Ranchonomics

In this Ranchonomics Stories episode, John Haskell sits down with the Sims family to trace the roots of a ranching operation that began with leased ground at $2 an acre and has grown into a thriving four-generation business. Scott and April Sims, along with their son Shannon and daughter-in-law Melinda, reflect on the pivotal decisions, financial challenges, and mindset shifts that shaped their four-generation ranch over the years. From surviving periods of heavy debt to embracing new management ideas, they share how a willingness to learn and adapt laid the foundation for future generations.

The conversation also explores the power of a shared family vision and the role it has played in guiding major business decisions. The Sims family discusses developing a holistic vision, creating space for every family member's voice, and using that vision to evaluate opportunities, genetics, grazing management, and long-term succession. More than anything, this episode is about building a ranch that reflects shared values while preparing the next generation for success. Stay tuned for part 2 of this conversation.

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In this episode, we cover:

• How the Sims family grew a ranching business from leased ground into a four-generation operation
• The financial decisions that helped them overcome debt and improve profitability
• Why creating a shared family vision became a turning point for the business
• How their vision guided decisions around adaptive genetics, grazing, and business growth
• Why embracing new ideas and calculated risks has shaped each generation of the ranch
• The importance of building a business that creates opportunities for future generations

Connect with Ranch Right:

• Subscribe on YouTube
• Follow on Instagram @ranchrightllc
• Follow on Facebook
• Check out the website
• Check out all of our past webinars here

Resources & Links:

• Book a Free Discovery Call to Learn More
• Ranching for Profit
• Ranching.FYI
• Wally Olson, Olson Ranch LLC

Mentioned in this episode:

We work with producers on cash flow, risk management, and long-term financial strategy so the business stays resilient—no matter the market.

Book a free discovery call

Can cover crops actually make your operation more profitable? In this episode, John Haskell sits down with Kansas farmer and rancher Kevin Wiltse to discuss how integrating livestock into a dryland cropping system has transformed the economics of his operation. Kevin shares how his family's fifth-generation farm shifted from viewing cover crops as an expense to treating them as a profitable forage enterprise, creating additional income while reducing herbicide and fertilizer costs.

The conversation explores the practical realities of making cover crops work in a semi-arid environment, including grazing management, species selection, seed costs, and measuring profitability. Kevin explains why success comes from evaluating the entire system instead of individual enterprises, and how stacking multiple sources of revenue on the same acres has helped his operation remain profitable, even during challenging years for traditional row crop farming. Stay tuned for Part 2 of this conversation.

Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, we cover:

• Why Kevin transitioned from viewing cover crops as a cost to treating them as a forage enterprise
• How integrating livestock can offset lower crop yields through additional revenue and reduced input costs
• Practical guidelines for selecting cover crop species and managing grazing in a dryland system
• How cover crops have reduced herbicide and fertilizer costs on Kevin's operation
• How stacking livestock, forage, seed production, and cash crops can significantly increase profit per acre
• Why adapting farming systems to local rainfall and growing conditions is essential for long-term success

Connect with Ranch Right:

• Subscribe on YouTube 
• Follow on Instagram @ranchrightllc 
• Follow on Facebook 
• Check out the website
• Check out all of our past webinars here

Resources & Links:

• Book a Free Discovery Call to Learn More 
• Ranching for Profit 
• Ranching.FYI 
• Wally Olson, Olson Ranch LLC

Mentioned in this episode:

We work with producers on cash flow, risk management, and long-term financial strategy so the business stays resilient—no matter the market.

Book a free discovery call

In this episode of Ranchonomics Stories, John Haskell sits down with Brian and Jill Munger to share the journey of building a diversified ranch business while continually creating new opportunities. From taking over family responsibilities at a young age to expanding into registered cattle, custom grazing, educational ventures, and even hospitality, the Mungers reflect on the decisions, relationships, and mindset that have shaped their business. Their story is one of embracing change, saying yes to opportunity, and learning that growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone.

Throughout the conversation, Brian and Jill discuss balancing family and business, navigating rapid growth, and the challenge of deciding what deserves their time and attention. They share lessons on leadership, succession planning, continuous learning, and the value of building strong relationships throughout the ranching industry. More than anything, this episode is about living with a mindset of service, believing that when you help enough other people succeed, success has a way of following.

Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, we cover:

• How Brian and Jill built a diversified business by continually pursuing new opportunities
• Why relationships have been one of the greatest drivers of their success
• The challenges of balancing multiple businesses while protecting time and focus
• Lessons learned from expanding into hospitality and other non-traditional ventures
• How Brian and Jill are preparing for succession and the next generation
• Why continuous learning and personal development have shaped their journey

Connect with Ranch Right:

• Subscribe on YouTube 
• Follow on Instagram @ranchrightllc 
• Follow on Facebook 
• Check out the website
• Check out all of our past webinars here

Resources & Links:

• Book a Free Discovery Call to Learn More 
• Ranching for Profit 
• Ranching.FYI 
• Wally Olson, Olson Ranch LLC

Mentioned in this episode:

We work with producers on cash flow, risk management, and long-term financial strategy so the business stays resilient—no matter the market.

Book a free discovery call

In Part 2 of John Haskell's conversation with Amos Troester (listen to Part 1 here), the focus shifts from forage systems to business thinking. Amos explains why many producers miss profitable opportunities by focusing on minimizing expenses rather than maximizing returns. Through real-world examples, he shares how integrating livestock with cover crops and annual forages can generate additional revenue, increase carrying capacity, and improve profitability, all while making better use of the same acres.

The conversation also explores the mindset required to adopt new systems, from starting small and learning through experience to viewing biomass as a marketable crop. Amos discusses the economic and agronomic benefits of integrating grazing into cropping systems, including improved weed suppression, erosion control, soil health, and overall resilience. The episode is a reminder that the biggest opportunities often come from thinking differently about the resources you already have.

Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, we cover:

• Why producers should focus on return, not just cost, when evaluating new opportunities
• How grazing annual forages can increase carrying capacity and improve profitability
• Why biomass should be viewed as a valuable crop, not just a byproduct
• The importance of starting small when adopting new grazing and cropping systems
• How cover crops can reduce herbicide costs while improving soil health and erosion control
• Practical strategies for managing mud, compaction, and grazing intensity
• Why staying open to new ideas can unlock opportunities that transform your business

Connect with Amos:

• Follow on Facebook
• Check out his website
• Send an email at [email protected]

Connect with Ranch Right:

• Subscribe on YouTube
• Follow on Instagram @ranchrightllc
• Follow on Facebook
• Check out the website
• Check out all of our past webinars here

Resources & Links:

• Episode 105. From Row Crops to Forage Crops: A New Way to Think About Your Acres with Amos Troester
• Book a Free Discovery Call to Learn More
• Ranching for Profit
• Ranching.FYI
• Wally Olson, Olson Ranch LLC

Mentioned in this episode:

We work with producers on cash flow, risk management, and long-term financial strategy so the business stays resilient—no matter the market.

Book a free discovery call

In this episode of Ranchonomics Stories, John Haskell sits down with longtime friend Pete Ferrell to share the remarkable story of a ranch worth fighting for that has remained in his family since 1888. Pete reflects on the generations that came before him, the responsibility of stewarding a family legacy, and the difficult decisions required to keep the ranch financially viable through changing markets, family transitions, and decades of uncertainty. His story is one of resilience, continual learning, and a commitment to leaving the ranch stronger than he found it.

Throughout the conversation, Pete shares how mentors, financial discipline, custom grazing, and a willingness to rethink traditional approaches transformed both the ranch and his outlook on management. He discusses succession planning, separating land ownership from the operating business, and why the ultimate goal is not simply to preserve a ranch but to create opportunities for future generations to build meaningful lives connected to it. More than anything, this episode is a story about stewardship, adaptability, and building something that lasts.

Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, we cover:

• The history of the Ferrell Ranch and the responsibility of carrying a five-generation legacy forward
• How Pete used custom grazing and cash flow planning to navigate financial challenges
• The influence of mentors like Stan Parsons on Pete's approach to ranch management
• Why separating land ownership from the operating business created a stronger succession plan
• How continually adapting management has kept the ranch resilient through changing conditions
• Why preserving a ranch means creating opportunity, not just protecting assets

Connect with Ranch Right:

• Subscribe on YouTube
• Follow on Instagram @ranchrightllc
• Follow on Facebook
• Check out the website
• Check out all of our past webinars here

Resources & Links:

• Knowledge Rich Ranching by Allan Nation
• Book a Free Discovery Call to Learn More
• Ranching for Profit
• Ranching.FYI
• Wally Olson, Olson Ranch LLC

Mentioned in this episode:

We work with producers on cash flow, risk management, and long-term financial strategy so the business stays resilient—no matter the market.

Book a free discovery call

With screwworm confirmed in Texas for the first time in decades, producers across the country are asking what it means for their operations. In this special episode of the Ranchonomics Podcast, John Haskell is joined by Travis Krause to separate fact from fiction and explain what ranchers need to know about the outbreak. Travis discusses the biology of screwworm, why it poses such a serious threat to livestock and wildlife, how the sterile fly program has historically controlled its spread, and what producers in affected areas should be doing right now.

The conversation also explores how the outbreak could affect cattle movement, biosecurity, and markets across the United States. While producers in South Texas face the greatest immediate impact, John and Travis emphasize that most ranchers should focus on preparation rather than panic. They discuss practical steps for monitoring livestock, documenting animal movements, strengthening biosecurity, and adapting management plans as regulations continue to evolve.

Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, we cover:

• What screwworm is and why it poses a serious threat to livestock and wildlife
• How the sterile fly program successfully eradicated screwworm and why it's back in the U.S.
• What producers in affected areas should do to monitor, treat, and report suspected cases
• How quarantine zones and changing regulations may affect cattle movement
• Why stronger biosecurity practices benefit every cattle operation, regardless of location
• How the outbreak could influence cattle markets and marketing decisions
• The practical changes Travis has made to his own operation in response to the outbreak

Connect with Ranch Right:

• Subscribe on YouTube
• Follow on Instagram @ranchrightllc
• Follow on Facebook
• Check out the website
• Check out all of our past webinars here

Resources & Links:

• Book a Free Discovery Call to Learn More
• Ranching for Profit
• Ranching.FYI
• Wally Olson, Olson Ranch LLC

Mentioned in this episode:

We work with producers on cash flow, risk management, and long-term financial strategy so the business stays resilient—no matter the market.

Book a free discovery call

In this episode of Ranchonomics Stories, John Haskell sits down with Josh Lucas to share the story of building a ranching business from the ground up in Vermont. Starting with rented land, a side job, and a willingness to pursue every opportunity that generated cash flow, Josh reflects on the early years of hauling livestock, leasing overlooked pastures, and steadily growing his operation one decision at a time. Along the way, he shares how working for someone else became a form of paid education and laid the foundation for building his own successful business.

The conversation explores the mindset shifts that helped Josh move beyond simply working harder to building a business that creates both profitability and freedom. From learning to focus on the right enterprises to outsourcing low-value tasks, investing in relationships, and protecting time with his family, Josh shares the lessons that transformed both his ranch and his life. More than anything, this episode is a story about creating opportunity through persistence, continual learning, and a willingness to think differently.

Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, we cover:

• How Josh built a ranching business by starting small and pursuing every cash flow opportunity
• Why working for someone else can be one of the best investments in your own future
• Lessons learned from leasing overlooked ground and creating value where others didn't see it
• How Ranching for Profit changed the way Josh evaluated enterprises and managed his business
• Why protecting your time can be more valuable than doing everything yourself
• The role of mentors, relationships, and long-term planning in building a successful operation
• Why Josh believes there are still tremendous opportunities for people willing to start from scratch

Connect with Josh:

• Follow on Facebook

Connect with Ranch Right:

• Subscribe on YouTube
• Follow on Instagram @ranchrightllc
• Follow on Facebook
• Check out the website
• Check out all of our past webinars here

Resources & Links:

• Book a Free Discovery Call to Learn More
• Ranching for Profit
• Ranching.FYI
• Wally Olson, Olson Ranch LLC

Mentioned in this episode:

We work with producers on cash flow, risk management, and long-term financial strategy so the business stays resilient—no matter the market.

Book a free discovery call

Many producers think of cover crops as an added expense, but what if they could become a profitable enterprise? In part one of a two-part conversation, John Haskell sits down with Amos Troester to explore how integrating livestock with cover crops and annual forages can unlock new revenue streams while improving soil health and reducing input costs. Amos shares how his first-generation farming operation has evolved from a conventional row-crop system into a diversified business centered on cattle, cover crops, seed production, and custom planting services.

The conversation explores row crops to forage crops, the economics of grazing annuals, and why biomass production may be a more useful metric for evaluating land than bushels alone. Amos also explains how reducing fertilizer use, extending the grazing season, and viewing farmland through a livestock lens can create new opportunities for both crop and cattle producers.

Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, we cover:

• How integrating livestock can increase the value of row crop acres
• The difference between cover crops and forage crops
• Why biomass production may matter more than crop yield alone
• How annual forages can reduce fertilizer and feed costs
• The economics of grazing cover crops and small grain systems
• Why diversified enterprises create greater resilience in challenging commodity markets

Connect with Amos:

• Check out his website

Connect with Ranch Right:

• Subscribe on YouTube
• Follow on Instagram @ranchrightllc
• Follow on Facebook
• Check out the website
• Check out all of our past webinars here

Resources & Links:

• Book a Free Discovery Call to Learn More
• Ranching for Profit
• Ranching.FYI
• Wally Olson, Olson Ranch LLC

Mentioned in this episode:

We work with producers on cash flow, risk management, and long-term financial strategy so the business stays resilient—no matter the market.

Book a free discovery call

In this episode of Ranchonomics Stories, John Haskell sits down with Ben Habig to share the unconventional path that led him from a rented duplex and a small herd of goats to building a prescribed grazing business in Montana. Along the way, Ben navigated multiple pivots, including growing and selling a goat enterprise, moving more than 1,500 miles across the country, working as an employee to gain experience and create new opportunities, and ultimately launching a business focused on helping landowners manage invasive weeds through targeted grazing.

The conversation explores the realities of entrepreneurship, including risk, uncertainty, relocation, and the constant need to adapt while building a business nobody else was building. Ben reflects on lessons learned from entering unfamiliar environments, building new relationships, finding opportunities where others saw obstacles, and creating a scalable business model from the ground up. More than anything, this episode is a story about persistence, flexibility, and being willing to evolve your vision while staying committed to the larger goal.

Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, we cover:

• How Ben went from 45 goats and a rented duplex to building a prescribed grazing business
• Why selling a successful goat operation created new opportunities instead of ending the journey
• The challenges and rewards of moving 1,500 miles to pursue a new vision
• How prescribed grazing became the foundation for a scalable business model
• Lessons learned from adapting to a completely different climate, landscape, and production environment
• Why relationships, mentors, and professional networks accelerate opportunity
• How Ben and his wife Lauren have navigated entrepreneurship as partners with complementary strengths

Connect with Ben:

• Check out his website
• Follow on Instagram @habiglivestock
• Follow on Facebook
• Subscribe on YouTube

Connect with Ranch Right:

• Subscribe on YouTube
• Follow on Instagram @ranchrightllc
• Follow on Facebook
• Check out the website
• Check out all of our past webinars here

Resources & Links:

• Book a Free Discovery Call to Learn More
• Ranching for Profit
• Ranching.FYI
• Wally Olson, Olson Ranch LLC

Mentioned in this episode:

We work with producers on cash flow, risk management, and long-term financial strategy so the business stays resilient—no matter the market.

Book a free discovery call

Burnout, stress, and mental health are not topics often discussed in ranching, but they affect nearly every producer at some point. In this episode, John Haskell sits down with Vermont rancher Josh Lucas to discuss the realities of balancing business ownership, family responsibilities, and the pressures that come with building a ranch. Josh shares his personal experience with burnout, a panic attack that forced him to reevaluate his approach to work, and the lessons he learned about sustainability beyond the balance sheet.

The conversation explores the connection between mental well-being, relationships, leadership, and business performance. Josh explains why caring for yourself is not selfish, how financial stress can compound burnout, and why sustainable businesses require sustainable effort. They also discuss the importance of focusing on what you can control, building strong support systems, and recognizing that no one succeeds alone.

Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode!

In this episode, we cover:

• Josh's experience with burnout and what led to a panic attack
• How family responsibilities and business growth can compound stress
• Why caring for yourself is essential to caring for others
• The relationship between mental health, leadership, and ranch profitability
• How the "circles of control" framework can reduce overwhelm
• Why financial stress often drives burnout and poor decision-making
• The importance of mentors, friendships, and having someone to call when life gets difficult

Connect with Josh:

• Follow on Facebook

Connect with Ranch Right:

• Subscribe on YouTube
• Follow on Instagram @ranchrightllc
• Follow on Facebook
• Check out the website
• Check out all of our past webinars here

Resources & Links:

• 7 Habits Of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
• For the Love of Land by Jim Howell
• 12 Rules for Life by Jordan B. Peterson
• Book a Free Discovery Call to Learn More
• Ranching for Profit
• Ranching.FYI
• Wally Olson, Olson Ranch LLC

Mentioned in this episode:

We work with producers on cash flow, risk management, and long-term financial strategy so the business stays resilient—no matter the market.

Book a free discovery call