American Cattlemen Podcast

Christensen Genetics

The voice of the American Cattlemen, Gale McKinney, sits down with Seth Christensen at the American Akaushi Convention in Kansas City, Missouri, to talk about the cattle industry. Seth is an enthusiastic participant, and these two industry professionals pushed the chairs back and provided you with some great feedback on our industry! What a great conversation with Seth Christensen of Christensen Genetics. A bright young man with a passion for helping his clients find genetics that will assist them in building the cattle they want in their herd. We delve into the need for better education of the consumer market, with a thorough discussion on the importance of the entire cattle industry's participation in this critical area. Seth Christensen has owned and operated a cattle business since 2004, making his living from cattle.  With 20 years of experience in genetic and business management, in addition to a degree in Economics from Utah State University, Seth is well-qualified to answer your questions and help you reach your goals for your herd.  Seth's days are spent identifying and selecting the best beef cattle genetics in the world, and helping his clients incorporate them into their herds. Christensen Genetics exists to help you build your dream herd.  Cattlemen and women are as unique as the environments in which they operate, with distinct business models and genetic needs.  With clients in 40 states and 12 countries, representing over 21,000 head of cattle, Christensen Genetics understands the importance of matching the right genetic package with the right ranch.  Regardless of your herd size, breed of choice, or point of sale, Christensen Genetics is here to help move your herd towards your established goals. Seth also hosts a great podcast called “Got Any Cows,” which can be found on most major podcast platforms.
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast please check out the website:  www.americancattlemen.com
Sponsors:
DMTC Consulting
Rawhide Portable Corrals
Udder Tech Inc.

Akaushi Beef the Texas Way

Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Gale McKinney, He's the publisher of the American Cattlemen, and he sits down with the Martinez family with the 2F Akaushi Ranch. The Martinezes are a great family, and 2F Akaushi Ranch is a model of raising beef for the consumer! I had a great time interacting with this family at the American Akaushi Convention!  They are excited about the cattle industry, and this multi-generational ranch will continue to serve the cattle industry long into the future.  Felo, Stephanie, and Alyssa, thank you for being one of my very favorite interviews!
This cattle ranch family is charting its course and sustainability in the industry by selling beef.
Rancho Santa Fe is home to Felo and Stephanie Martinez, located south of San Isidro, Texas. Their family-owned and operated ranching business has been breeding, producing, and raising commercial cattle since 1984. They have improved the quality of South Texas beef by implementing Certified Akaushi Wagyu genetics. To make sure every cut of meat meets their standards, they oversee our cattle from our ranch to your table. We are proudly offering our premium Wagyu beef to local restaurants and households in the Rio Grande Valley.
“The Martinez family has been breeding and raising commercial cattle since 1984 on the family’s 1927 Rancho Santa Fe. Using certified Akaushi Wagyu genetics, the 2F Akaushi Ground Beef is a special 80/20 blend of chuck, rump, and steak trimmings, and is all-natural, hormone-free, and contains no antibiotics. 2F Akaushi Beef offers premium Wagyu beef to restaurants and households.” 
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.
 
American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:
DMTC Consulting  
Rawhide Portable Corrals  
Udder Tech, Inc.  

Wieser Concrete With Dan McKinney

Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Gale McKinney, He's the owner of the American Cattlemen, and he sits down with Dan McKinney, Ag Sales Rep with Wieser Concrete. With 60 years of family ownership, Wieser Concrete has established itself as a versatile concrete manufacturer serving commercial, residential, and agricultural markets. The conversation centered on underground manure storage systems, which have become increasingly popular among both dairy and beef producers. Dan explained the comprehensive process of creating these storage solutions, including precast walls, floors, and specialized dry cast slats with exceptional durability. These underground pits offer significant advantages over traditional storage methods, including better nutrient retention, reduced real estate requirements, and improved environmental management. For cattle operations, these controlled housing environments provide numerous benefits. Cattle experience improved comfort, with dry living conditions that promote better hoof health. The underground storage systems minimize odors and environmental impact, making them neighbor-friendly and compliant with agricultural regulations. The concrete used in construction features self-consolidating techniques with added fiber, ensuring uniform strength and longevity. Dan highlighted the growing trend of beef producers adopting controlled housing, noting the efficiency gains in cattle weight gain and overall farm management. While initial investment costs are higher, producers can recoup expenses through improved operational efficiency over time. The systems work for various cattle operations, from dairy to beef, with adaptable designs that can accommodate different management styles. Wieser Concrete's product range extends beyond manure storage, including bunker silos, feed bunks, cattle guards, grain storage, water tanks, and specialized cattle foot baths. The company's commitment to engineering quality, NRCS approval, and customer service has been key to its 60-year success. The podcast concluded by promoting an upcoming open barn event where interested producers could learn more about Wieser Concrete's innovative agricultural solutions.
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.
American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:
DMTC Consulting
Rawhide Portable Corrals
Udder Tech, Inc. 

AgSights with Betty Jo-Almond

Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Gale McKinney, He's the publisher of the American Cattlemen, and he sits down with Betty Jo-Almond with AgSights. Betty Jo-Almond, with a background in animal science and genetics, shared her journey from growing up on a beef farm to working with AgSights, an organization focused on making data capture along the food supply chain more efficient and valuable.AgSights offers four distinct services: Bio Track, Bio Links, Processor Links, and Genetic Services, all designed to help farmers and ranchers make more informed decisions. The organization's core philosophy centers on simplifying record-keeping, leveraging technology, and providing meaningful insights that can improve farm profitability.The cooperative's approach is unique, as clients own the company and directly influence its development. By taking a consultative approach, AgSights helps producers transition from manual record-keeping to digital systems, making data collection and analysis more accessible and useful. Their genetic services include evaluations across all breeds, helping commercial herds make more strategic breeding decisions.One of AgSights' most innovative offerings is Bio Links, an inventory and sales solution for small to medium-sized businesses. This system allows producers to track products from pasture to plate, providing detailed information about animal management and helping businesses tell their product's story to consumers.The organization emphasizes the critical connection between farm data and end-product quality. By linking on-farm records with processing information, they help producers understand how factors like health challenges can impact meat quality and ultimately, profitability.
Throughout the podcast, Betty highlighted the importance of data-driven decision-making in modern agriculture. AgSights aims to transform how farmers collect, interpret, and utilize information, providing tools and insights that can help livestock producers improve their operations and create higher-value products.
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.
American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:
DMTC Consulting  
Rawhide Portable Corrals
Udder Tech, Inc. 

Gelbvieh and Balancer Cattle

Gelbvieh and Balancer Cattle have led the way in providing commercial cattlemen with genetic capabilities to increase weaning weight and improve their profitability.  Learn more in this episode of the American Cattlemen Podcast!
What a great interview with an exceptionally gracious guest, Mr Harold Bertz, Executive Director of the American Gelbvieh Association.
“Harold recently served as the Chief Operating Officer of the American Royal in Kansas City. He previously worked for the Red Angus Association of America for nearly ten years, focusing on increasing the acceptance of Red Angus cattle among commercial cow-calf producers and feedlots. The Burt's family farm, located near Mayview, Missouri, has been in the family for seven generations. He and his wife Melissa are also involved with her family's farm near Parker, Kansas. They have two grown children who are active in the beef industry. Harold, welcome to the American Cattlemen podcast.”
Please note that Harold and Melissa have family roots that run seven generations deep in Cattle Production History, a testament to their strong background in serving producers.
Harold and I discussed numerous topics, ranging from the origins of the Gelbieh breed in the USA to the strong genetic influence Gelbieh has through the Balancer genetic line.  Harold provides detailed insight for commercial producers in the area of heterosis and genetic improvement.
I find the Gelbvieh Association’s dedication to its youth program particularly interesting.  Harold understands that maintaining and fostering a strong youth program is one key to the cattle industry's future.
“Yeah, I think that's a constant battle for all of us in agriculture. Especially here in the beef industry. And, you know, I believe we've discussed the youth quite a bit. I think they do a tremendous job of telling our story. We have one of our contests in podcasting, and the youth create a podcast. And I think that, you know, I know the story that that my son is able to tell his peers about what he does on the farm and ranch is far superior to what I'm what I'm telling so I I think we've, we've done a good job in agriculture of creating a group of folks, a group of youth that are now becoming adults and active in the industry, that do a tremendous job of sharing our story. I don't think we can rest on that. I think we need to keep pushing forward and continue developing, making every generation better, because you're right. There is a small percentage of people who participate in the hands-on aspect of production agriculture. I think that that we have to be constantly aware, constantly moving, and be extremely agile as an industry, to keep telling that story and to keep pushing again what a quality protein we are and how much care and thought goes into creating that wonderful experience that they have, whether it's at their home or their favorite restaurant.”
I hope you take a few minutes and listen to this episode—excellent insights from one of our industry’s leaders.  Check out my interview with Harold Berz, Executive Director of The American Gelbvieh Association!
 
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast please check out the website:  www.americancattlemen.com
American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:
DMTC Consulting  
Rawhide Portable Corrals  
Udder Tech, Inc.  
 

QualiTech

Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Dustin Hector, he's the director of business development for the American Cattlemen Media Group, and he sits down with Joshua Jendza with QualiTech. Joshua brings extensive experience in animal science, having worked in both large and small companies after completing his graduate degrees from Purdue University and a post-doctorate at the University of Minnesota. The conversation centers on QualiTech and their garlic-based products, specifically Feed Buds and Bio Edge Defend. Joshua explains that these products leverage the natural sulfur compounds found in garlic to provide multiple benefits for livestock. The garlic-derived products offer protection against external parasites like flies, ticks, and lice, as well as potential mitigation of internal parasites. The products are particularly appealing to producers because they are natural, cost-effective, and can be easily added to free-choice minerals.Bio Edge Defend represents an evolution of their garlic product, incorporating fennel oil to address heat stress in animals. Joshua highlights research showing fennel's ability to interact with neuro-endocrine nerves, potentially reducing stress and improving animal performance during high-temperature periods. The product aims to mitigate the secondary stressors caused by heat, such as immune responses and oxidative stress.Looking toward the future of animal nutrition, Joshua predicts significant breakthroughs in methane emission reduction for cattle. He envisions developing strategies that can convert energy typically lost as methane into usable meat products, creating a win-win scenario for producers and consumers. Interestingly, their research has shown that garlic may play a role in this process by inhibiting methane-producing microbes in the rumen, though currently not economically viable at scale.The podcast provides insights into innovative, natural approaches to animal health and nutrition, showcasing QualiTech and their commitment to developing science-backed, environmentally conscious solutions for livestock producers.
 
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast please check out the website:  www.americancattlemen.com
Sponsors:
DMTC Consulting
Rawhide Portable Corrals
Udder Tech Inc.

Smarter Cattle

Smarter Cattle is a record-keeping software designed to make ranch management simpler and efficient.
I am so thrilled to know that the cattle industry is in the hands of a new generation of ranchers and industry professionals with exceptional skills!
Oaklee Trapp is a cattlewoman, entrepreneur, and founder of Smarter Cattle, a record-keeping software designed to make ranch management simpler and efficient. She's from Tremont, Utah, where she lives and works on her family's ranch. Oakley earned her bachelor's degree in business management from Utah Tech University, where she also played four years of Division I softball. The idea for smarter cattle was born in an entrepreneurial class at Utah Tech, where she pitched the concept in a Shark Tank-style project, and has taken off ever since. Today, she's passionate about helping fellow ranchers streamline their operations with the tools built by ranchers, for ranchers. 
 
Oaklee offers excellent feedback, information, and solutions to enhance your cattle business.
 
“Yeah, it's, I honestly can't stress it. Stress it enough like you're talking about, you know, everybody has the little red book or a notebook that's floating around in their truck a console full of papers, and a lot is riding on those things that could could blow away when you open the door or get lost or you never have it when you need it. So, having a centralized location is more than just necessary. You know, it's it's essential on a lot of different operations as well, from from the family operation, like I'm on here today, where it's me, my dad and my sister, um, it always seems like we're we weren't in the right truck, where, where all the records were, or we were in different locations. And I needed to know something, so now, in that situation, we all have access, and we can pull it up on our phones at any time and look at it. We don't have to be together.”
 
 Oaklee was a great interview, and you will soon tell by listening that she is passionate about her product.  Give this one a good listen, you won’t be disappointed!
 
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast please check out the website:  www.americancattlemen.com
Sponsors:
DMTC Consulting
Rawhide Portable Corrals
Udder Tech Inc.

Red Angus Cattle are Angus Cattle

It was a great learning experience to sit down with Tom Brink, the CEO of the Red Angus Association of America.  Join us on your favorite platform to listen to the wisdom of one of the cattle industry’s great minds. Tom Brink is a prominent beef industry figure known for his extensive experience and expertise in the Red Angus breed. He has held significant leadership roles in various organizations, including Cattle-Fax, the American Gelbvieh Association, and JBS Five Rivers Feeding, LLC. Brink's work has been instrumental in advancing the quality and profitability of Red Angus cattle. As the CEO of the Red Angus Association of America, he aims to bring the breed to the forefront of the beef industry, leveraging his industry knowledge and innovative thinking to drive success. Brink holds three degrees from Kansas State University and is firmly committed to genetic excellence and value-added programs for Red Angus breeders.
 
Tom and his wife have four children and six grandchildren. They reside in Brighton, Colorado, where Tom enjoys hiking, biking, and reading books and articles on various topics.
In this interview with Gale McKinney, Publisher of American Cattlemen Media, Tom covers several topics in a casual, fast-paced discussion.  Tom is a passionate leader who leads an outstanding team at Red Angus.  We were particularly intrigued by Tom’s insights on Sustainable Beef LLC – a new rancher-led beef processing plant slated to open in April 2025 in North Platte, Nebraska, that will implement the innovative grid. Notably, the grid is unique in equally rewarding Red Angus, black Angus, and smoky cattle.  “This grid pricing system could have a ripple effect throughout the industry, starting with the feeder calf market,”  Brink explained.  “Backgrounders and feedlots supplying cattle to Sustainable Beef can confidently pay the same amount for Red Angus and black-hided feeder cattle, knowing they will be rewarded equally for quality.”
Twin Rivers Media produces the American Cattlemen Podcast.
 
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast please check out the website:  www.americancattlemen.com
Sponsors:
DMTC Consulting
Rawhide Portable Corrals
Udder Tech Inc.

Vermeer and Hay

Welcome back to another episode of the American Cattlemen Podcast. Today, Dustin chats with Boyd Quinley, the Regional Manager for the Southwest Region for Vermeer. Boyd will share his vast experience about Vermeer, its company history, and some key milestones they have reached. Boyd will then discuss his background in rodeo and transition to Vermeer, highlighting the company's focus on efficiency and innovation. Boyd then emphasized the importance of efficiency in hay production, noting that larger cutting and raking equipment can help producers manage unpredictable weather conditions. Boyd notes the current positive trends in the cattle industry, citing low beef cow inventory and high profit margins for cow-calf producers. Boyd will then share some of his insights on low beef cow inventories, record profit margins, and the challenges that producers are facing today. He also details Vermeer's product offerings, including round balers, mixer wagons, and manure spreaders, emphasizing their role in enhancing productivity and efficiency. The conversation provided valuable perspectives on agricultural trends and technological advancements in modern ranching, and we hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did.
 
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast please check out the website:  www.americancattlemen.com
Sponsors:
DMTC Consulting
Rawhide Portable Corrals
Udder Tech Inc.

RE-COVR From Creative Science

Welcome to another episode of the American Cattlemen Podcast. Today, Gale chats with JD Hill, National Sales Manager for Creative Science.
JD has spent over 32 years in the animal health industry, beginning his career with Bayer Animal Health in 1993. He later joined Western Vet Supply, eventually becoming part of Patterson through several acquisitions. After 16 years in Distribution, JD transitioned back to the vendor and manufacturing side as Head of U.S. Operations for Sypharma Animal Health, an Australian-based company. In 2017, he became National Sales Manager for Kinetic Vet and currently holds the same position, leading the Creative Science Outside Sales Team.  JD is deeply grateful for the tremendous livelihood this industry has provided and the many lifelong friendships and relationships he’s built.
Today, Gale and JD had a great conversation, reminding us of a tried-and-true product: Re-Covr.
Re-Covr Injection is an antihistamine injectable solution for cattle and horses, containing tripelennamine hydrochloride. It blocks harmful histamine effects, which can delay recovery time. The injection is indicated for use in cattle with histamine toxemias such as pneumonia, mastitis, septic metritis, retained placenta, milk fever, grass tetany, displaced abomasum, bloat, grain overload, toxic indigestion, intestinal obstruction, colic, second-degree burns, or shipping fever. In horses, it is used for allergic reactions like asthma, urticaria, milk allergy, insect bites, anaphylactic shock, drug sensitivities, plant poisonings, snake bites, or edematous swelling. The injection requires a valid prescription and is not for beef calves less than 2 months of age, dairy calves, or veal calves.
Creative Science values the health and performance of competitive equine athletes and proudly supports the riders who care for them. Creative Science Ambassadors exemplify our vision, mission, and values and excel in their disciplines. These riders chose Creative Science from the vast array of animal health products available before becoming an ambassador because they simply work.
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast please check out the website:  www.americancattlemen.com
Sponsors:
DMTC Consulting
Rawhide Portable Corrals
Udder Tech Inc.