Texas Rural Report

Rural Texans Interview with Rancher Lee Wells


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Texas Rural Reporter Podcast

The Rancher, the Restaurant, and the Ag Commish Race

Guest: Lee Wells

Wildfires are burning across the Texas Panhandle again — and the conditions feel all too familiar.

In this episode, Suzanne sits down with rancher, restaurateur, and filmmaker Lee Wells to talk about:

  • What wildfire recovery really looks like for cattle families
  • The unseen logistics of feeding livestock on burned ground
  • Why the cattle market is out of balance — and what could fix it
  • The long-term risks to rural Texas if herd numbers don’t recover
  • The Texas Agriculture Commissioner race and why leadership matters
  • Rural economic development and the farm-to-table model

Lee shares firsthand stories from the 2024 Panhandle wildfires and explains why he believes rebuilding herd supply is critical to stabilizing beef prices and protecting ranchers long-term.

This conversation connects fire, food, markets, and policy — and what it all means for the future of rural Texas.

Wildfire Relief Efforts

Lee and his team are actively coordinating hay, feed, transport, and on-the-ground support for ranchers impacted by current wildfires.

If you would like to donate, volunteer, or learn more about the ongoing relief efforts:

Wildfire Documentary & Updates:
https://wereheredoc.com/

Community Impact & Disaster Relief Donations:
https://leewellsofficial.com/community-impact/

Funds help cover:

  • Hay and feed for displaced cattle
  • Fuel and transportation costs
  • Equipment and fencing repair
  • Coordinated relief logistics in fire-affected counties

Every contribution helps keep cattle fed and families afloat.

About the Documentary – We’re Here

Lee’s award-winning documentary We’re Here captures the human side of the 2024 Texas Panhandle wildfires — neighbor helping neighbor, ranchers rebuilding, and the resilience of rural communities.

The film has received multiple independent film festival awards and continues to gain national attention.

Learn more or watch the trailer at:
 https://wereheredoc.com/

Partner With The Texas Rural Reporter

If you believe rural Texas deserves serious coverage and honest conversations about agriculture, markets, and public policy, consider sponsoring the Texas Rural Reporter podcast.

We partner with businesses and organizations that support:

  • Rural enterprise
  • Local journalism
  • Agricultural leadership
  • Community resilience

Contact Suzanne to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.  

Email: [email protected]

Suzanne Bellsnyder
Texas Rural Reporter
Bringing a voice to rural Texas — because rural Texas is the BEST Texas.


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Texas Rural ReportBy Suzanne Bellsnyder