American Cattlemen Podcast

Twedt Red Angus 16th Annual Production Sale

Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Aaron McKinney, he's the field editor for the American Cattlemen Media Group, and he sits down with Sam Twedt, Owner of Twedt Red Angus. In this episode, Sam and Aaron dive into the Twedt Red Angus 16th Annual Production Sale, held on February 3rd, 2026, at 1:00 PM CST, right there at the ranch in McHenry, North Dakota. 
Sam Twedt, the fourth generation in his family's ranching tradition, manages Twedt Red Angus with his father, running 450 commercial and 200 registered Red Angus Cows. Established in 2009 with the acquisition of the Bar R Red Angus herd, they've rapidly improved their genetics. They aggressively utilize embryo transfer, flushing 5-8 top cows and implanting about 100 embryos annually to advance herd quality.
Located north of McHenry, ND, their cattle thrive on native pastures and rolling hills. customer satisfaction is paramount, and the Twedts stand behind their investment. Sam offers expert guidance, knowing his cow herd "inside and out," which helps the customers select the bull that best fits their specific program goals.
The sale is set to feature a deep selection of Red Angus yearling bulls, with particular excitement surrounding standout lots, especially those sired by STRA Ranch Hand and STRA Relentless. These bulls are recognized for their desirable traits, such as excellent feet, easy fleshing, impressive athleticism, calving ease, and overall contribution to herd quality.
In addition to yearling bulls, the event will showcase a select group of two-year-old virgin bulls, developed with particular attention to provide buyers with animals that offer an age advantage and reliable breeding performance. Registered bred heifers and a unique opportunity to acquire the entire replacement pen of commercial bred Red Angus heifers were significant highlights, offering proven genetics from a well-established, predominantly closed herd. The program's genetics have garnered positive feedback from prior buyers and are expected to deliver strong maternal traits and robust calves, meeting the needs of both seedstock and commercial buyers.
Attention was also given to sale logistics and buyer experience. Video footage of the sale lots will be made available for online viewing, with cattle tours arranged despite challenging winter weather. Delivery logistics were emphasized, with free transport provided within 500 miles and flexible arrangements for further distances. The program is committed to customer satisfaction, offering guarantees on their cattle and a willingness to address any issues post-sale. Volume discounts and a reputation for excellent hospitality, including a popular lunch, further enhance the buyer experience. The podcast closed with encouragement for prospective buyers to join the sale in person or via online platforms.
 
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Kline Simmental 14th Annual Production Sale

Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Aaron McKinney, he's the Field Editor for the American Cattlemen Media Group, and he sits down with Matt Kline, Owner of Kline Simmental Ranch. In this episode, Matt and Aaron discuss the upcoming Kline Simmental 14th Annual Production sale held on February 1st, 2026. 
Kline Simmental Ranch is a diverse purebred livestock operation located in the heart of North Dakota. They are dedicated to developing reliable working cattle that add value and profit to your operation. Kline Simmental Ranch has prided itself on producing performance and growth, alongside the hardiness, fertility, and maternal strengths that truly set Simmental cattle apart from other breeds.
Matt shares that the ranch was established in 1984 by his parents, and he became actively involved after college, starting the registered Simmental cattle operation in 2009. The Kline family, including Matt’s three children, is deeply involved in day-to-day ranch activities, contributing to the operation’s growth, reputation, and success. Kline Simmental Ranch prides itself on producing cattle that balance performance, growth, hardiness, fertility, and strong maternal traits. The program is evenly split between red and black Simmental cattle, with a notable emphasis on offering more homo black genetics in response to market demand.
This year’s production sale features 54 Simmental and Sim-Angus bulls. Sale highlights include groups of bulls sired by notable herd sires, including three full brothers to last year’s high seller and another trio by a top sire, M4 Alpha. On the red Simmental side, offspring from the high-performing Crossroad Engage 120 5K stand out as a highlight of the offering.
The ranch is also transitioning its replacement female program, selling a select group of 10 registered open heifers and offering bred heifers sourced from reputable partner ranches. These bred heifers are due to calve in March and April and are available for viewing online through video platforms. Logistics for the sale include online bidding, on-site bulls remaining at the ranch through April for fertility exams, and prompt delivery arrangements for both bulls and females.
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.
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Importance of Parasite Testing with Dr. M. Wayne Ayers

Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Dustin Hector, and he sits down with Dr. M. Wayne Ayers with Elanco Animal Health, about the Importance of Parasite Testing your herd. 
Dr. Ayers shares his extensive background spanning decades in veterinary medicine, encompassing experience in private practice, academia, and his current industry role. Dr. Ayers explains that testing helps producers identify which internal parasite species are present, determine the appropriate treatment strategies, and strike a balance between economic viability and animal health. The timing and type of testing, he notes, should be tailored to specific regional and seasonal conditions, such as climate, rainfall, and pasture type, since the parasite life cycle is tightly linked to environmental factors.
A key point raised is the use of composite fecal sampling, particularly from young calves, to obtain a representative herd-level assessment without the need for testing every individual animal. Sampling strategies and laboratory techniques, such as fecal egg counts and larval culture, are discussed as methods to identify parasite burdens and species composition. Dr. Ayers also emphasizes that as animals mature, their immune systems generally reduce susceptibility to heavy parasite loads, meaning routine deworming may not be necessary in older, well-conditioned cows. Instead, targeted deworming efforts should focus on younger animals and those with lower body condition scores, guided by evidence from periodic composite testing.
The discussion also addresses the critical issue of anthelmintic resistance, attributed in part to overreliance on existing dewormer molecules—many of which are decades-old—highlighting the necessity of stewardship to preserve their efficacy. Dr. Ayers advocates for data-driven management to optimize herd health while extending the usefulness of current parasite control tools. The podcast concludes with a mutual appreciation for the depth and complexity of parasite management and emphasizes an ongoing commitment to education, research, and responsible animal care for sustainable cattle production.
Importance of Parasite Testing with Dr. M. Wayne Ayers
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Long Simmentals' Sixth Annual "The Gates Are Open" Sale

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 Rob Long, Co-Owner of Long Simmentals of Creston, Iowa. In this episode, Gale and Rob get into the Long Simmentals' Sixth Annual "The Gates Are Open" production sale, held on February 2, 1 p.m. at the farm near Creston, Iowa. 
Long Simmentals' mission remains clear: to build a sustainable family legacy for future generations and to raise functional cattle backed by industry-leading genetics. Their goal is to be your trusted seedstock supplier!
As a family-run operation, Long Simmentals emphasizes sustainable practices aimed at building a legacy for future generations. Rob explains that their approach is rooted in efficient and functional females, focusing on traits that promote profitability and longevity in the herd. He highlights their commitment to monitoring cow economics and EPDs, maintaining that success is grounded in consistent discipline and unwavering standards.
The heart of the sale lies in the diverse genetic offerings, presented through open heifers, bred females, bulls, and exclusive embryo and flush opportunities. The heifers and bulls, many sired by their acclaimed herd sire In Charge K 28, showcase the genetic progress Long Simmentals achieves each year. The sale provides rare access to both the herd sire and leading donor cows, including the prolific Carmen and F 12 donors, whose progeny perform at the highest levels. Penny, a proven donor, also features at the sale with a track record of producing consistent, high-quality offspring.
Gale and Rob detail the logistics of the sale, highlight the farm’s new climate-controlled facility, and underscore their ongoing commitment to customer support, both during and after the sale. Their strong breeder-customer relationships and dedication to service shape the event as an opportunity to share Long Simmentals’ mission and advances with the cattle industry.
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.
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Kattle Krew with Kenzy Strawn

Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Dustin Hector, he's the director for business development for the American Cattlemen Media Group, and he sits down with Kenzy Strawn with Kattle Krew. In this episode, Dustin and Kenzy will get into Kattle Krew, their role in the cattle industry, and some misconceptions about Highland cattle. 
Kattle Krew is a family-run farm dedicated to raising Scottish Highland cattle. Alongside caring for their cattle, Kenzy and her husband are raising their two sons with strong values rooted in hard work, stewardship, and respect for agriculture.
Dustin and Kenzy dive into misconceptions about Highland cattle, particularly the widespread belief that they exist only as pets or serve for agritourism. Kenzy insists these animals are, above all, a beef breed, with a proven ability to thrive in harsh climates around the world. She discusses their temperament, emphasizing individualized training and ongoing respect for each animal’s boundaries.
Social media plays a significant role in shaping modern agriculture, as Kenzy describes how these platforms connect rural producers with consumers who are often generations removed from farming. This connectivity fosters new understanding, though it sometimes brings misconceptions about animal husbandry and meat production. Kenzy regularly helps urban families new to livestock, providing thorough education and ongoing support.
Central to Kenzy’s philosophy is stewardship—every animal receives a name, reflecting the belief that livestock are entrusted beings, not mere business assets. This ethos extends to customer relations, where she prioritizes honest communication and assistance before and after the sale. She ensures prospective buyers make informed, responsible decisions and feel empowered to care for their Highland cattle as part of a sustainable and rewarding agricultural future.
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.
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The Drake Simmental Bull and Female Sale Jan. 30, 2026

Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Gale McKinney, he's the owner of the American Cattlemen Podcast, and he sits down with Flint Drake and Mason Harlan of Drake Simmental, Centerville, Iowa. In this episode, they will dive into The Drake Simmental Bull and Female Sale held on January 30, 2026. 
The Drake family began raising cattle in the rolling hills of southern Iowa as soon as their ancestors arrived by covered wagon in 1854. Their path to accelerated genetic improvement and seedstock production began with Charlie Drake, Larry Drake's father. Today, Drake Simmental is comprised of three operations: Iron Creek Cattle Company, Drake Simmental, and Harlan Cattle Company.
Flint explains the Drake Simmental philosophy of matching cattle to the environment, prioritizing structurally sound animals with moderate frames, good maternal traits, and calving ease. This balanced approach, he emphasizes, avoids extremes in genetics, ensuring that cattle remain productive and efficient while thriving in real-world commercial operations.
Mason then details their current offering of both age advantage and yearling bulls, which consist of purebred Angus, Simmental, and Angus-sired animals. He describes the bulls as dense and powerful, particularly praising the Haymakers, Jacksons, and Knockouts for their growth, calving ease, and overall performance. There is a noted balance between age-advantaged and yearling bulls, with yearlings outnumbering the aged group.
They then get into the female group, with a focus on the notable jump in genetic value among the heifers this year. The Jackson heifers stand out for their balance, maternal traits, and calving ease—some reaching donor quality. The Matron of Honor donor cow remains influential, producing high-value bulls, and the calving window for heifers begins in early to mid-February.
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.
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Nichols Farms Superior Beef Genetics Sale

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 Ross Havens of Nichols Farms in Bridgewater, Iowa. In this episode, Gale and Ross dive into the Nichols Farms Beef Genetics Sale, with opening day on January 24th, 2026. 
Nestled in the picturesque heartland of Bridgewater, Iowa, Nichols Farms stands as a beacon of agricultural excellence, sustainability, and innovation. For generations, this family-owned and operated farm has been dedicated to nurturing the land, raising healthy cattle, and advancing the future of agriculture. Founded on timeless values and a deep love for the land, Nichols Farms has evolved into a model of modern agriculture. With roots that run deep in Bridgewater, they have always believed in responsible land management and sustainable cattle practices. Their commitment to environmental stewardship has not only preserved the natural beauty of their surroundings but has also led them to become regional award winners in recognition of their conservation efforts.
Nichols Farms works with a variety of breeds—Angus, Simmental, and South Devon—advocating for crossbreeding to improve production, fertility, and longevity. Hybrid lines and composite cattle are a key component, benefitting both small and large operations. Bulls offered at the sale are performance tested and selected based on data, with emphasis on proven genetics, DNA verification, and EPDs from breed associations.
Innovative programs set Nichols Farms apart. Their smart feed bunk system provides precise measurement of individual feed intake and water consumption, supporting an efficiency index that combines performance data with genomic evaluation. Additionally, their Health Shield program utilizes sensor technology and genetic analysis to identify bulls with greater resilience to bovine respiratory disease.
Sale mechanics are designed to be transparent and fair, including a base price structure and multiple ways for buyers to participate, including online through DV Auction. Heifers related to the bulls in the sale, DNA registered and fully vaccinated, will also be available. Nichols Farms maintains an open-door approach, inviting inquiries about breeding philosophy, data, and the details behind their livestock selection.
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.
American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:
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Schriefer Red Angus Annual Production Sale

Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Aaron McKinney, he's the field rep for the American Cattlemen, and he sits down with Riley Schriefer, owner of Schriefer Red Angus. In this episode, Aaron and Riley will dive into the Schriefer Red Angus Annual Production Sale held on January 26th through January 31st, 2026. 
Nestled in the tough Northern Plains of Northwest Mercer County, ND, Schriefer Red Angus is committed to breeding functional, structurally sound and athletic cattle for today's commercial and purebred producers. The result is hardy, highly maternal, and predictable cows with proven performance across diverse environments throughout the United States.
Low-stress handling is a top priority. Whether handled on foot, horseback, or with equipment, their cattle remain calm and easy to manage. Any animal with disposition issues is culled and never offered for sale. Their herd, roughly 300 strong, is composed of two-thirds commercial and one-third registered cattle, reflecting a commitment to consistency and high maternal traits suitable for thriving in the region's challenging weather conditions.
Central to the ranch’s philosophy is maintaining robust genetics that deliver longevity, sound foot structure, and adaptability across various environments. The Schrieffer family eschews fleeting industry trends, opting instead for proven bloodlines that prioritize long-term herd health and predictability. The focus is on two-year-old virgin bulls as sale offerings, ensuring that buyers receive mature, reliable cattle and reinforcing genetic consistency. Structural soundness, particularly good feet, is a non-negotiable trait, with Riley sharing how deeply the family scrutinizes both their cows’ and sires’ physical qualities before integrating new genetics. Recent breeding programs have introduced promising sires—each selected for specific enhancements like growth, maternal instincts, or performance—while maintaining overall herd integrity.
The upcoming annual production sale, hosted exclusively online via DVAuction, spans several days and is designed for transparency and bidder confidence. Sale terms emphasize fairness, including racehorse-finish bidding and a no-nonsense approach to credits and pricing. Buyers can expect free delivery within 500 miles for bulls and bred heifers, with flexibility for extended logistics. The offering encompasses a carefully curated selection of bulls, registered bred heifers, and open commercial heifers, each group chosen for quality and consistent breeding potential. Customer satisfaction is prioritized, with site-unseen purchase guarantees and a tradition of open communication and honesty underscoring every aspect of Schrieffer Red Angus’s operations.
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.
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Diamond Lazy J Ranch

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 the Diamond Lazy J Ranch team: Brent, Justin, and Tim Nollette along with Connor Barnes. In this episode, Dustin and the team discuss the upcoming Diamond Lazy J Ranch Bull Sale held on January 22nd, 2026. 
Their ranching journey began in 1987, when the founders purchased a small ranch. This foundation allowed them to lease a herd of purebred Angus and Gelbvieh cattle in 1992, marking their entry into the purebred cattle business. Over time, their focus expanded; in 2002, they planted their first grapes, and by 2014, they proudly opened their tasting room. Throughout it all, family has been the cornerstone of their success.
Today, family remains at the heart of everything they do. Brent and Justin have Built upon the initial success, teaming up with Tyler McNitt to develop the herd into what it is now. Their continued emphasis is on raising balanced-trait cattle that thrive in the Sandhills and surrounding regions. The ability of their cattle to perform effectively using available resources is paramount--it's the core of their goal: to raise outstanding cattle and strong families.
Diamond Lazy J Ranch has some outstanding bulls and heifers, including elite heifer bulls and crossbred offerings from prolific dams, underlining their pursuit of consistency and structural soundness. A Real outstanding sale that you won't want to miss folks.
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit: www.americancattlemen.com.
American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:
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Bull Hill Ranch Upcoming Production Sale

Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Aaron McKinney, he's the Field Rep for the American Cattlemen Media Group, and he sits down with Raymond Prescott, Manager of Bull Hill Ranch. In this episode, Aaron and Raymond get into the Bull Hill Ranch upcoming "The More Bull for Your Buck" production sale held on January 17th, 2026. 
Over the years, a number of outstanding herd sires have been purchased from many of the top programs in the country to compliment the genetics of the cow herd at Bull Hill Ranch. In addition, artificial insemination and embryo transfer have been and continue to be invaluable tools that they use, along with strict selection and culling criteria, to continue to make genetic progress.Bull Hill's goal is to produce efficient, no-nonsense cattle that can thrive in their environment on grass and hay. Their cattle make money for their customers by excelling in economically relevant traits such as fertility, calving ease, growth rate, feed efficiency, carcass merit, fleshing ability, structural soundness, and of course, disposition. Today, more than ever, efficient, unpampered beef cattle are needed. Animals that can thrive under tough conditions with fewer inputs are what they're after! The cattle are evaluated daily under real world conditions on fescue and Bermuda grass pastures.
After a brief introduction, Raymond offers a glimpse into his background, tracing his long association with Red Angus cattle from his youth through his educational journey at the University of Georgia, his professional roles at leading agricultural institutions, and ultimately his ongoing partnership with ranch owners Jim and Alveda Meeks. The discussion highlights the strategic evolution of Bull Hill Ranch, rooted in the owners’ desire for easy-keeping, productive cattle and further shaped by Raymond’s knowledge and experience. Over 26 years, the ranch has exported high-quality cattle across the country, receiving enthusiastic testimonials.
The episode’s spotlight is on the upcoming “More Bull for Your Buck” production sale scheduled for January 17, 2026. The sale features 37 service-age bulls, bred with an emphasis on multi-trait selection for economic and convenience traits as well as maternal value. Raymond details the genetics behind the offerings, including bulls sired by standout sires from across the country, and emphasizes the consistent, calm temperaments and robust physical qualities of this year’s sale animals. He also describes the group of open heifers available, underlining their sound physical structure and adaptability.
Beyond genetics and production value, Raymond and Aaron reflect on the ranch’s commitment to customer service and hospitality, with a focus on repeat business, easy buying experiences, and fostering a sense of community. Raymond invites listeners to participate in the sale in person or online and encourages them to experience Bull Hill Ranch’s welcoming environment and tradition of excellence.
For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.
American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:
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