The Beef Podcast Show

In today's episode, we zoom into the complex landscape of feed efficiency - a determinant with increasingly significant implications for the sustainability and profitability of the worldwide beef industry. Dr. Andrew Foote offers insightful perspectives on managing nutrition in the beef industry by investigating the uniqueness of different cattle genetics, exploring the geographical locations where herds exist, and tackling animal health challenges. He also discusses his research findings on underlying traits, key drivers of feed efficiency across varying breeds, and the potential strategies to optimize feed efficiency in cattle herds.

“Our approach was to understand those basic traits of intake and growth. And then we'll let the animal breeders kind of come up with an index because your selection criteria in Iowa could be pretty different from New Mexico, for instance." - Dr. Andrew Foote

What you’ll learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (02:35) Introduction
• (04:40) Andrew's journey in the beef industry
• (07:58) Andrew's transition to Oklahoma State University
• (09:42) Explanation of the Meat Animal Research Center
• (15:43) Feed efficiency in various cattle breeds
• (21:33) Defining and understanding feed efficiency terms
• (27:13) Nutritional and management strategies to improve feed efficiency
• (37:48) The role of propionate, oxidation and regulation of feed intake
• (42:43) Future research
• (45:04) The three final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. Andrew Foote

Experience

• Current: Assistant Professor at Oklahoma State University
• Past: Research Physiologist at USDA-ARS, US Meat Animal Research Center

Background

• Ph.D., Animal Sciences (University of Kentucky)
• M.Sc., Agriculture, Animal Science (Tarleton State University)
• B.Sc., Animal Science (Tarleton State University)

Connect with our guest on Social Media: LinkedIn

The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- Bioverse

- dsm-firmenich

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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Responding to the call of the beef industry, our guest, Kara Smith, has ventured into new territories, leaving no stone unturned and boldly redefining what it means to be involved in the beef business from production to retail marketing. In this episode, Kara provides an in-depth insight into her journey, founding Colorado Craft Beef and inspiring an unconventional and trail-blazing trajectory in this livestock industry. She also shares the journey of tweaking strategies motivated by client needs and teaching the concept of "succeeding unconventionally" within their workspace.

“Let's let our customers be the heroes of the story. We're the guide. So let's figure out how our customers can be the heroes, and how we can provide them with an outstanding beef product that helps them live their lives to the fullest.” - Kara Smith

What you’ll learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:42) Introduction 
• (04:35) Founding a beef business: Colorado Craft Beef
• (08:00) The mindset of approaching beef industry as a business
• (11:09) Business model of Colorado Craft Beef
• (14:17) Food supply during the pandemic and customer trust
• (19:19) Challenges and risks in a traditional industry
• (23:19) Meat quality and choice
• (25:03) Livestock operations 
• (27:18) Marketing strategies and approaches
• (30:52) Personal life and other family business involvements
• (34:05) The three final questions

Meet the guest: Kara Smith, M.Sc. 

Experience

• Current: Co-founder at Colorado Craft Beef and owner at Double Slash N Enterprises
• Past: Assistant Professor at the North Carolina State University

Background

• M.Sc., Animal Science (West Texas A&M University)
• B.Sc., Animal Science (Texas Tech University)

Connect with our guest on Social Media: Linkedin

The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- Bioverse

- dsm-firmenich

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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I am delighted to introduce our guest, Dr. Haley Larson – an esteemed Assistant Professor at Kansas State University. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of ruminant nutrition. Dr. Larson shares her unique experiences and insights on topics such as gaining confidence when stepping into a room of industry professionals, the value of networking, and much more. Uncover hidden career opportunities in the feedlot industry. It was an engaging conversation, filled with thought-provoking moments!

"It's been fun to blend my academic legacy as well as my industry experience together in a really unique position. Who I can leave an impact on and the number of students that we can have come through our doors help benefit beef producers and beyond in the agricultural industry."

What you’ll learn:  

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:20) Introduction 
• (02:23) Dr. Larson's Background and Inspiration
• (05:21) Importance of Undergraduate Research Exposure
• (07:45) Encouraging Faculty Involvement in Undergraduate Research
• (11:20) Explanation of In Situ Versus Continuous Culture Fermentation
• (11:45) Advantages of in vitro systems and microbial fermentation
• (16:05) Transitioning from Academia to Industry
• (21:05) Teaching and Course Overview at K-State
• (25:55) Breaking the Typical Corporate Research Model
• (32:42) Non-traditional Students in Graduation
• (35:25) Creativity in Teaching
• (41:20) Ideation and Product Development
• (45:20) The final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. Haley Larson

Experience:

• Current: Assistant professor at Kansas State University

Background: 

• Ph.D., Ruminant Nutrition (University of Minnesota)
• B.Sc., Animal Science (University of Minnesota)

Connect with our guest on Social Media: LinkedIn

The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- Bioverse

- DSM

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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Effective pasture management is essential in beef production, being feed costs, particularly supplemental feeds, a major variable expense. Dr. Amanda Grev, a forage extension specialist, joins us in this episode to introduce "Flirts," a creative blend of flocks and herds. Dr. Grev's expertise lies in integrating various species for improved forage and grazing practices. She highlights the benefits of species mixing in pastures, including diverse grazing preferences, increased carrying capacity, and potential parasite management advantages. However, challenges such as fencing and infrastructure must be considered. Dr. Grev's team is also researching on the economic viability of flirt grazing, with early results favoring a combination of perennial and annual forages. 

"A flirt is essentially a blend of a flock and a herd, wherein different species graze together." 

What you’ll learn: 

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:20) Introduction 
• (04:36) Strategies to extend the grazing season
• (09:30) Productivity period for warm-season annuals
• (12:57) Potential impacts of different species and mixtures
• (22:55) Importance of rest for your pasture
• (27:56) Advantages and challenges of grazing different species together
• (37:37) The final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. Amanda Grev

Experience:

• Current: Forage Extension Specialist at the University of Maryland
• Past: Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Background: 

• Ph.D., Animal Science (University of Minnesota-Twin Cities)
• M.Sc., Animal Science (University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
• B.Sc., Equine Science and Animal Science (North Dakota State University)

Connect with our guest on Social Media: LinkedIn

The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- Bioverse

- DSM

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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That's my first episode as one of the hosts for The Beef Podcast Show, and to celebrate that, I had an exciting talk with Dr. Jason Banta, an animal nutrition expert. High-quality beef production hinges on proper nutrition and management. Many cow-calf producers rely on forages as their primary nutrient source, demanding effective forage management for optimal herd growth. Dr. Banta emphasizes aligning forage types with the region, maintaining proper stocking rates, and focusing on forage quality, mineral supplementation, and drought management. He also shares valuable insights on raising replacement heifers and recommends a comprehensive mineral supplementation program for herd health.

"For most producers, the key to a successful nutrition program is going to start with that forage program." 

What you’ll learn:  

• (00:00) Highlight
• (02:00) Introduction 
• (05:01) Analysis of regional forage variation and its importance
• (06:52) Impact of drought on feeding forages
• (16:49) Mineral analysis in confined cattle context
• (26:28) Tips for developing bred heifers
• (34:06) Choosing a good mineral supplement
• (41:13) The final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. Jason Banta

Experience:

• Current: Associate Professor at Texas A&M University

Background: 

• Ph.D., Animal Nutrition (Oklahoma State University)
• M.Sc, Animal Science (West Texas A&M University)
• B.Sc., Animal Science (Texas A&M University)

The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- Bioverse

- DSM

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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The management of cattle heat stress has emerged as a critical concern, demanding innovative solutions to ensure the well-being of livestock and the quality of beef products. In this episode, I talk with Dr. A. J. Tarpoff about the challenges and advancements related to cattle heat stress management and the recent innovations in feedlot practices, emphasizing weather monitoring, adaptable managing practices, heat stress mitigation strategies, and enhancing existing feedlot practices. With a firm belief in striving for the comfort, productivity, and health of cattle, A.J. highlights the interconnectivity of those factors in securing the quality of beef products, thereby ensuring a resilient and sustainable future. 

“We're understanding more about utilizing the comfort, behavior, productivity, and health together and using that to our advantage, to the animal's advantage to reduce risk, increase health, increase performance, increase cattle comfort on a daily basis." - Dr. A.J. Tarpoff

What you’ll learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (02:52) Introduction 
• (09:09) Choosing veterinary practice for the beef business
• (12:12) Practice and experience with import and export duties in Canada
• (17:18) Mitigating the impacts of weather on cattle
• (23:07) Importance of water 
• (29:42) Managing heat stress in cattle
• (40:00) The impact of simple changes
• (41:05) Industry changes and the future of animal health and wellbeing
• (44:26) The three final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. A. J. Tarpoff

Experience

• Current: Associate Professor and Beef Extension Veterinarian at Kansas State University

Background

• M.Sc. (Kansas State University)
• D.V.M. (Kansas State University)
• B.Sc. (Kansas State University)

The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- Bioverse

- DSM

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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Sustainability in beef cattle production has become a vital concept addressing long-term environmental, societal, and economic welfare. As global demand for high-quality protein rises, balancing it with responsible resource management is paramount. In this episode, we engage in an insightful conversation with Dr. Jacquelyn Prestegaard-Wilson, an assistant professor and livestock sustainability specialist at Texas A&M University. She highlights practical strategies for beef producers, including grazing management and forage analysis, while addressing regional challenges. Dr. Prestegaard-Wilson underscores the impact of empathy and connection in sharing beef's sustainability narrative, emphasizing active listening and open conversations to bridge the gap between producers and consumers.

"As a beef producer, try making small adjustments here and there to see if they work. See if they work for you." 

What you’ll learn:  

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:30): Introduction 
• (12:33) Settling in Texas: challenges and opportunities
• (17:33) Strategies for sustaining operations
• (24:02) Contemplating the modern definition of sustainability and past progress
• (28:15) Sustainability challenge for producers
• (34:48) The importance of extension program for sustainability
• (40:56) The final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. Jacquelyn Prestegaard-Wilson

Experience:

• Current: Assistant Professor at the Texas A&M University
• Past: Postdoctoral Data Research Intern in Select Sires Inc.

Background: 

• Ph.D. in Dairy Cattle Nutrition (Virginia Tech)
• M.Sc. in Ruminant Nutrition (University of Missouri-Columbia)
• B.Sc. in Animal Science (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign)

Connect with our guest on Social Media: LinkedIn

The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- Bioverse

- DSM

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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Extension programs are essential for the beef industry, ensuring accessibility to the latest research and best practices in forage management. By promoting efficient forage use and sustainable grazing, these services bolster the beef sector’s growth, productivity, and resilience. In this episode, Jeff Semler, M.Sc., a distinguished University of Maryland Extension Educator, delves into captivating forage research. He shares insights about optimizing forage production under traditional and organic settings, unveiling their impact on beef output. Discover Semler's role in knowledge transfer and advocating for sustainable agriculture. 

"As long as extension remains viable, our ongoing endeavor should be to unite people, as this has consistently been our underlying strength." - Jeff Semler

What you’ll learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:15) Introduction 
• (08:15) Changing extension over 35 years
• (14:21) Transition to the challenges in farming
• (21:32) A conversation about the forage base for cattle
• (26:30) The effect of technological changes
• (41:59) The final questions

Meet the guest: Jeff Semler, M.Sc.

Experience:

• Current: Extension Educator at the University of Maryland Extension

Background: 

• M.Sc. in Animal Sciences (University of Connecticut)
• B.Sc. in Animal Science (West Virginia University)

Connect with our guest on Social Media: LinkedIn

The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- Bioverse

- DSM

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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Skeletal muscle growth constitutes a crucial multifaceted biological process for meat quality, particularly in beef production, with a notable focus on beef marbling. Comprehending these intricate elements and their interplay is essential for producing premium meat that aligns with consumer and market preferences. In this episode, Dr. Marcio Duarte, Assistant Professor at the University of Guelph and an authority in meat science and muscle biology, delves into the influence of skeletal muscle growth on meat excellence. He underscores the connection between maternal nutrition during the cow's final trimester and the calf's dietary intake in its first 250 days. 

"The most suitable time frame to enhance marbling deposition is from the final trimester of gestation up to 250 days after the calf's birth." - Dr. Marcio Duarte

What you’ll learn: 

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:34) Introduction 
• (09:11) Enhancing Marbling Through Nutrition and Timing
• (13:09) Maternal nutrition during the cow's final trimester
• (16:01) Early Calf Nutrition for Marbling Success
• (36:49) Understanding Cellular Level Effects on Tissue
• (45:18) Nutrient Manipulation in Livestock
• (48:38) The final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. Marcio Duarte

Experience:

• Current: Assistant Professor at the University of Guelph
• Past: Assistant Professor at the Federal University of Viçosa

Background: 

• Ph.D. in Animal Sciences (Federal University of Viçosa)
• M.Sc. in Animal Sciences (Federal University of Viçosa)
• B.Sc. in Animal Science (Federal University of Viçosa)

Connect with our guest on Social Media: LinkedIn

The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- Bioverse

- DSM

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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With advances in genetics and livestock practices, the beef industry has evolved over the years. However, current references for vitamin and mineral inclusion are outdated, failing to address the animals' modern needs. Our guest (and also our co-host!), Dr. Stephanie Hansen, a prominent researcher and professor in feedlot nutrition at Iowa State University, focuses on optimizing growth and stress resilience in cattle. Dr. Hansen's research has revealed interesting links between beta-agonists like ractopamine hydrochloride and reduced external fat in cattle, benefiting both the industry's economic viability and sustainability. These findings emphasize the importance of up-to-date research to meet the changing demands of livestock production.

"I wanted to ensure that animals wouldn't get sick, and I was eager to explore ways to prevent illnesses in them." - Dr. Stephanie Hansen

What you’ll learn:

• (00:00) Highlight
• (01:30) Introduction  
• (11:03) Discussing teaching and research 
• (21:33) Research on beta agonists
• (25:15) The economic and environmental benefits of ractopamine
• (30:21) Feed efficiency and sustainability 
• (33:54) The difference between classes of beta agonists
• (42:17) Travel experiences and interests
• (54:29) Final questions

Meet the guest: Dr. Stephanie Hansen

Experience

• Current: Full Professor at the Iowa State University
• Past: Associate Professor at the Iowa State University

Background

• Ph.D. Nutrition (the North Carolina State University)
• M.Sc. Nutrition (the North Carolina State University)
• B.Sc. (the Iowa State University)

Connect with our guest on Social Media: Linkedin

The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:

- Bioverse

- DSM

𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.

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