On this episode of Sorting Pen, we’re joined by Dr. John Madigan. Best known for developing the Madigan Squeeze Procedure, Dr. Madigan walks us through this simple yet groundbreaking technique used to treat neonatal maladjustment syndrome (often called “dummy foal syndrome") and how it’s now being applied to calves as well. Hear why it works, how it can be used on the ranch, the research behind it, and much more in this conversation.

If you heard Dr. Madigan speak at our Convention last December, this episode builds on that conversation. And if you didn’t, it’s a great introduction to a practical tool that’s making a difference in the field.

Note: In the horse world, historically, breeders termed these foals that were disoriented, wandering, and not nursing the mare, a ‘dummy foal’.  In veterinary medicine, they are better referred to as the maladjusted foal. 

Episode Resources: 

• Dr. Madigan's Website (https://www.johnmadigandvm.com)
• Videos on "The Squeeze"

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As he prepares to term out of serving in the California State Legislature, Assemblymember James Gallagher joins us for a real, wide-ranging conversation about his time in office and what’s next.

He shares his background in agriculture, what he’s learned about navigating Sacramento, and how he’s worked to elevate rural issues. We also discuss the passing of Congressman Doug LaMalfa and how that influenced his decision to run for Congress.

From rising costs and fuel prices to ongoing regulatory challenges, Gallagher talks through the issues facing farmers and ranchers today, along with the impact of Prop 50 and the road ahead.

It’s a straightforward conversation about policy, agriculture, and why California is still worth fighting for.

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It's hot! What's up with California’s weather being unusually warm this March? Meteorologist & Climatologist Brian Bledsoe joins us to explain why this spring is feeling more like summer so far, break down this winter’s rainfall, and discuss whether a potential El Niño or even a super El Niño could be on the horizon. We also dive into the weather and situation with the devastating wildfires ripping through Nebraska cattle country.

Episode Resources: 

Visit brianbledsoeweather.com to connect with Brian. 

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On March 5, initial findings from a new California study examining ways to improve produce safety—particularly on the Central Coast—were unveiled. The multi-year study was conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in partnership with the Western Center for Food Safety at the University of California, Davis, the California Department of Food and Agriculture, and agricultural stakeholders across the region.

Central Coast cattle ranchers are among those stakeholders. In this episode, we are joined by Jack Rice, owner of Western Resource Strategies LLC, to discuss why ranchers have a seat at the table, how this collaborative study came together, and his takeaways from the newly released findings.

Episode Resources: 

• Constituent Update— FDA and Partners in the Central Coast Agricultural Region of California Share Findings from Multi-year Environmental Study
• Connect with the RTAP team at calcattlemenfoundation.org/RTAP

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On this episode, we’re honored to sit down with current National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) President Gene Copenhaver and President-Elect Kim Brackett for a conversation to get to know them. They share insights from their leadership journeys, discuss the priorities shaping NCBA’s agenda, and reflect on what's ahead for them in their leadership roles with NCBA.

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National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) Executive Director of Government Affairs Sigrid Johanes is back on Sorting Pen. In this episode from CattleCon 2026 in Nashville, Sigrid shares about the years of work behind the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Also hear the latest on the threats of New World screwworm and the Asian Longhorned Tick. 

Episode Resources:

• Secretary Kennedy's Selfie from CattleCon
• Progressive Farmer: "Kennedy to Cattlemen: Produce More Beef After Pyramid Reversal"

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In this episode of Sorting Pen, we’re sorting through CCA’s early 2026 legislative efforts as lawmakers return to Sacramento for the second year of a two-year session. CCA's Vice President of Government Affairs Kirk Wilbur joins to talk about what CCA is watching early on, and whether the lack of major new threats so far is encouraging—or just the calm before the storm. We also dive into CCA’s request for funding for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Wolf Program, Kirk's upcoming opportunity to testify on human-wildlife coexistence, and more.

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To open the first episode of 2026, host Katie Roberti is joined by CCA President Rick Roberti for a conversation on the ongoing gray wolf crisis, thoughts on his final year as president, and what lies ahead for CCA. Together, they also take time to honor and remember the leadership and lasting legacy of Congressman Doug LaMalfa.

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How do you turn an idea like legalizing livestock composting into law in California? In part two of this two-part series, we go behind the scenes with researchers Laura Snell and Dr. Kasey DeAtley to cover the bill itself, how it moved through the Legislature, and what it means for ranchers going forward. 

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This episode was recorded where the cowboys shop—D Bar M — in downtown Reno. Hear from the owner himself about this iconic western store before our 109th annual convention takes place in Reno next week!

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