Join us on a journey to Emory, Texas, as we explore the innovative multi-species ranching operation at Legends Cattle Company with our guests, Thomas and Emily. Thomas shares how their family-run ranch has expanded over five generations, evolving from a traditional cattle farm into a diverse ecosystem that includes sheep, pigs, and chickens, all managed through grass finishing. Emily, hailing from a beach town in California, talks about her vital role in marketing and sales for their Born and Raised brand, which sells directly to consumers. Together, they offer insights into their sustainable grazing techniques and how they are adapting to the varied needs of their livestock while improving land management.

In an intriguing segment, Thomas and Emily recount their unexpected paths into the world of ranching and livestock marketing. Despite starting as a city boy, Thomas landed a marketing role at Morning Rains Ranch and found a new connection with nature, which now helps him understand and respect animals. Emily, inspired by her grandfather's ranch and her involvement with the FFA, shares her journey from a love of animals in high school to a rewarding career in agriculture. Their stories underscore how past experiences and chance moments can lead to unexpected career paths in the ranching world.

We also discuss the Garrett family's evolution from traditional cattle farming to a leading seed stock producer focused on genetics and production. The conversation highlights their commitment to regenerative practices, such as rotational grazing, and the integration of multiple proteins like chicken, pork, and lamb. Thomas and Emily reveal the logistics behind their direct-to-consumer sales, offering a glimpse into their meat bundle options and customer preferences. From sustainable practices to local sourcing and small batch processing, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in diversified livestock operations and the benefits of grass-finishing livestock for optimal nutrition.

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Born & Raised

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• (00:00) - Introduction to Today's Show

Travel with us from the vast plains of South Dakota to the sunny landscapes of Florida as we explore the transformative journey of Stephanie Anderson, a passionate advocate for regenerative agriculture. Discover how her upbringing on a traditional cattle ranch shaped her views and fueled her latest literary endeavor, "From the Ground Up: The Women Revolutionizing Regenerative Agriculture." Stephanie's insights into her family's unique grazing practices, combined with her generous offer of book copies, invite our Grazing Grass community to rethink conventional farming and embrace sustainable practices.

Unpacking the challenges faced by first-generation college students, we shine a light on the expectations from small-town life and the potential for meaningful careers within agriculture and beyond. Personal anecdotes paint a vivid picture of the stark contrasts and humorous realities of rural life versus broader societal norms. By highlighting the resilience of individuals like Stephanie, who ventured from traditional backgrounds into diverse fields, we emphasize the importance of sustainable agriculture as a viable and rewarding career path in today's economic climate.

The episode also delves into the broader impacts of regenerative practices on both personal and societal levels. From the pioneering work of farmers like Gabe Brown to the critical role of women and BIPOC individuals in reshaping our food systems, our discussion underscores the inclusivity and adaptability required in this movement. As we navigate through stories of innovative practices such as regenerative grazing and nutritious sprouting, Stephanie’s passion and perspective offer a beacon of hope for a sustainable agricultural future, encouraging listeners to consider how these practices can fortify our food systems in uncertain times.

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Stephanie Anderson's Writings

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Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Stephanie Anderson

Unlock the secrets to successful farm stacking and low-maintenance beekeeping as we share the inspiring journey of Adam Martin from B Strong Homestead in Cologa, Tennessee. Adam transitioned from city life to homesteading during the pandemic, adapting to the challenges and joys of raising dairy cows and embracing regenerative farming practices. From tackling a lack of electricity with a 12-volt milking system to utilizing bale grazing for winter pasture management, Adam provides practical insights and valuable lessons learned along the way.

Adam's story doesn't stop with cattle. His passion for sustainable living stretches into the world of beekeeping—a journey fueled by a lifelong love for honey. Discover how Adam moved from traditional methods to a more natural, minimalist approach, focusing on techniques like swarm trapping and the use of horizontal hives. This approach not only enhances insulation but also minimizes disturbances during inspections, allowing bees to thrive with minimal human intervention. Adam's experiences demonstrate how beekeeping can be a rewarding complement to any homestead.

Rounding out this enlightening episode, we delve into the broader benefits that honeybees bring to rural properties, enhancing garden and pasture growth through superior pollination. For those eager to try their hand at stacking enterprises, Adam shares a wealth of resources and practical tips, from must-read books to essential tools. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just beginning your homesteading adventure, Adam's insights and recommendations will inspire you to embrace imperfection and take a hands-on approach to farm life and beekeeping.

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Bee Kept

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Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Stacking Enterprises

Jared Sorensen, a passionate rancher and steward, shares his captivating journey through the world of ranching, revealing the unique challenges and triumphs of managing Secret Pass Livestock in northeastern Nevada. Growing up as the youngest of ten siblings, Jared chose a path less traveled, embracing hands-on experience over formal education. His time at Deseret Ranch in Florida taught him invaluable lessons in efficient cattle management and stewardship, fueling his desire for entrepreneurial ownership and legacy-building. Listen as Jared recounts how these formative experiences have shaped his approach to ranching and influenced the nurturing of an entrepreneurial spirit in his nine children.

The episode also delves into the cutting-edge realm of virtual fencing technology. We explore the challenges Jared faced over the past six months as he integrated this innovation into his ranching practices. Despite the technical hurdles and occasional setbacks, Jared remains optimistic about the potential of virtual fencing to revolutionize land management and enhance carbon sequestration. His journey is a testament to resilience and adaptability, underscoring the importance of profitability and sustainability in agriculture. Together, we discuss how these innovations align with holistic ranching practices and the biblical perspective of stewardship.

Finally, we highlight the educational initiatives of AgStewart, Jared's education and coaching company dedicated to helping family-owned farms thrive. From one-on-one guidance to virtual summits, AgStewart connects a global community of farmers and ranchers, providing essential education and accountability to achieve profitability, land regeneration, and sustainable business practices. As we wrap up, we invite listeners to join the growing regenerative agriculture community and embrace a lifestyle that values mental and emotional well-being, sustainable success, and meaningful relationships.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
The Profitable Regeneration Summit

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Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction and Overview

Theo Beaumont, from the forefront of agricultural innovation, joins us to share his journey and insights into the world of virtual fencing technology. From growing up to navigating a potential career in banking, Theo found his true calling at Halter, a trailblazer in virtual fencing based in New Zealand. We explore his pivotal role in the company’s expansion into the United States, uncovering how his passion for agricultural technology is helping to shape the future of livestock management across six states with aspirations for further growth.

Our conversation delves into Halter's strategic focus on the dairy and beef sector for the US, Australian, and New Zealand markets. Theo walks us through the company's shift from prioritizing labor savings to enhancing pasture management, a move that has significantly boosted efficiencies in dairy operations. Learn how Halter's commitment to refining virtual fencing technology is paving the way for meaningful changes in pasture-based systems, offering farmers new tools for success even in challenging terrains.

Implementing Halter’s cutting-edge collar technology involves more than just equipment; it’s about adaptability and support. Theo shares the meticulous process of integrating this system on ranches, from initial planning to the thrill of collaring cattle. Our discussion highlights the versatility of these collars in managing livestock using GPS, auditory cues, and gentle pulses. Theo’s advice for newcomers in agriculture—curiosity and hands-on experience—resonates throughout, encouraging anyone passionate about farming to connect with Halter and explore this transformative technology.

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Halter

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Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Today's Episode

What if you could transform your farming operation by improving efficiency and biosecurity, while also ensuring the health and productivity of your livestock? Join us as we welcome Wyatt Catron, a mobile food animal veterinarian, and Samantha Catron, a postdoc fellow at the University of Arkansas. Together, they share insights into the world of hair sheep farming and livestock health. Our conversation leads us to Paragon Ranch in Stillwater, Oklahoma, where we explore their innovative approach to raising low-input hair sheep with a focus on parasite resistance and maternal traits.

Our guests, Wyatt and Samantha, guide us through the journey of sheep breed selection and the importance of genetics in overcoming challenges like shearing and market demands. We discuss the benefits of hair sheep, delving into practical strategies to enhance flock quality and adaptability. Wyatt shares his international experiences, drawing fascinating comparisons between sheep farming practices in the United States and Australia. This discussion is enriched by insights into efficiency improvements, including innovative equipment and record-keeping that can optimize farm productivity.

As we delve deeper, the episode turns to the critical topic of farm biosecurity, offering practical advice on preventing disease spread. Wyatt and Samantha emphasize the significance of tailored biosecurity plans and the role veterinarians play in identifying potential blind spots. We also explore livestock health and reproduction management, focusing on the "four T's" for evaluating breeding animals. The episode concludes with a discussion on farm management and operational efficiency, showcasing the value of investing in the right equipment to streamline operations and maintain balance in the farming lifestyle.

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Catron Veterinary Services
Catron Veterinary Services on Facebook

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• (00:00) - e151. Wyatt Catron

On today's episode we have Dale Strickler of Regenerative Wisdom, a consulting company based in Wichita, Kansas. He shares his background of growing up on a diversified family farm and initially pursuing engineering before switching to agronomy after being inspired by the concept of using nature to solve problems in agriculture.

Dale discusses his journey of exploring regenerative practices, including rotational grazing, cover crops, and integrating multiple species like cattle, sheep, and poultry. He emphasizes the importance of feeding soil microbes through living roots and photosynthesis, rather than relying on tillage and external inputs.

Dale emphasizes the need to shift from the dominant corn and soybean monoculture to more diverse, perennial-based systems that mimic natural ecosystems. He advocates for optimizing production on smaller acreages, prioritizing a good quality of life over the pursuit of ever-increasing scale.

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Regenerative Wisdom

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Join us as we welcome Jock Gibson from Edinvale Farm in northern Scotland, who shares his inspiring journey into grass-fed beef farming amidst the region's challenging climate. Jock reflects on his unexpected return to the family farm in 2015 after the loss of his parents, a transition that marked a shift in the farm's focus towards highland cattle. Explore the evolution of Edinvale Farm, from its beginnings in the mid-70s under George's father to its current operations, and the benefits and challenges of raising highland cattle. Discover how the farm's connection to their butchery business adds value to their produce, alongside their commitment to being "Pasture for Life" certified, which guarantees a grass-only diet for their cattle.

Our discussion highlights the transformation towards sustainable farming practices, emphasizing the strategic integration of Edinvale Farm and the butcher shop to produce premium products that meet consumer demands. We discuss the introduction of Shorthorn genetics to improve carcass confirmation and finishing times while maintaining winter hardiness, as well as the importance of consumer feedback in shaping farm practices and breed choices. The balance between maintaining high-quality beef and meeting the economic challenges posed by the UK's beef market is a focal point, demonstrating the farm's resilience and adaptability.

Jock also offers insights into optimizing cattle nutrition and grazing in northern Scotland's unique environment. Listen as he explains the decision to integrate Luing cattle, adapting breeds to fit specific systems and comply with regulations. The conversation touches on reducing chemical use, shifting grazing strategies, and tackling issues like low selenium affecting pregnancy rates. The episode culminates in exploring sustainable beef production strategies, underscoring the significance of resilience and adaptability in farming practices amidst a challenging political and economic climate. Join us for a thoughtful exploration of Jock's journey and the broader themes of sustainable agriculture and meat production.

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Edinvale Farm
Macbeth Butchery

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Join us as we explore the fascinating world of regenerative farming with Peter Byck, the talented producer and director of the docuseries "Roots so Deep You Can See the Devil Down There." We chat about the inception and journey of creating this compelling series, focusing on a science project rooted in regenerative farming practices across the Southeast US. Peter shares insights on the unexpected findings from the farmers involved, the evolving science behind the project, and the profound impact of these practices on both the land and its people. He also opens up about his personal connection to nature and how it has influenced his work on the series, offering a comprehensive look into the making of this docuseries and the broader implications for sustainable agriculture.

Discover the importance of building relationships in agriculture and the critical role of soil health in combating climate change. We discuss the challenges of collaborating with a diverse team of scientists, each with unique perspectives and approaches, while celebrating the joys and complexities of forming friendships across different sectors. From the challenging climate of Phoenix to the contrasting environment of northeast Oklahoma, the conversation highlights the impact of environment on lifestyle and sustainability practices. Through these discussions, a commitment to leaving a better planet for future generations shines through, even while acknowledging the limitations and contradictions in our current lifestyles.

Peter and I also delve into adaptive multi-paddock (AMP) grazing and its comparison with conventional grazing practices. Listen in as we discuss how AMP grazing mimics the natural movements of bison on the Great Plains, promoting healthier soil and better water infiltration amidst climate extremes. The conversation extends to the global promotion of regenerative farming practices, emphasizing farmer-to-farmer and scientist-to-farmer dialogues. From using drones in farm management to offering advice for newcomers in filmmaking and agriculture, the episode is rich with resources and inspiration for those passionate about sustainable farming practices. Don't miss out on the invaluable insights and stories shared by Peter and our exploration of the future of farming.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Roots So Deep
Carbon Cowboys
Soil Health Academy

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What if small-scale farming could be both sustainable and profitable? Join us as Janelle Anderson from The Haven Farmstead in Southern Middle Tennessee shares her inspiring journey from Wisconsin to Tennessee's rolling landscapes. Janelle opens up about her experiences on a cow-calf operation near the Montana border, and her transition to a more intentional family life on a new piece of land. Discover the motivations, challenges, and triumphs of building a farm and home from the ground up, and how these life changes have led to a pursuit of a balanced, meaningful existence.

Our conversation takes a detailed look at the practical aspects of farm life. From the benefits of pastured poultry and the profound impact of poultry manure on pasture health, to the intricacies of grazing cattle on small acreages, Janelle offers valuable insights and tips. We explore how different coop styles for chickens and turkeys can impact efficiency and ease of use, and delve into innovative marketing strategies like bulk pricing, which simplify operations and enhance customer satisfaction. Whether it's starting with steers and heifers or the importance of mentorship in farming, Janelle provides invaluable wisdom for anyone interested in sustainable agriculture.

Wrapping up, we reflect on the significant role of regenerative grazing practices and how even small steps can lead to noticeable improvements in pasture health. In a world where juggling multiple responsibilities is common, Janelle reassures listeners that any movement is beneficial. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for aspiring farmers and homesteaders, touching on the importance of adaptability, community support, and a holistic approach to farming. Don't miss out on Janelle's expert advice and the heartfelt stories she shares from her journey in Southern Middle Tennessee.

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The Haven

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Original Music by Louis Palfrey