CattleUSA Daily

By CattleUSA | Lauren MoylanNews Daily News

CattleUSA Daily episodes

October 21, 2025 181: The Hidden Feed Waste Costing Producers Thousands
Feed waste might be the biggest expense ranchers don’t see coming. In this episode of the CattleUSA Daily Podcast, Lauren Moylan breaks down where feed loss really happens — from storage to the feed bunk — and how small management changes can save producers thousands. From improving hay storage and reducing trampling to tightening up feeding practices, she shares practical ways to stretch your feed budget and boost efficiency this winter.

Links
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.cattleusadrive.com/
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/

Takeaways
Feed is one of your biggest costs.
Wastage happens at every step.
Hay losses of 30 to 50% are common.
Fixing waste can fix your feed budget meaningfully.
Storage matters.
Reduce pulling and trampling of your hay.
Limit hay to one day or even less.
Mud and soil contamination degrade feed.
Smaller cattle shouldn't have to fight for feed.
Wasted feed is a hidden cost.

Chapters
00:00 Understanding Feed Waste and Its Impact
01:02 Identifying Loss Points in Feed Management
02:29 Effective Storage Solutions for Feed
03:36 Optimizing Feeding Practices
04:10 Site Preparation and Forage Quality
04:49 Common Pitfalls in Feed Management
05:45 Key Takeaways for Reducing Feed Waste

feed waste, cattle management, storage solutions, feeding practices, forage quality, cost reduction, cattle producers, hay management, feed efficiency, livestock care
7 min
October 20, 2025 180: Winter Forecast, Ice Storms, Drought and the LRC with Gary Lezak
October 15th isn’t just another date on the calendar — it’s the start of a new weather cycle. In this episode of the CattleUSA Daily Podcast, Lauren Moylan and meteorologist Gary Lezak break down the latest on the LRC (Lezak Recurring Cycle), the current drought outlook, and early signs of what this winter could bring. From the potential for ice storms to shifting jet streams, they explain how this month’s weather patterns are setting the tone for agriculture and daily life in the months ahead.

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.cattleusadrive.com/
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/

Takeaways
The LRC is crucial for understanding weather patterns.
October 15th marks a significant point in the weather cycle.
Current drought conditions vary across the U.S.
Predictions for winter weather are still developing.
Ice storms may be more likely this winter.
Accurate forecasts require detailed analysis, not just averages.
The importance of monitoring evolving weather patterns.
Drought conditions can impact agriculture significantly.
The jet stream's strength is increasing, affecting weather.
Future forecasts will be more detailed and accurate.

Chapters
00:00 Understanding the LRC and Current Weather Patterns
00:26 Implications of Drought and Winter Predictions
01:17 Introduction and Personal Updates
03:14 October Weather Patterns and Predictions
06:46 Drought Conditions and Their Impact
11:10 Understanding Ice Storm Predictions
13:59 Looking Ahead: Future Weather Events

weather patterns, LRC, drought, winter forecast, ice storms, October 15th, climate change, agriculture, weather forecasting, seasonal changes
17 min
October 17, 2025 179: Cattle Market Update and the Fight for Producer Independence with John Campbell
Cattle prices are climbing, but not every producer is seeing the benefit. In this episode of the CattleUSA Daily Podcast, Lauren Moylan and John Campbell unpack the latest market trends and the growing impact of vertical integration across the beef industry. They discuss how market concentration is squeezing independent producers, what it means for the future of food supply, and why it’s time for ranchers to take a stand for fair competition. From the sale barn to the Capitol, this episode digs into what’s really shaping the cattle market today.

Links
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.cattleusadrive.com/
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/

Takeaways
The cattle market has seen consistent price increases this week.
Vertical integration is leading to a concentration of power in the food supply.
Independent producers are facing significant challenges due to market monopolies.
Producers need to be proactive in voicing their concerns to representatives.
The current market dynamics are influenced by weather and feed availability.
There is a need for a more balanced approach to food production and supply.
The concentration of the market can lead to vulnerabilities in food security.
Producers should engage in discussions beyond local coffee shops to effect change.
The importance of self-sustainability in the agricultural sector is paramount.
The future of independent producers depends on restoring competition in the market.

Chapters
00:00 Market Trends and Insights
10:32 Vertical Integration in the Food Industry

cattle market, livestock auction, vertical integration, food supply, independent producers, market trends, beef industry, agriculture, commodity prices, livestock sales
36 min
October 16, 2025 178: The Cattle Market Rally We Didn't See Coming and the Feeder Cattle Market Push with Dan Gerhold
Feeder cattle prices are on the rise, corn yields are slipping, and producers are adjusting fast. In this episode of the CattleUSA Daily Podcast, Dan Gerhold breaks down the latest market movements across cattle and grain, explaining what’s driving strong feeder demand and why many farmers are selling calves earlier than usual. With harvest season in full swing and uncertainty in the corn market, this episode delivers the insights producers need to make sense of shifting prices, capital challenges, and the outlook heading into winter.

Links
Watch on Youtube - https://youtu.be/4Q9h9-_OarA
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.cattleusadrive.com/
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/

Takeaways
The cattle market has seen a significant rally recently, with feeder prices increasing.
Demand for feeder cattle is strong, driven by limited foreign supply.
Farmers are selling calves earlier than usual due to market pressures.
Capital challenges are affecting farmers' ability to invest in cattle feeding.
The corn crop this year is disappointing compared to last year, impacting prices.
There is potential for corn prices to rally, but uncertainty remains.
Farmers are looking to add value through cattle as corn prices struggle.
The market is reacting unpredictably, often contrary to expectations.
Interest in feeder cattle is expected to remain strong through the winter.
The overall agricultural economy is facing challenges, but opportunities exist.

Chapters
00:00 Harvest Season Insights
04:11 Market Trends and Price Movements
06:50 Feeder Cattle Demand and Supply Dynamics
09:57 Capital Challenges in the Cattle Market
12:35 Corn Market Overview and Future Predictions

cattle markets, feeder cattle, corn market, harvest season, livestock trends, commodity prices, agricultural economics, market predictions, cattle feeding, livestock demand
17 min
October 15, 2025 177: Culling Decisions That Could Save Your Operation Thousands
Culling isn’t just about removing cows — it’s about protecting profit. In this episode of the CattleUSA Daily Podcast, Lauren Moylan breaks down the economics behind herd management decisions, helping producers identify when it’s time to let certain cows go. From open or aging females to chronic health problems and rising feed costs, she explains how to make culling a strategic, data-driven decision instead of an emotional one. Whether you’re managing replacements or trying to stretch feed through winter, this episode will help you make smarter, more profitable choices for your operation.

Links
Watch on Youtube - https://youtu.be/FsIEN5O8DfY
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.cattleusadrive.com/
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/

Takeaways
Culling is a vital economic decision in herd management.
Coal cows can account for 15-30% of total revenue.
Holding onto non-productive cows wastes resources.
Open cows are a primary candidate for culling.
Age and declining productivity affect cow efficiency.
Chronic health issues can signal the need for culling.
Calf performance is a key indicator of cow productivity.
Rising feed costs necessitate timely culling decisions.
Strategic culling involves setting target rates and tracking data.
Culling decisions should focus on profitability and efficiency.

culling, herd management, cow efficiency, economic decisions, cattle farming, profitability, cow-calf operations, feed costs, replacement heifers, market timing
6 min
October 14, 2025 176: How to Make Winter Protein Supplementation Pay Off
Winter feeding season is right around the corner — and protein costs can make or break your bottom line. In this episode of the CattleUSA Daily Podcast, Lauren Moylan breaks down how to make protein supplementation pencil out for your operation. From testing forage and understanding crude protein levels to calculating cost per nutrient, this episode gives producers the tools to feed smarter, not just more. Whether you’re evaluating tubs, cubes, or liquid feed, Lauren shares practical strategies to boost herd health, stretch feed budgets, and keep winter feeding efficient.

Links
Watch on Youtube - https://youtu.be/kSBVMPZecEY
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.cattleusadrive.com/
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/

Takeaways
Protein supplementation can be an investment or an expense.
Testing forage is essential to determine protein needs.
Cows need protein for rumen microbes to digest forage.
Not all operations require protein supplementation.
Cost per nutrient is more important than cost per ton.
Cows can handle protein every two to three days.
Managing access to feed is crucial for herd health.
Track costs per pound of gain or reproduction improvement.
Hold feed budgets tight if cows are in good condition.
Protein supplementation should be a strategic tool.

Chapters
00:00 Understanding Protein Supplementation Needs
02:50 Evaluating Forage Quality and Nutritional Requirements
05:07 Cost-Effective Supplementation Strategies

protein supplementation, cattle nutrition, forage quality, cost management, winter feeding, livestock management, crude protein, digestible nutrients, cattle health, feed budgeting
6 min
October 13, 2025 175: The Weather Pattern That Could Shape the Next Year for Agriculture with Gary Lezak
The Kansas City Chiefs might be struggling — and so is the rain. In this episode of the CattleUSA Daily Podcast, Lauren Moylan sits down with meteorologist Gary Lezak to talk about the latest LRC (Lezak Recurring Cycle), what it reveals about upcoming weather patterns, and how it could shape everything from drought outlooks to football Sundays. They connect the dots between climate, agriculture, and Kansas City’s forecast — on and off the field.

Links
Watch on youtube - https://youtu.be/pmqaG8AKPB4
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.cattleusadrive.com/
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/

Takeaways
The LRC is crucial for understanding weather patterns.
The Kansas City Chiefs are experiencing a challenging season.
Weather predictions can significantly impact agriculture.
Tracking weather events can help predict future patterns.
The current weather cycle is evolving and will drop in November.
Drought conditions are a concern for agricultural producers.
The importance of accurate weather forecasting for sports teams.
The interplay between weather patterns and climate phenomena like La Nina.
Understanding the LRC can empower individuals to forecast weather.
The next few weeks are critical for assessing rainfall and drought conditions.

LRC, weather predictions, Kansas City Chiefs, agriculture, meteorology, Gary Lezak, weather patterns, drought, climate, forecasting
19 min
October 10, 2025 174: Cattle Market Highs and the Impact of the Government Shutdown with Dan Gerhold
Feeder cattle prices are climbing, hog markets are struggling, and the grain trade is holding steady — it’s a busy week in commodities. In this episode of the CattleUSA Daily Podcast, Lauren Moylan and Dan Gerhold unpack the latest market movements, including the effects of the government shutdown, beef demand trends, and shifting supply dynamics. From bullish signals in cattle to the pressures in pork and grains, this episode gives producers a clear view of where the markets stand — and what to watch next.

Links
Watch on Youtube - https://youtu.be/r9OIk_OxV-c
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.cattleusadrive.com/
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/

Takeaways
Feeder cattle prices are reaching new highs, creating excitement in the market.
The fat cattle trade has been relatively stable but shows potential for growth.
Negative basis in cattle markets may indicate future deliveries against the board.
Open interest rising in a bull market is a positive sign for traders.
The government shutdown is affecting some market reports but not significantly impacting commodities.
Grain markets are experiencing sideways trading during harvest season.
The hog market is currently under pressure with high slaughter rates.
Consumer demand for beef has increased despite higher prices.
The dynamics of beef supply and demand are complex and evolving.
Future market predictions hinge on consumer behavior and seasonal trends.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Commodities Market
01:07 Current Trends in Cattle Markets
05:38 Impact of Government Shutdown on Market Data
08:36 Grain and Hog Market Overview
11:33 Consumer Demand for Beef and Market Predictions

commodities, cattle markets, beef demand, grain market, hog market, government shutdown, market trends, livestock, agriculture, trading
17 min
October 09, 2025 173: Cattle Market Update and the EID Tag Controversy with John Campbell
Prices are rising, tensions are building, and the conversation around EID tags is heating up. In this episode of the CattleUSA Daily Podcast, Lauren Moylan and John Campbell break down the latest livestock market update out of La Junta before diving into one of the most controversial topics in agriculture — the USDA’s push for mandatory EID tags. From data management concerns to the practical realities ranchers face in compliance, they explore what this means for producers on the ground and how the industry can prepare for future disease traceability and policy shifts.

Links
Watch on Youtube - https://youtu.be/1AmIYkeD20U
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.cattleusadrive.com/
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/

Takeaways
The livestock market in La Junta is showing resilience with price increases.
EID tags are a controversial topic among ranchers and the USDA.
Implementation of EID tags poses significant challenges for ranchers.
The USDA's approach to disease traceability is questioned by industry experts.
Ranchers feel their voices are not being heard in policy decisions.
There is a need for dedicated personnel to manage EID tag compliance.
The current EID system lacks a clear plan for data management and access.
Government mandates often overlook the practical realities faced by ranchers.
Collaboration between ranchers and government is essential for effective policy.
The livestock industry must prepare for potential disease outbreaks with better systems.

market update, livestock auctions, EID tags, USDA, disease traceability, agriculture, cattle industry, ranchers, compliance, livestock pricing
32 min
October 08, 2025 172: The Dollars Behind The Beef Checkoff with Terry Quam
What does the beef checkoff really do for producers — and is it worth the investment? In this episode of the CattleUSA Daily Podcast, Lauren Moylan sits down with Terry Quam, co-owner of Marda Angus Farm and longtime agricultural leader, to break down the financial side of the beef checkoff, including how funds are allocated and why ROI matters. Terry also shares stories from his decades of involvement in industry organizations, the importance of producer participation, and the community traditions that keep agriculture connected.

Links
Watch on Youtube - https://youtu.be/Pr4FXKlZ49k
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.cattleusadrive.com/
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/

Takeaways
Terry Quam is a co-owner of Marda Angus Farm LLC.
He emphasizes the importance of being active in agricultural organizations.
The beef checkoff starts its fiscal year on October 1.
Authorization requests for funding are crucial for beef promotion.
The return on investment for the beef checkoff is $13.41 for every dollar spent.
Terry has been involved in the Lodi Agricultural Fair for over 35 years.
Community involvement is essential for the future of agriculture.
Terry encourages producers to participate in industry discussions.
Family traditions around football include enjoying beef dishes.
Getting involved in agriculture can lead to rewarding experiences.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Terry Quam and Marda Angus Farm
06:51 Involvement in Agricultural Organizations and Leadership
13:19 Understanding the Beef Checkoff and Fiscal Year
17:01 Return on Investment and Impact of Checkoff Programs
21:27 Encouragement to Get Involved in the Industry

beef industry, cattle farming, beef checkoff, agriculture advocacy, financial management, investment return, family traditions, community involvement, leadership in agriculture
25 min

About CattleUSA Daily

From the publisher's feed

CattleUSA Daily delivers fast, factual insight into cattle markets, sale barn results, and beef industry trends across the U.S. Hosted by producers and professionals who live the business, each…