In this episode of The Shorthorn Bull Pen, Montie Soules sits down with newly appointed National Western Stock Show CEO Wes Allison on the grounds of the renovated complex. With the 2026 show set to debut all-new facilities, Wes shares what exhibitors and attendees can expect from the next era of this iconic event. Montie calls it “a new ballgame,” as the upgrades promise unmatched opportunities for breeders, associations and buyers alike. Plus, Wes reveals an exciting change to the Supreme Junior Heifer Drive you won’t want to miss.

Mark Anderson, Executive Director of the North American Limousin Foundation and President of the U.S. Beef Breeds Council, sits down with Montie Soules to discuss the critical role of accurate carcass data and certified ultrasound in advancing beef genetics. With decades of feedyard experience and leadership in breed collaboration, Anderson explores how genomics, data integrity and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence are transforming cattle breeding and production. This forward-thinking conversation reveals how the industry is leveraging innovation to boost efficiency and profitability for the next generation of cattle producers. 

Outgoing ASA President Lee Miller sits down with Montie Soules to reflect on six years of progress and the road ahead for the American Shorthorn Association. From expanding commercial relevance and improving genetic tools to building a united board focused on strategic growth, Miller shares how the Association is positioning itself for long-term success. With a firm grasp on both tradition and innovation, this conversation highlights how Shorthorn breeders are aligning with industry demands — delivering the kind of maternal strength, carcass quality and data-backed value today’s producers are looking for. 

Katrina Huffstuttler, immediate past president of the Livestock Publications Council and part of the Grant Company team, joins Montie Soules to explore the evolving landscape of agricultural communications. Drawing on her leadership in one of ag media’s most influential organizations, Katrina shares valuable insights on the challenges and opportunities facing PR professionals—from mastering social media’s fast pace to navigating artificial intelligence’s role in storytelling. This episode offers a unique inside look at how ag communicators are shaping the future of beef industry messaging and advocacy. 

As the face of R.A. Brown Ranch’s growing social media presence, sixth-generation rancher Tucker Brown is reaching millions of viewers each month, sharing the realities of ranch life and advocating for the beef industry. In this episode, Tucker joins Montie Soules to discuss the power of connecting with the public, the responsibility of producers to engage with consumers, and how he balances advocacy with the ranch’s commitment to raising high-quality bulls for commercial cattlemen.

Join Montie Soules for this exclusive conversation with Jon DeClerk, the incoming executive vice president of the American Simmental Association. With a background spanning livestock judging, academia and consulting, Jon brings a deep industry perspective to his new role. He and Montie talk about the value of multi-breed genetic evaluation through International Genetic Solutions, the importance of accuracy and transparency in EPDs, and why collaboration across breeds matters more than ever as the nation's cow herd shrinks and beef demand rises.

In this episode of The Shorthorn Bull Pen, host Montie Soules visits with Brian Bertelsen, vice president of field operations for U.S. Premium Beef. Brian shares insight into USPB’s producer-owned model, its long-standing partnership with National Beef, and how the value-based grid system works to reward producers for high-performing cattle. Tune in to learn more about how USPB’s data-driven approach helps producers optimize genetics, nutrition and management to market fed cattle in today’s value-focused beef landscape.

Tom Schultz of Neogen joins us for an insightful conversation on DNA testing and genetic evaluations. This episode covers key differences between seedstock and commercial DNA testing, why DNA sample processing takes time, and how genetic research is helping select against major health issues like bovine congestive heart failure. Tune in for a deep dive into the science behind smarter, data-driven decisions for your herd!

Season 2 of the Shorthorn Bull Pen kicks off with Chandler Mulvaney, director of grassroots advocacy and spokesperson development for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Host Montie Soules talks with Chandler about the vital role of industry advocates, whether they come from multi-generation ranching families or are just starting in beef production.

They discuss why having “boots-on-the-ground” spokespersons is critical for the industry’s future and highlight the benefits of junior beef breed associations in preparing young leaders to be confident, effective communicators. Tune in for an insightful conversation on shaping the next generation of beef advocates!

Welcome to the final episode of Season 1 of The Shorthorn Bull Pen! To celebrate the season's success, we’re bringing back a fan favorite—our very first episode. In this special re-air, host Montie Soules sits down with Congressman Frank Lucas, a proud Shorthorn breeder and passionate advocate for rural America. Congressman Lucas shares his insights on representing agricultural communities in Washington, D.C., and the critical role of educating congressional leaders about modern agriculture practices. Let’s revisit this inspiring conversation that started it all!