Episode 15: French Cattle. American Truth. with Scott Fredrickson & Matt Henley

When two cattlemen from opposite corners of the country—Scott Fredrickson in Montana and Matt Henley in North Carolina—land on the same obscure French cattle line without ever comparing notes, it raises eyebrows. But when those cattle quietly outperform mainstream genetics in both programs, you start paying attention.

In this episode, Scott and Matt join host Patrick Powers to reveal how the little-known Aubrac cattle from France are quietly making their mark across dramatically different environments.

These moderate-framed, efficient cattle from France's mountainous Massif Central region were bred for generations to thrive on grass alone in large herds. The result is animals with exceptional maternal traits, fleshing ability, and adaptability. While the commercial cattle industry chased frame size and visual appeal, these breeders focused on what truly matters: animals that stay healthy, breed back consistently, and convert forage efficiently with minimal human intervention.

The conversation reveals fascinating insights about what makes these genetics special. Their metabolic efficiency allows them to maintain condition even under challenging management. When used in crossbreeding, they consistently produce outstanding females that instinctively excel as mothers. Plus, they carry the "profit gene," a myostatin variant that increases retail yield by 30 percent without compromising fertility.

What’s particularly compelling is how testing validates their real-world observations. Promo-gen testing shows exceptional immune function. Tenet certification rates exceed 90 percent, compared to industry averages of just 3 to 6 percent. A2 milk testing also confirms superior nutritional benefits.

Beyond just discussing a specific breed, this episode challenges conventional cattle industry wisdom. These producers argue that success comes not from chasing EPDs or following trends, but from selecting animals that work in your specific environment with minimal inputs. Their philosophy reflects the regenerative approach: improving land while requiring fewer resources.

Whether you're rethinking your breeding program, interested in heritage genetics, or simply curious about alternative approaches to cattle raising, this conversation offers valuable insights into what truly matters for sustainable, profitable ranching.

Connect with Scott Fredrickson and Matt Henley:

Scott’s Bos Sire page: https://www.bossires.com/fredrickson-ranch

Matt's Website: https://peedeepremium.eatfromfarms.com/

Matt's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PeeDeePremium

Aubrac Breed Info: https://aubrac.ie/aboutaubracs/

Check out Bos Sires:

Website: https://www.bossires.com/

Bos Sires Catalog: International New Bos Sires Catalog (English)

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