Grazing Grass Podcast | Rotational Grazing, Soil Health & Profitable Livestock Farming

In this episode, Dan Glenn from Deep Grass Graziers, shares his unique approach to farming, focusing on rearing top-quality, grass-fed beef. Dan details his unexpected journey from an English degree holder to becoming a farmer and discusses his strategies, such as using genetics in cattle farming and optimizing cattle environments. He also provides insights into the challenges of producing a superior steak product, his strategies for sustainability, and advice for those starting in farming.

Books/Resources Mentioned:
Southern Forages by Donald M. Ball, Carl S. Hoveland

Social media:
Website: http://www.deepgrassgraziers.com/
Facebook: Deep Grass Graziers

Discover the wonders of regenerative agriculture with Noble Research Institute! Their practical solutions and extensive research help farmers and ranchers enhance soil health, increase grazing productivity, and uplift the entire ecosystem. They've just launched the Essentials of Regenerative Ranching course - a must for those eager to pioneer change in agriculture. Check them out at noble.org and pioneer a sustainable future today!

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

In this episode, Taylor Muglia shares her fascinating journey from a student to a mentor in the world of regenerative agriculture. Her path takes her across the globe, from the U.S. to Italy, where she honed her butchery skills and learned about food and safety regulations. Upon returning to the U.S., she adapted to a new community while managing a custom herd of cattle, sheep, and poultry. The discussion then shifts to Quivira Coalition's New Agrarian Program (where Taylor works as the NAP's Colorado Manager), aimed at empowering budding agrarians. She talks about the application process, mentor-apprentice matching, and the variety of operations the program supports. Taylor also shares the challenges and triumphs of building a community, the importance of mental health support, and the impact of their program on its alumni.

Books/Resources Mentioned:
For the Love of Soil: Strategies to Regenerate Our Food Production Systems by Nicole Masters

Social media:
Website: https://quiviracoalition.org/newagrarian/
Instagram: @quiviracoalition
Facebook: Quivira Coalition

X: @QuiviraAgRanch

Discover the wonders of regenerative agriculture with Noble Research Institute! Their practical solutions and extensive research help farmers and ranchers enhance soil health, increase grazing productivity, and uplift the entire ecosystem. They've just launched the Essentials of Regenerative Ranching course - a must for those eager to pioneer change in agriculture. Check them out at noble.org and pioneer a sustainable future today!

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

On this episode, we sat down with Mason Lantz, a first-generation farmer who transformed his life by diving into farming without any prior experience. The discussion delves into Mason's journey, from learning about grazing and homesteading through YouTube videos and books to managing his own cattle farm. The episode also covers the challenges of setting up a cattle farm, the integration of IoT devices in farming, and Mason's innovative strategies for cost reduction. Finally, Mason shares valuable advice for aspiring and experienced farmers alike, discussing details about grazing, breeding cows, and buying calves. This episode provides an inspiring and insightful look into the life and work of a modern farmer.
 
Social media:
Instagram: @elmsofbigcreekfarm
Facebook: Elms of Big Creek Farm

Discover the wonders of regenerative agriculture with Noble Research Institute! Their practical solutions and extensive research help farmers and ranchers enhance soil health, increase grazing productivity, and uplift the entire ecosystem. They've just launched the Essentials of Regenerative Ranching course - a must for those eager to pioneer change in agriculture. Check them out at noble.org and pioneer a sustainable future today!

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

In this episode, Jason Contreras, shares his inspirational journey from being diagnosed with cancer to becoming a homesteader in North Carolina. After his diagnosis, Jason and his wife decided to pursue a healthier, more self-sustainable lifestyle, which led them to leave their city life in Los Angeles and start a small scale farming operation. They began by raising chickens and gradually added more livestock such as pigs and steers. Jason discusses the complexities of his new lifestyle, sharing insights on various farming practices and techniques. He also emphasizes the determination and resilience required for self-sufficiency and healthier living. This episode provides valuable insights for those considering a similar path, making it a must-listen for aspiring homesteaders.

Social media:
Facebook: Sow the Land
Instagram: @sowtheland
Website: https://sowtheland.com

Books/Resources Mentioned:
Pastured Poultry Profits by Joel Salatin
Management-Intensive Grazing by Jim Gerrish
Quality Pastures by Allan Nation

Stockman Grass Farmer

Discover the wonders of regenerative agriculture with Noble Research Institute! Their practical solutions and extensive research help farmers and ranchers enhance soil health, increase grazing productivity, and uplift the entire ecosystem. They've just launched the Essentials of Regenerative Ranching course - a must for those eager to pioneer change in agriculture. Check them out at noble.org and pioneer a sustainable future today!

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

In this episode, Michael Vance of Southern Reds joins us to talk about their operation in Texas. Our conversation revolves around the intricacies of grass-based cattle farming, with emphasis on the importance of selecting the right genetics for the environment, the challenge of acclimating genetics, and the significance of consistency in breeding. Michael also discusses what grass genetics really is in the Overgrazing section. The conversation further delves into the potential for increased opportunity in the regenerative grazing movement and how to build a successful business model around it.

Social media:
Facebook: Southern Red Cattle

Discover the wonders of regenerative agriculture with Noble Research Institute! Their practical solutions and extensive research help farmers and ranchers enhance soil health, increase grazing productivity, and uplift the entire ecosystem. They've just launched the Essentials of Regenerative Ranching course - a must for those eager to pioneer change in agriculture. Check them out at noble.org and pioneer a sustainable future today!

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

In this podcast episode, Joshua Deck, a homesteader from southwest Missouri, talks about his journey into regenerative ranching and sustainable farming. Joshua discusses his techniques for transforming his 20-acre homestead into a thriving regenerative ranch. He shares his experiences with different types of livestock, soil management, garden and mushroom cultivation, and pastured poultry. He also shares insights on the importance of observing the land before starting with permaculture design, and offers advice for those starting out. This episode provides a wealth of knowledge for anyone interested in homesteading, sustainable farming, and regenerative ranching.

Books/Resources Mentioned:

Stockman Grass Farmer
Salad Beef Bar by Joel Salatin (Amazon) (Bookshop)

Social media:
Website: https://voiceinthewildernesspermaculture.com

Discover the wonders of regenerative agriculture with Noble Research Institute! Their practical solutions and extensive research help farmers and ranchers enhance soil health, increase grazing productivity, and uplift the entire ecosystem. They've just launched the Essentials of Regenerative Ranching course - a must for those eager to pioneer change in agriculture. Check them out at noble.org and pioneer a sustainable future today!

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

In this episode, Benton and Christy Line discuss their farming journey at Guided Rock Farms in Western Nebraska. The duo share their unique approach to soil health and livestock management, focusing on minimizing soil disturbance, maintaining a diverse crop rotation, and using livestock for weed control and fertilization. Their farming operation is not limited to crop farming; they also raise Navajo Churro sheep, an ancient breed prized for its wool. They share the intricacies of their sheep and wool operation, from shearing to processing and selling wool. Despite facing challenges like capital and time constraints, the Lines remain committed to their farming goals, which include organic and regenerative farming practices. The Lines' story offers an inspiring look into the world of beginning farmers, providing valuable insights into sustainable farming and the unique challenges and triumphs they face.

Books/Resources Mentioned:

The Marvelous Pigness of Pigs by Joel Salatin (Amazon) (Bookshop)

Social media:
Facebook: Guided Rock Farms
Instagram: @guided_rock_farms
Website: https://guidedrockfarms.com/

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

In this episode, Adam Ledvina, owner of Blue Collar Goatscaping, shares his journey into sustainable and innovative goat farming. Growing up between rural farmlands and a liberal arts education, Adam found a unique way to blend the two worlds. He shares how he transformed Kiko goats into productive assets and how he uses electric netting as tools for grazing goats and controlling invasive species. He also explores the future of farming, introducing the concept of virtual fencing for regenerative agriculture and rotational grazing.

Books/Resources Mentioned:

Permaculture: A Designers' Manual by Bill Mollison

Social media:
Facebook: Blue Collar Goatscaping

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

In this episode, Adam Mason, who operates HEAL Farms, shares his journey into the world of sustainable farming, from developing an interest in farming, setting up agricultural systems in a Haitian orphanage, to finally establishing his own farming operation during the pandemic. He discusses the challenges of direct marketing farm produce and the importance of wise purchasing decisions. He also delves into a unique approach to land restoration using pigs, his experiences in applying the teachings from Joel Salatin's book, Polyface Designs, and his use of social media for farm transparency and reaching wider audiences.

Books/Resources Mentioned:

Grass Productivity by Andre Voisin (Amazon) (Bookshop)
Polyface Designs by Joel Salatin

Social media:
Website: https://www.healfarms.com
Facebook: HEAL Farms
Instagram: @_healfarms

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

In this episode, Taysa Porto shares her journey of transitioning from veterinary school to managing a farm in Tenessee. Starting from training dogs in California, she moved to Massachusetts where she was introduced to regenerative farming. Taysa also talks about the importance of species identification in farming and her recent adventures in regenerative agriculture in Tennessee. She offers valuable insights into the challenges of starting fresh in an unfamiliar field and the importance of finding mentors.
 
Social media:
Instagram: @taysaporto

Looking for grass-based breeders?
 Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond Agriculture
Grassroots Carbon

Grazing Grass Links
Website
Community (on Facebook)

Original Music by Louis Palfrey