CattleUSA Daily

On today's episode of the podcast, Lauren breaks down one of the biggest misconceptions in the cattle business: that improving profitability always requires expansion. While adding more cows or more acres can grow an operation, the greatest return often comes from tightening the small inefficiencies already hiding within it. Lauren walks through a practical 10-point ranch efficiency audit, covering everything from feed management and hay waste to labor flow, grazing distribution, equipment utilization, and financial tracking. If you're looking to improve margins without dramatically changing your operation, this episode provides simple, actionable strategies that can have a lasting impact on your bottom line.

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:

• Small operational improvements often create the biggest financial gains
• Feeding accuracy can significantly reduce unnecessary feed costs
• Hay waste quietly drains thousands of dollars from many operations
• Unproductive cows consume resources without generating adequate returns
• Shorter calving seasons improve efficiency and marketing consistency
• Better labor flow saves valuable time and reduces daily inefficiencies
• Equipment should earn its keep—not simply take up space
• Proper grazing distribution maximizes forage production

Chapters:

00:00 Why expansion isn't always the answer to higher profits

02:20 Feeding accuracy and the hidden cost of overfeeding

05:15 Reducing hay waste and improving feeding efficiency

08:30 Identifying unproductive cows that hurt profitability

11:45 Why tighter calving seasons improve the bottom line

14:45 Labor flow, daily routines, and saving valuable hours

17:45 Equipment ownership versus equipment profitability

20:30 Grazing distribution and making every acre work harder

23:45 The cost of delayed decisions and poor timing

26:30 Hay testing, mineral programs, and nutrition management

29:15 Building a simple system to track costs, margins, and profitability

ranch management, ranch profitability, ranch efficiency, cattle operation, cattle business, beef industry, cattle producers, cow-calf operation, ranch audit, ranch efficiency audit, ranch profit, cattle profitability, operational efficiency, farm management, agricultural business, agricultural management, cost of production, break-even analysis, feed management, feeding accuracy, hay waste, hay feeding, hay testing, forage testing, cattle nutrition, mineral supplementation, cow productivity, culling decisions, calving season, calving management, weaning weights, labor efficiency, ranch labor, equipment management, machinery costs, equipment depreciation, grazing management, rotational grazing, pasture management, forage utilization, stocking rate, carrying capacity, financial management, ranch finances, business planning, cattle economics, livestock management, ranch sustainability, producer education, agriculture podcast, cattle podcast, beef cattle management

On today's episode of the podcast, Lauren is joined by cattle market analyst John Campbell for one of the most eye-opening conversations yet about who really controls today's cattle market. John breaks down Alternative Marketing Agreements (AMAs), how fed cattle are priced, why negotiated cash trade continues to shrink, and what many producers don't realize about Certified Angus Beef premiums. Drawing from his own recent feedyard closeouts, he explains how plant averages, carcass grids, and packer leverage impact producer profitability. The conversation also explores why so many feedyards participate in AMAs despite the frustrations, how market concentration has changed the industry, and what could happen if cattle numbers eventually begin to rebuild.

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

• How Alternative Marketing Agreements (AMAs) actually work

• Why many producers never receive the premiums their cattle earn

• The truth behind Certified Angus Beef qualifications

• How plant averages determine premiums and discounts

• Why negotiated cash trade has become such a small percentage of the market

• How packers have gained significant leverage over fed cattle pricing

• Why many feedyards feel they have no alternative but to participate in AMAs

• The risks producers face if cattle supplies eventually rebuild

• Why market concentration continues to be one of the biggest issues facing the cattle industry today

• What producers need to understand before marketing finished cattle

  
  

Chapters

00:00 John returns to the podcast
03:10 Current fed cattle and feeder cattle market update
06:45 What is an Alternative Marketing Agreement (AMA)?
10:15 The truth about Certified Angus Beef premiums
15:45 How packers calculate premiums and discounts
21:00 Why negotiated cash trade keeps shrinking
26:30 Why producers still participate in AMAs
31:40 Could today's cattle market structure survive herd rebuilding?
37:15 Final thoughts on the future of cattle marketing

Alternative Marketing Agreements, AMA cattle, cattle markets, fed cattle, feeder cattle, cattle pricing, packers, beef packers, negotiated cash trade, Certified Angus Beef, CAB premiums, cattle grids, carcass premiums, carcass pricing, cattle industry, beef industry, cattle marketing, fed cattle pricing, livestock markets, ranching, cattle producers, beef production, feedlots, independent cattle producers, cattle economics, John Campbell, CattleUSA Podcast, agriculture podcast

When drought sets in, most producers aren't just trying to stretch grass, they're trying to stretch time. Time until the next rain, the next flush of growth, or the next opportunity to avoid making a difficult decision. In this episode, Lauren breaks down the practical strategies that actually help preserve pasture productivity during dry conditions and explains why many common drought management practices can end up doing more harm than good. From stocking rate and rotational grazing to supplementation, pasture recovery, and decision making, this episode focuses on protecting both this year's operation and next year's forage base.

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:

• Stocking rate is the foundation of every successful drought plan
• Early decisions preserve more options than delayed reactions
• Rest periods become even more important during drought conditions
• Overgrazing today reduces forage production for future seasons
• Grazing distribution can significantly improve pasture utilization
• Strategic supplementation supports cattle but cannot replace grass
• Protect your most productive pastures for long-term recovery
• Drought management requires prioritization, not perfection

Chapters:

00:00 Why drought is really about managing time, not just grass

02:15 Stocking rate: the foundation of every grazing strategy

05:10 Why making early decisions always beats waiting

08:15 Rest periods, pasture recovery, and avoiding overgrazing

11:40 Improving grazing distribution with water and fencing

15:05 Supplementation: when it helps—and when it becomes expensive

18:30 Protecting your best ground during drought conditions

21:45 The myth of "just getting through" a drought

24:45 Building a ranch that's ready to recover when the rain returns

drought management, drought strategies, cattle drought management, ranch drought planning, grazing management, rotational grazing, pasture management, forage management, pasture recovery, overgrazing, stocking rate, cow-calf operations, cattle producers, ranchers, beef cattle, beef industry, forage utilization, grass management, pasture health, grazing distribution, temporary fencing, water placement, cattle supplementation, hay feeding, drought nutrition, cattle condition, herd management, destocking, culling decisions, ranch profitability, ranch management, agricultural management, livestock management, carrying capacity, pasture resilience, drought recovery, regenerative grazing, sustainable ranching, forage production, livestock nutrition, cattle operation, ranch planning, drought preparedness, agriculture podcast, cattle podcast

On today’s episode of the podcast, Lauren dives into one of the most overlooked topics in the cattle business: the hidden costs that slowly erode profitability. While most producers closely monitor major expenses like feed, land, labor, and equipment, many of the biggest threats to long-term profitability come from small inefficiencies that often go unnoticed. Lauren breaks down seven common profit leaks found in cattle operations, including underperforming cows, poor time management, hay quality mismatches, equipment costs, grazing inefficiencies, delayed decision-making, and the importance of knowing your numbers. This episode is a practical reminder that improving profitability isn't always about finding more revenue—sometimes it's about identifying where money is quietly slipping away.

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:

• Underperforming cows can quietly reduce herd profitability year after year
• Small inefficiencies compound into significant financial losses over time
• Time management is one of the most overlooked resources in ranching
• Hay testing helps eliminate costly nutrition guesswork
• Equipment ownership should be evaluated based on profitability, not convenience
• Grazing distribution directly impacts forage utilization and carrying capacity
• Delayed decisions often create larger financial consequences down the road
• Understanding production costs and break-even points is critical for success
• Profitability is often lost through small leaks rather than major mistakes
• Awareness and consistent adjustments drive long-term operational improvement
• Data-driven management leads to stronger business decisions
• Ranch profitability requires both production and business management skills

Chapters:

00:00 Why hidden costs matter more than most producers realize

02:05 The true cost of carrying "almost good enough" cows

04:30 How untracked time quietly drains profitability

07:15 Hay quality mismatches and nutrition mistakes

10:10 Equipment ownership versus equipment profitability

12:45 Grazing distribution and maximizing forage utilization

15:40 Why delayed decisions become expensive decisions

18:30 Understanding your numbers and finding profit leaks

21:00 Small changes that can improve ranch profitability

ranch profitability, cattle operation profitability, ranch management, cattle business, beef industry, cow-calf operation, ranch economics, agricultural economics, farm management, cattle producers, ranchers, ranch efficiency, operational efficiency, profit leaks, hidden costs, cattle production, beef production, cost of production, break-even analysis, business management, ranch finances, cattle herd management, culling decisions, cow productivity, weaning weights, cattle nutrition, hay testing, forage quality, supplemental feeding, grazing management, rotational grazing, pasture management, forage utilization, carrying capacity, ranch labor efficiency, time management, agricultural leadership, ranch planning, farm profitability, equipment costs, machinery costs, cattle operation expenses

Dan Gerhold and Samantha Cozza-Wright join Lauren once again today for a deep dive into the cattle market as prices continue pushing into uncharted territory. Cash cattle continue setting new highs, feeder cattle remain historically strong, and optimism remains widespread across much of the industry. But beneath the surface, questions are beginning to emerge about what comes next. Dan and Samantha discuss cash market strength, feeder cattle demand, basis levels, beef demand, imports, processing capacity, and the risks producers should be paying attention to as the industry moves through the second half of the year. They also examine the growing global appreciation for U.S. beef, why consumers continue supporting high beef prices, and how producers can position themselves for success while protecting against future market uncertainty.

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:

• Cash cattle continue finding support at historically high price levels
• Feeder cattle futures have recovered significant ground following recent volatility
• Strong beef demand remains one of the market's biggest bullish drivers
• Wide basis levels continue creating opportunities and challenges for producers
• Video auction prices reflect continued confidence in future cattle markets
• Packer capacity and plant closures remain important long-term concerns
• Beef imports continue increasing despite historically tight cattle inventories
• Risk management remains critical even during record-setting markets
• Export opportunities could expand as more consumers discover U.S. beef
• Producer optimism remains high, but future market risks cannot be ignored
• Deferred futures continue creating difficult hedging decisions
• Market fundamentals remain supportive, but uncertainty still exists beyond the near term

Chapters:

06:00 Feeder cattle futures, basis levels, and video sale activity

10:00 The challenge of managing risk in a historically strong market

13:00 LRP opportunities and protecting fall cattle sales

16:00 Herd rebuilding, cow slaughter, and long-term supply concerns

20:00 Why foreign visitors are falling in love with American beef

23:00 Beef demand, exports, imports, and global market opportunities

26:00 Checkoff dollars, consumer perception, and industry promotion

30:00 Grain markets, feed costs, and outside market influences

33:00 The biggest risks facing cattle producers heading into 2026

36:00 What Dan and Samantha are watching most closely moving forward

cattle market, cattle market update, cattle prices, record cattle prices, cash cattle market, cash cattle prices, feeder cattle market, feeder cattle futures, live cattle futures, feeder cattle index, beef demand, beef industry, cattle industry, cattle producers, ranchers, cow calf producers, cattle feeding, feedyard economics, cattle marketing, risk management, livestock risk protection, LRP insurance, cattle hedging, basis levels, video cattle sales, cattle cycle, herd rebuilding, heifer retention, cow slaughter, beef exports, beef imports, global beef demand, profitability, cattle market outlook, agriculture podcast, cattle podcast, Dan Gerhold, Samantha Cozza-Wright

On today’s episode of the podcast, Lauren is joined by meteorologist Gary Lezak for a timely look at the weather patterns shaping the remainder of the growing season. As summer officially begins, producers across the country are seeing dramatically different conditions—from excessive rainfall and flooding concerns in parts of the Midwest to ongoing drought challenges in portions of Nebraska and Colorado. Gary breaks down why the next 60 days will be critical for crop development, what producers should watch during corn pollination, and where the greatest weather risks remain as we move deeper into summer. The conversation also covers heat waves, severe weather, long-range forecasting, and how shifting weather patterns could impact both crop and livestock producers 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.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:

• The next 60 days will play a major role in determining final crop yields
• Corn pollination season is one of the most weather-sensitive periods of the year
• Parts of the Corn Belt are entering summer with excellent soil moisture conditions
• Drought concerns continue across portions of Colorado and western Nebraska
• Excessive rainfall has created both opportunities and challenges in some regions
• A July heat wave remains a possibility across portions of the Plains
• Severe weather risks will continue before gradually tapering off later this summer
• Weather conditions can shift quickly from too wet to too dry during the growing season
• The LRC model continues to point toward regional differences in temperature and rainfall
• Livestock and crop producers alike should closely monitor weather trends through August

Chapters:

00:00 Summer officially arrives across cattle country

03:00 Rainfall totals and drought conditions across the Midwest

07:00 Why the next 60 days are so important for crop yields

10:00 Corn pollination and weather-related production risks

13:00 Heat wave potential heading into July

16:00 Severe weather, tornado season, and regional outlooks

19:00 Long-range forecasting and what producers should watch next

Gary Lezak, Weather 2020, weather forecast, agriculture weather, farm weather, ranch weather, crop yields, corn pollination, corn production, soybean production, Midwest weather, Corn Belt weather, summer weather outlook, drought conditions, drought monitor, rainfall forecast, severe weather, tornado season, heat wave forecast, July weather outlook, agricultural forecasting, long-range weather forecast, LRC model, weather patterns, crop conditions, soil moisture, farming outlook, cattle country weather, livestock weather, hay production, forage conditions, pasture management, grazing conditions, crop stress, weather risk management, agriculture markets, corn belt forecast, Nebraska drought, Colorado drought, Kansas weather, Iowa weather, Missouri weather, Illinois weather, flood concerns, excessive rainfall, weather trends, agricultural producers, cattle producers, farmers, ranchers, agriculture podcast, cattle podcast.

On today’s episode of the podcast, Lauren is joined by Dr. Jennifer Hammack, agriculture instructor at Western Oklahoma State College and lifelong cattle producer, for a conversation about the challenges and opportunities facing today's beef industry. From growing up on one of the largest ranches in Texas to building her own cow-calf operation from the ground up, Jennifer shares her perspective on genetics, herd rebuilding, land ownership, technology, and the future of agriculture. The discussion dives into why it has become increasingly difficult for young producers to enter the cattle business, how rising land prices and competing land uses are reshaping rural America, and what today's producers can do to position themselves for long-term success. Jennifer also offers valuable insight into educating the next generation and why she remains optimistic about the future of the cattle industry despite the challenges ahead.

Links:

Western Oklahoma State College - https://www.wosc.edu/

WOSC Ag - https://www.wosc.edu/index.php?page=agriculture2#agabout

Dr. Jennifer Hammack - https://www.wosc.edu/index.php?page=jennifer-hammack

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:

• Building a cattle operation takes more time and capital than ever before
• Rising land prices continue creating barriers for young producers
• Data centers and competing land uses are changing rural communities
• Genetics and EPDs remain valuable tools for improving herd performance
• Herd rebuilding remains difficult despite historically strong cattle prices
• Technology adoption continues to reshape cattle production
• Business management skills are just as important as production knowledge
• The next generation of producers remains eager to learn and get involved
• Community colleges play an important role in agricultural education
• Experience, patience, and long-term planning are critical for success
• Drought and weather cycles continue influencing expansion decisions
• The future of the cattle industry depends on bringing new people into agriculture

Chapters:

00:00 Growing up on one of Texas' largest ranches

06:00 How the cattle industry has changed over the last decade

09:00 Genetics, EPDs, and improving commercial cattle herds

13:00 Technology's growing role in cattle production

15:00 Educating and inspiring the next generation of agriculture

19:00 Data centers, land prices, and rural America

23:00 Herd rebuilding and heifer retention challenges

29:00 What the future holds for the cattle industry

32:00 Advice for young producers trying to get started

Dr. Jennifer Hammack, Western Oklahoma State College, cattle industry, beef industry, cattle producers, ranching, ranch management, young ranchers, beginning farmers, beginning ranchers, next generation agriculture, agricultural education, animal science, beef cattle genetics, EPDs, expected progeny differences, herd rebuilding, heifer retention, cow-calf operations, commercial cattle, Angus cattle, cattle production, cattle technology, precision agriculture, agricultural technology, ranch succession, land ownership, ranch land, rural America, data centers

On today’s episode of the podcast, Lauren is joined by Samantha Cozza-Wright to discuss the latest developments in the cattle market following a week of renewed optimism and recovering futures prices. While the market has regained significant ground since the recent selloff, producers are still facing the same question: how long can this run continue? Samantha breaks down cash cattle strength, feeder cattle volatility, drought concerns, New World Screwworm headlines, packer dynamics, consumer demand, and the many factors influencing producer decision-making as the industry moves into the second half of the year. The conversation also explores why today's cattle market feels different than previous cycles and what producers should be watching as they make critical decisions heading into summer and fall.Connect with Samantha:Email - [email protected] Phone - 785-940-5533Links: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 Takeways:- Cash cattle markets continue providing stability- Feeder cattle futures have recovered significant losses- Drought and wildfire concerns remain major threats- Heifer retention and herd rebuilding remain complicated- New World Screwworm headlines continue impacting market sentiment- Consumer demand for beef remains surprisingly resilient- Packer behavior remains a critical market driver- Volatility continues creating uncertainty for producers- Risk management remains essential in today's market- Long-term supply fundamentals continue supporting prices- Expansion remains difficult despite strong cattle values- Producers face increasingly complex business decisionsChapters:00:00 Market recovery and summer conditions across cattle country04:00 Why cattle futures have rallied back08:00 The upcoming Cattle on Feed report and market expectations11:00 Drought, wildfires, and the realities of herd expansion15:00 New World Screwworm and headline-driven volatility19:00 Consumer demand, inflation, and beef prices23:00 Why producers are struggling to make long-term decisions27:00 Risk management, protection strategies, and what's nextSamantha Cozza-Wright, cattle market update, cattle market forecast, cattle prices, feeder cattle market, live cattle futures, feeder cattle futures, cattle market outlook, beef industry, cattle industry, cattle producers, ranching, ranch management, livestock markets, commodity markets, beef demand, consumer demand, cattle cycle, cattle economics, drought conditions, wildfire impacts, herd expansion, heifer retention, cow herd rebuilding, cattle inventory, New World Screwworm, screwworm Texas, cattle volatility, market volatility, packer margins, packer influence, cash cattle market, cattle on feed report, cattle feeding, feeder cattle prices, cattle marketing, risk management, LRP insurance, livestock risk protection, agricultural markets, beef production, ranch profitability, cow calf producers, cattle operations, agricultural economics, cattle country news, beef prices, inflation and beef, cattle industry trends, summer cattle market, fall cattle market outlook, agriculture podcast, cattle podcast

On today’s episode of the podcast, Lauren is joined by writer, event producer, and agricultural communicator Josie Holland for a conversation about the power of storytelling in agriculture. From rodeos and western events to social media, rural communities, and consumer engagement, Josie shares why producers can no longer afford to sit on the sidelines when it comes to telling their stories. The discussion explores the role events play in connecting consumers to agriculture, the importance of face-to-face relationships in an increasingly digital world, and how the next generation of agricultural advocates can help shape public perception before someone else shapes it for them. Whether you're a cattle producer, rodeo fan, agricultural communicator, or simply passionate about the future of rural America, this episode is a reminder that every conversation has the potential to make an impact.

Links:

Josie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josiemac/

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:

• Agriculture must tell its story before others tell it for us
• Rodeos and western events create valuable consumer connections
• Face-to-face conversations still matter in a digital-first world
• Building trust starts long before a crisis occurs
• Social media can be a powerful tool when used intentionally
• Community events help strengthen rural America and agriculture
• Curiosity and relationship-building open doors across industries
• Young producers have an important role in agricultural advocacy
• Every producer has a story worth sharing with consumers
• The future of agriculture depends on meaningful communication
• Networking remains one of the industry's greatest strengths
• Small interactions can create lasting impacts on public perception

Chapters:

00:00 Josie's background in event production and communications

04:00 Why rodeos and western events matter to agriculture

08:00 Community, networking, and industry connections

12:00 Consumer exposure and agricultural education

16:00 Controlling the narrative through storytelling

21:00 Building relationships across agriculture

25:00 Social media, advocacy, and the next generation

29:00 What agriculture can do better moving forward

Josie Holland, agricultural storytelling, agriculture communication, ag communications, agricultural advocacy, cattle industry, beef industry, ranching, western industry, rodeo industry, rodeo production, western events, agricultural events, consumer education, consumer engagement, agriculture marketing, rural America, rural communities, agricultural leadership, social media in agriculture, agricultural influencers, beef producers, cattle producers, livestock industry, livestock producers, western lifestyle, agricultural networking, rodeo marketing, storytelling in agriculture, agricultural public relations, agriculture and social media, producer advocacy, agricultural policy, consumer trust, food production, ranch life, western culture, livestock shows, National Western Stock Show, agricultural outreach, rural development, agriculture podcast, cattle podcast, next generation agriculture, Gen Z agriculture, agricultural careers, agricultural education

Lauren is joined by Taylor Stertzbach on today's episode of the Cattle USA Daily Podcast. Taylor is a sales manager at PBS Animal Health and co-owner of a family show cattle operation in Ohio. Taylor offers a unique perspective on the beef industry through both her professional role in animal health and her personal involvement in raising and marketing show cattle. The conversation explores the evolution of the show cattle industry, emerging animal health technologies, New World Screwworm preparedness, producer challenges across different regions of the country, and why staying curious is one of the most valuable traits anyone can bring to agriculture. Taylor also shares her journey into the cattle industry after growing up in the equine world and discusses the opportunities available to the next generation of agricultural professionals.

Links:

Taylor's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-stertzbach-157562145/

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:

• The show cattle industry continues to evolve, with growing emphasis on breed characteristics and junior exhibitors.
• Animal health companies are introducing innovative technologies that can improve cattle management and profitability.
• New World Screwworm has been a major topic of discussion within the animal health industry for more than a year.
• GPS ear tags, diagnostics, and other technologies are helping producers make more informed decisions.
• Cattle producers across the country face different challenges depending on their region and operation type.
• Return on investment remains a key factor in producer adoption of new products and technologies.
• Social media and industry events are creating new opportunities for people entering agriculture.
• Despite challenges, the beef industry remains connected by a common goal: raising quality cattle and producing quality beef.

Chapters:

00:00 Taylor's journey from horses to the beef industry

05:00 Changes in the show cattle industry

09:00 New World Screwworm and animal health concerns

13:00 Emerging technologies and innovation in cattle production

17:00 Understanding producers across different regions

21:00 Social media, networking, and finding a place in agriculture

24:00 Why Taylor remains optimistic about the beef industry

Taylor Stertzbach, PBS Animal Health, animal health, beef cattle industry, show cattle, cattle producers, livestock industry, New World Screwworm, GPS ear tags, cattle technology, cattle innovation, beef production, cattle management, livestock health, animal health products, show cattle industry, Angus cattle, Limousin cattle, junior livestock shows, cattle genetics, producer education, livestock marketing, beef industry trends, cattle operations, fly control, livestock technology, agriculture careers, social media in agriculture, NCBA, cattle ranching, beef advocacy, agricultural leadership, cattle podcast, agriculture podcast, future of agriculture, beef cattle management, livestock producers.