Steak Bites

Welcome to Raising the Steaks, a special series within the Steak Bites podcast that takes you behind the scenes at Colorado Craft Beef. We tackle listener questions, break down industry trends, and dig into the real issues shaping our food system, health, and the future of American ranching. No fluff—just honest conversations, expert insights, and a closer look at what it takes to bring high-quality beef from our ranch to your plate.

In this episode, we dive deep into what truly makes a great steak—from genetics and grazing to dry aging and consumer cooking habits. Kara shares the behind-the-scenes decisions that shape every cut at Colorado Craft Beef, emphasizing the intentionality and craftsmanship embedded in every step of the process.

You'll learn why 21-day dry aging is a non-negotiable for CCB, how thoughtful pasture management and harvest timing elevate quality, and how the industry is shifting to meet a more curious, informed consumer. Kara also discusses the evolution of her role from rancher's daughter to industry leader and consumer advocate, bridging generational gaps with a modern, transparent approach.

We wrap up with practical insights: which beef cuts are most underrated (hint: don't sleep on sirloin) and cooking truths that elevate the eating experience. Whether you're a beef nerd or just looking to make your next steak unforgettable, this episode brings together the science, the strategy, and the soul behind the plate.

In this episode of Steak Bites, we sit down with Pete Roberts — co-founder of Origin USA and Jocko Fuel, and a fierce advocate for American manufacturing, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship.

What starts as a sharp, 30-minute dive into the erosion of quality, the consequences of outsourcing, and the decline of U.S. industry evolves into a full-spectrum conversation about business, legacy, culture, and the future of the American dream.

Pete breaks down how consumers were conditioned to trade quality for convenience, how deceptive "Made in the USA" labels mislead the public, and why rebuilding domestic manufacturing is more than just a business decision — it's a mission. With zero outside capital, Pete has built a $200M+ vertically integrated brand that manufactures everything from boots to jeans to supplements, all on American soil.

We also draw unexpected parallels between the beef and apparel industries — exploring the importance of traceability, source transparency, and what it means to honor the story behind the product.

In the second half, Pete shares his powerful analogy of entrepreneurship as raising a monster — one that can either protect or destroy depending on how it's fed. He opens up about raising his children on the land, fostering independent thought, and why he believes Gen Z may lead a modern American renaissance rooted in wellness, truth, and legacy.

Whether you're a business builder, a critical thinker, or someone questioning what we've been sold — and where we go from here — this conversation is for you.

🔗 Connect with Pete Roberts

• Origin USA
• Jocko Fuel
• Instagram

Thank you for joining us on this journey. If you enjoyed today's episode, please rate, review, and share the Steak Bites podcast. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners like you.

We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, questions, and suggestions by contacting us at [email protected]

For more information about Colorado Craft Beef, visit us online at coloradocraftbeef.com

Stay connected, stay inspired, and keep fueling your legacy. Until next time, savor each bite of existence and let your actions resonate with the wonder of the world.

Welcome to Raising the Steaks, a special series within the Steak Bites podcast that takes you behind the scenes at Colorado Craft Beef. We answer your questions, unpack industry shifts, and dive into the real issues shaping our food, health, and the future of American ranching. No fluff—just raw insight, expert takes, and an honest look at what it really takes to raise high-quality beef from pasture to plate.

In this episode, Jay Knight interviews Colorado Craft Beef co-founder Kara Smith for a deep look at spring branding, animal health, and raising cattle the right way—from the ground up. Kara shares how branding isn't just a regulatory requirement, but a meaningful tradition rooted in low-stress livestock handling, generational legacy, and a tight-knit ranching community.

As the conversation unfolds, Kara draws powerful parallels between raising calves and raising children—highlighting how both require planning, care, and working with nature, not against it. She explains how seasonal cycles, colostrum, and vaccines all play key roles in setting cattle up for lifelong health, and how the rhythms of the land guide everything from breeding to nutrition.

The episode closes with Kara's honest take on raising daughters in wide-open ranch country—teaching independence, resilience, and responsibility in a landscape full of both beauty and risk.

Whether you're a beef lover, a parent, or someone curious about where your food really comes from, this episode offers a grounded, transparent look at the life behind the brand.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. If you enjoyed today's episode, please rate, review, and share the Steak Bites podcast. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners like you.

We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, questions, and suggestions by contacting us at [email protected]

For more information about Colorado Craft Beef, visit us online at coloradocraftbeef.com

Stay connected, stay inspired, and keep fueling your legacy. Until next time, savor each bite of existence and let your actions resonate with the wonder of the world.

In this episode of Steak Bites, UFC champion Raquel Pennington shares a powerful look at how mental discipline, nutrition, and motherhood intersect in her life as both an elite athlete and intentional parent. She details how transitioning to a whole-food, largely carnivore-style diet—centered on high-quality red meat, eggs, fruit, and vegetables—dramatically improved her skin, energy, sleep, recovery, and overall performance.

Even outside of fight camp, Raquel continues to feel stronger, leaner, and more balanced by prioritizing nutrient-dense, ancestral foods. The conversation moves from the octagon to the kitchen table, as Raquel opens up about raising her daughter in today's ultra-processed world and her desire to simplify nutrition and protect long-term wellness. From hormone health to mental clarity, Raquel's story challenges mainstream food narratives and offers a grounded, holistic perspective on fueling strength—for yourself and your family.

Highlights include:

• Raquel's 100% beef-based diet during fight camp—and why she's still following it.
• How cutting processed sugar changed her sleep, skin, and training.
• The mental side of being a professional fighter and mom.
• Why being "rich" in life means something deeper than money.
• The truth about raising strong daughters in a world full of toxic food and messages.
• Honey as a natural pre-workout and what she's feeding her family now

Thank you for joining us on this journey. If you enjoyed today's episode, please rate, review, and share the Steak Bites podcast. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners like you.

We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, questions, and suggestions by contacting us at [email protected]

For more information about Colorado Craft Beef, visit us online at coloradocraftbeef.com

Stay connected, stay inspired, and keep fueling your legacy. Until next time, savor each bite of existence and let your actions resonate with the wonder of the world.

Ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes in rural veterinary medicine—or what it takes to ensure the health and welfare of the animals that become part of our food system? In this episode of Steak Bites, Dr. Darcy joins us to share her journey as a rural veterinarian and the lessons learned along the way.

From middle-of-the-night calving calls to helping ranchers navigate vaccine protocols and antibiotic decisions, Dr. Darcy brings a practical, compassionate, and deeply human perspective to animal health. She talks about the long hours, the responsibility, and the grit it takes to serve producers who depend on her, while reflecting on the bond and trust that form between ranchers and vets.

Whether you're a steak lover, a parent who cares about where your food comes from, or someone curious about the real people behind rural life, this conversation will stick with you. It's a powerful reminder that good beef doesn't start in the grocery store—it starts with people who care, and a whole lot of hard work.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What it's really like to be the vet ranchers call at 2 a.m.
• How vaccine and antibiotic decisions are made with both care and science in mind.
• Why building trust between vets and producers is vital to animal welfare.
• How communication can bridge the gap between regulations and common sense.
• Why rural veterinary work is more than a career—it's a calling

🎧 Perfect for:

• Consumers who care about animal welfare.
• Parents who want to know what's behind the beef on their dinner table.
• Curious minds who want a window into life on the ranch.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. If you enjoyed today's episode, please rate, review, and share the Steak Bites podcast. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners like you.

We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, questions, and suggestions by contacting us at [email protected]

For more information about Colorado Craft Beef, visit us online at coloradocraftbeef.com

Stay connected, stay inspired, and keep fueling your legacy. Until next time, savor each bite of existence and let your actions resonate with the wonder of the world.

In this episode of Steak Bites, Kara Smith sits down with Katharine Lotspeich for a wide-ranging conversation on the intersection of food systems, policy, and how what we eat shapes the future of our nation. Katharine brings her unique perspective, growing up on a dairy farm and working in both state legislatures and the agritech sector, providing invaluable insight into how food and agricultural policies are created—and how they often miss the mark when applied in real-world settings.

Together, Kara and Katharine explore the disconnect between food production and consumption in America. They discuss how policies like the Farm Bill, which was created during the Great Depression, continue to influence both food production and food assistance programs today, and why it remains misunderstood despite its far-reaching impact. Katharine also discusses the persistence of food insecurity in a nation as food-abundant as the U.S., and why it is a solvable issue with the right changes to policy and public perception.

The conversation touches on important national themes such as American agriculture's role in global trade, tariffs, and food price volatility, alongside the broader conversation of health and nutrition in the U.S. The negative impact of processed foods on public health is explored, and Katharine highlights why returning to whole foods and animal proteins is crucial for improving health outcomes. From historical lessons like the decline of the British Empire due to poor nutrition to current shifts toward better food transparency, this episode is a deep dive into how we can reshape food policy to better nourish the people and the nation.

Katharine also shares actionable steps everyday consumers can take to advocate for smarter food policies that benefit both their health and the future of American agriculture. Colorado Craft Beef plays an important role in this movement, actively working to connect consumers with food that nourishes both body and nation.

What You'll Learn:

• How food policy impacts your grocery bill and health
• Why food insecurity still exists in the U.S. despite its food abundance
• The power and misunderstood impact of the Farm Bill
• How processed foods have influenced American health and history
• Katharine's thoughts on the one food policy she would change immediately
• How Colorado Craft Beef is contributing to real change in food systems and policy

Guest: Katharine Lotspeich – Ag policy expert, daughter of dairy farmers, and co-host of Millennial Ag Podcast. Check out her podcast and more at Millennial Ag.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. If you enjoyed today's episode, please rate, review, and share the Steak Bites podcast. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners like you.

We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, questions, and suggestions by contacting us at [email protected]

For more information about Colorado Craft Beef, visit us online at coloradocraftbeef.com

Stay connected, stay inspired, and keep fueling your legacy. Until next time, savor each bite of existence and let your actions resonate with the wonder of the world.

In this episode, Jay Knight sits down with Kara Smith to explore the realities of spring on the ranch and the deep connection ranchers have with nature. Kara explains how spring turnout—when cattle are released to graze—isn't just about a calendar date. It's a careful balance of temperature, moisture, and pasture readiness, especially in the unique Colorado Sandhills, where native grass supports sustainable, efficient beef production.

They dive into the complexities of managing cattle on native rangeland, touching on topics like short growing seasons, animal health, and the importance of avoiding overgrazing. The conversation also addresses common food labels like "grass-fed," "organic," and "regenerative," and the disconnect between those marketing terms and the real practices that drive ethical ranching. Kara emphasizes transparency and respect for the animals in their care—ensuring they only ever experience "one bad day."

The episode wraps with a heartfelt look at what it means to raise beef with intention and honor—and sets the stage for the next episode, which will explore the science behind a great steak and how to cook it during peak grilling season.

Key Topics:

• What "spring turnout" really looks like
• How nature dictates ranching timelines
• The power of native grass in sustainable beef
• Breaking down consumer labels: truth vs. marketing
• Ethical ranching and honoring the animal
• Preview of steak science and grilling tips in the next episode

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to this episode of Raising the Steaks! If you enjoyed this conversation, hit that follow or subscribe button so you never miss an episode—we're just getting started.

Got questions about ranch life, how we raise our cattle, or what really goes into great beef? We'd love to hear from you! Drop your questions or ideas in the reviews or message us directly on Instagram @ColoradoCraftBeef. You might just hear your topic featured in a future episode as we take you even deeper behind the scenes.

Until next time—keep asking questions, stay curious, and don't forget to raise the steaks.

Jack Arnold joins the podcast to discuss his passion for barbecue and live fire cooking, which started at a young age under the influence of his Texas-born father. He shares how cooking over charcoal became a lifelong love, bringing people together and creating lasting memories. Jack explains how he turned this passion into a career by hosting high-end barbecue experiences, partnering with top brands, and working with luxury hotels to elevate the backyard barbecue into a five-star experience. His philosophy centers around building community through food, connecting people to their meals, and valuing experiences over material things.

The conversation highlights the value of simplicity in food, particularly in steak and burgers, while emphasizing the unique customization options available through Colorado Craft Beef. Jack Arnold discusses his signature event experience, which combines expertly timed steak preparation with live music and audience engagement, creating a memorable atmosphere. He explains his focus on hosting events at luxury hotels and resorts, detailing his 2025 schedule of events. Jack also shares insights on partnerships, emphasizing collaboration over self-promotion, and how working with brands like Colorado Craft Beef, Jocko Fuel, Grilla Grills and others has elevated the experience. Lastly, the discussion shifts toward networking and collaboration, with Jack offering advice on fostering meaningful partnerships beyond the barbecue industry.

This episode highlights an inspiring entrepreneurial journey driven by passion, sacrifice, and a deep commitment to honoring family legacy. The guest shares how the loss of his father in 2019 motivated him to pursue his dream of hosting barbecue events, building a career that has taken him across the country and internationally. He emphasizes the importance of having a strong support system, bringing infectious energy, and staying committed through years of hard work. Reflecting on memorable experiences, from elite industry events to personal milestones, he expresses gratitude for the relationships and opportunities that have shaped his path. Looking ahead, he remains dedicated to growing his unique movement, ensuring it continues to thrive for years to come.

Tune in to hear how Jack Arnold turned his lifelong passion for barbecue into a five-star career, transforming the art of cooking over fire into unforgettable experiences at luxury resorts. From his deep connection to family and food to his game-changing partnerships with top brands like CCB, Jack's story is a masterclass in passion, perseverance, and building meaningful connections. If you're into great food, inspiring entrepreneurial journeys, and behind-the-scenes insights into high-end barbecue, this episode is a must-listen!

Thank you for joining us on this journey. If you enjoyed today's episode, please rate, review, and share the Steak Bites podcast. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners like you.

We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, questions, and suggestions by contacting us at [email protected]

For more information about Colorado Craft Beef, visit us online at coloradocraftbeef.com

Stay connected, stay inspired, and keep fueling your legacy. Until next time, savor each bite of existence and let your actions resonate with the wonder of the world.

Welcome to Raising the Steaks, a special series within the Steak Bites podcast that takes you behind the scenes at Colorado Craft Beef. We tackle listener questions, break down industry trends, and dig into the real issues shaping our food system, health, and the future of American ranching. No fluff—just honest conversations, expert insights, and a closer look at what it takes to bring high-quality beef from our ranch to your plate.

In this episode of Raising the Steaks, we dive into the philosophy and future of Colorado Craft Beef. The discussion centers on staying true to their expertise—producing high-quality beef—rather than expanding into other proteins. We explore how transparency in the supply chain builds trust, the importance of consumer education, and why focusing on one thing and doing it exceptionally well is a key to success.

Listeners will get an inside look at how CCB continues to grow while maintaining its core values, how they respond to customer demand, and what's next for the company. If you're passionate about great beef and want to understand what makes this brand different, this episode is a must-listen!

Topics Covered:

🔥 The growth and evolution of Colorado Craft Beef

🥩 Why they remain focused solely on beef

🔍 The importance of transparency and consumer education

💯 How quality and consistency drive customer loyalty

🚀 What's next for Colorado Craft Beef

Thank you for joining us on this journey. If you enjoyed today's episode, please rate, review, and share the Steak Bites podcast. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners like you.

We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, questions, and suggestions by contacting us at [email protected]

For more information about Colorado Craft Beef, visit us online at coloradocraftbeef.com

Stay connected, stay inspired, and keep fueling your legacy. Until next time, savor each bite of existence and let your actions resonate with the wonder of the world.

In this episode of Steak Bites, host Kara Smith sits down with Jamie Cochran, Chief Operating Officer of Echelon Front, to explore leadership, resilience, and the power of extreme ownership. Echelon Front, founded by former Navy SEALs Jocko Willink and Leif Babin, is built on the principles outlined in their bestselling book, Extreme Ownership.

Jamie shares her unconventional career path—leaving a secure role in higher education to take a risk with Echelon Front. As she initially stepped into an administrative role, her willingness to check her ego, add value, and embrace leadership ultimately led her to become COO of the company.

The conversation dives into the core principle of extreme ownership—taking full responsibility for one's circumstances to drive personal and professional success. Kara and Jamie explore how shifting perspective from resentment to responsibility can transform leadership within both businesses and families. They discuss the military-inspired concept of cover and move, emphasizing that teamwork isn't always about equal effort, but about providing the necessary support to achieve a shared mission.

The discussion also highlights the power of discipline, intentionality, and simplicity in both personal health and leadership—especially as a parent. Jamie and Kara explore how prioritizing health through proper nutrition, consistent routines, and high-quality food choices creates a strong foundation for showing up effectively in all aspects of life. They emphasize the role of positive leadership within the family, showing how being intentional with nutrition and meal planning sets a crucial example for children.

Ultimately, this conversation reinforces that strong leadership—whether in the home or in professional life—starts with taking care of oneself, modeling consistency, and creating an environment where making good choices is simple and sustainable.

Learn More About Leadership & Extreme Ownership:

🔗 Echelon Front Website

🔗 Leadership Development Programs

🔗 Extreme Ownership Academy

🔗 Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink & Leif Babin – Get the Book

Join us at Women's Assembly this fall.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. If you enjoyed today's episode, please rate, review, and share the Steak Bites podcast. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners like you.

We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, questions, and suggestions by contacting us at [email protected]

For more information about Colorado Craft Beef, visit us online at coloradocraftbeef.com

Stay connected, stay inspired, and keep fueling your legacy. Until next time, savor each bite of existence and let your actions resonate with the wonder of the world.