle herd is truly expanding
• Cow slaughter continues trending lower while heifer retention increases
• Risk management becomes increasingly important as cattle values rise

Chapters:

01:30 Rainfall across cattle country and drought relief

03:00 Why cattle markets remain extremely volatile

05:00 Feeder cattle weakness and futures market concerns

07:00 New World Screwworm rumors and market implications

08:30 Cash cattle, packers, and beef demand

11:00 Why retail beef demand remains surprisingly strong

13:00 Early calf movement and drought pressure

15:00 Are we actually expanding the U.S. cattle herd?

17:00 Cow slaughter, heifer retention, and future supply

19:00 Why profitability still comes with major risk

21:00 Protecting cattle values in a volatile market

22:00 Final thoughts and market outlook

cattle market, cattle market update, Samantha Cozza-Wright, feeder cattle market, cattle futures, live cattle futures, cattle prices, beef demand, cattle industry, ranching, cow calf producers, drought and cattle, cattle herd expansion, heifer retention, cow slaughter, New World Screwworm, beef market outlook, feeder cattle prices, cattle volatility, risk management, LRP insurance, cattle producers, livestock markets, beef industry, ranch management, cattle market news, agriculture podcast, cattle cycle, beef demand outlook, cattle market analysis, livestock industry, U.S. cattle herd, cattle economics, ranching podcast, beef production

On today’s episode of the podcast, Lauren tackles one of the toughest realities facing cattle producers across the country: drought. More specifically, the decisions drought forces producers to make. From stocking rates and pasture management to culling decisions, body condition scores, feed costs, and cash flow, Lauren breaks down the mistakes that often cost ranches the most—not because they were made, but because they were delayed. This episode is a practical look at protecting your operation, preserving flexibility, and making difficult decisions before drought takes away your options.

Links:

CattleUSA Insurance - https://info.cattleusainsurance.com/l/1102253/2025-06-04/288f5m
⁠CattleUSA Website - https://www.cattleusa.com/
CattleUSA App IOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cattleusa/id1673147759
CattleUSA App Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.edgarmcbee.cusamobile&pcampaignid=web_share
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cattleusamedia
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cattleusa.media/
Subscribe to our newsletter - https://www.cattleusa.shop/products/cattleusa-drive-premium-daily-newsletter?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&brid=YWdncwFNXt0EmdzFy5cJJBp84J9g
CattleUSA Media - https://www.cattleusamedia.com/
Lauren’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_laurenmoylan/
Lauren’s Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@Showboatmediaco
The Next Generation Podcast Website - https://www.thenextgenag.com/

Key Takeaways:

• Drought is a trend, not a single event
• Waiting too long to act often creates the biggest losses
• Overstocking during drought can impact pasture productivity for years
• Early culling creates more flexibility and often better financial outcomes
• Feed costs must be evaluated against long-term production value
• Body condition loss today affects next year's calf crop
• Overgrazing damages both current and future forage production
• Protecting pasture health should remain a top priority
• Financial stress from drought can last years beyond the weather event itself
• The best operators focus on preserving options and flexibility

Chapters:

00:00 Why drought exposes decision-making

01:20 The danger of waiting for rain

03:10 Stocking rate mistakes and pasture damage

05:00 Why timing matters when culling cows

07:00 Feed costs versus herd reduction decisions

09:00 Body condition score and reproductive performance

11:00 The long-term cost of overgrazing

13:00 Financial pressure during drought

15:00 Emotional decision-making and common traps

17:00 How successful ranchers approach drought

19:00 The one question every producer should ask

21:00 Final thoughts on protecting options and flexibility

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