Advancing the Legacy

Hidi Fankhauser
  • 4.5 (8)
  • MANAGEMENT

Advancing the Legacy highlights generational succession planning in the Beef Industry. We tell families' stories about navigating successes, troubles, and humor around passing the baton from one generation to the next. Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567567794388

  1. Robert and Shari Kurtz: Family Beyond the Fences

    3H AGO

    Robert and Shari Kurtz: Family Beyond the Fences

    Robert and Shari Kurtz: Family Beyond the Fences In this episode, we sit down with Robert and Shari Kurtz, lifelong farmers from east-central Kansas, to talk about what it means to steward both land and legacy. Shari, the only sibling of Terry — whose memory and impact inspired the podcast — brings a deeply personal perspective to the conversation. Together, they reflect on a family shaped by farming, resilience, and strong bonds. Robert shares stories from his grandfather’s era, when cotton and sheep were part of the farm’s experimentations, and how that pioneering spirit continues today through conservation practices and cover crops, always balancing ideals with the realities of modern agriculture. Shari offers heartfelt insights on raising farm kids and grandkids, highlighting how children learn not just by teaching but through observation and participation. The couple discusses the challenges and joys of passing down traditions while navigating change, and the importance of sharing their story to build greater understanding about farm life. From kids make-believe ranching with toy calves to physically helping with chores, the Kurtz remind us that farming legacy is as much about family and character as it is about the land. Key Topics Covered: The long view: multi-generational farming and its influence on decision-making Balancing conservation goals with financial realities How children learn life lessons naturally on the farm Tradition, transition, and technology in agriculture Overcoming misconceptions about farming through storytelling The role of family humor and close relationships in farm resilienceSend us a text Cliff is the founder and co-owner of Rocky Mountain Financial Group in Denver, Colorado. He has 30 years of experience working with business owners regarding their estate and business planning. Find Shelbys' Sassy Designs at facebook.com/shelbyssassy or shop them at shelbys-sassy-designs-emporia.myshopify.com Make sure to leave us a review!

    46 min
  2. Dan McCarty: Where the Dream Meets the Dirt

    6D AGO

    Dan McCarty: Where the Dream Meets the Dirt

    In this episode, we hear from Dan McCarty, a fourth-generation Coloradan with deep roots in the cattle industry. Dan shares stories about his family's history in agriculture, going all the way back to his great-grandfather, a medical doctor who also speculated on farmland. Dan also talks about his unlikely friendship with Terry, how they met through the National Cattleman's Beef Association, and some of the valuable lessons he’s learned along the way. From discussing the challenges of managing large-scale operations in the high desert of Western Colorado to the importance of land stewardship and sustainability, Dan offers a wealth of knowledge and a down-to-earth perspective on the realities of ranching today. You won't want to miss his insights on navigating intergenerational transitions in agriculture and his level-headed advice for the next generation. So, give it a listen!   Dan's family's involvement in the cattle industry in Colorado for four generations, with his great-grandfather starting as a medical doctor who also invested in farmlandHow older generations play a crucial role in passing down knowledge and traditions in ranching, especially regarding risk tolerance and lessons learned from past economic hardshipsModern operations face challenges such as federal land issues, wolf reintroduction, and water scarcity, requiring ranchers to adapt and plan for the futureSustainable practices, like matching resources to cattle and implementing grazing management plans, are essential for responsible land managementHow despite the challenges, there are still many opportunities in agriculture for both those who grew up in it and those who didn't, but a business or finance background can be a major assetSend us a text Cliff is the founder and co-owner of Rocky Mountain Financial Group in Denver, Colorado. He has 30 years of experience working with business owners regarding their estate and business planning. Find Shelbys' Sassy Designs at facebook.com/shelbyssassy or shop them at shelbys-sassy-designs-emporia.myshopify.com Make sure to leave us a review!

    40 min
  3. Mark Roeber: 135 Years of Legacy

    DEC 16

    Mark Roeber: 135 Years of Legacy

    Today we head to Paonia, Colorado, to sit down with Mark Roeber.  He operates Mt Lamborn LLC and Mt Lamborn Triple LLP. This multi-generational operation’s story begins in 1889, when the first generation purchased the property from the Utes, establishing a legacy that runs as deep as the canyons west of Crested Butte. Mark and his wife Jody have four children.  Their oldest son, Chase, is planning to carry their heritage forward. Mark is a dedicated advocate for the cattle industry, who has served on Colorado Cattlemen’s and Public Lands Council boards. Mark’s leadership was vital as he served with CCA when Terry was hired. It is an honor to hear Mark's story of preservation, transition, and ensuring his family’s legacy endures Send us a text Cliff is the founder and co-owner of Rocky Mountain Financial Group in Denver, Colorado. He has 30 years of experience working with business owners regarding their estate and business planning. Find Shelbys' Sassy Designs at facebook.com/shelbyssassy or shop them at shelbys-sassy-designs-emporia.myshopify.com Make sure to leave us a review!

    49 min
  4. Tim Canterbury: Public Lands, Private Values

    DEC 9

    Tim Canterbury: Public Lands, Private Values

    We are replaying one of our favorites!  Today, I’m joined by Tim Canterbury, a longtime family friend and true cattleman. My kids know him as “Uncle Tim.” He’s played Barbie dolls and many rounds of checkers with our kids, and more importantly, he was a loyal friend to Terry. Tim runs a cow-calf operation near Salida, Colorado, and currently serves as President of the Public Lands Council, where he advocates for ranchers across the West. In this episode, we talk about his journey, his deep connection to the land, and what it means to carry forward a legacy in work, friendship, and family. Send us a text Cliff is the founder and co-owner of Rocky Mountain Financial Group in Denver, Colorado. He has 30 years of experience working with business owners regarding their estate and business planning. Find Shelbys' Sassy Designs at facebook.com/shelbyssassy or shop them at shelbys-sassy-designs-emporia.myshopify.com Make sure to leave us a review!

    1h 3m
  5. Bill Gray: A Legacy Gets His Wings

    DEC 2

    Bill Gray: A Legacy Gets His Wings

    Today we're replaying an episode I recorded about a month ago with someone very special to Terry and me, Bill Gray of Gray Ranches in Ordway, Colorado.  When I first came into the CCA world, I honestly thought Bill was the association. He was on the board when Terry was hired and remained in that position for nearly a decade afterward. One of the people who believed in Terry early and supported him throughout his time there.  Bill passed away on November 24th at the age of 74 and we wanted to honor him by sharing this conversation again.  He was a pillar in Crowley County, a lifelong cattleman, and a steady, generous presence in our industry. Our deepest sympathy and all our hugs go out to his wife, Debbie, and the whole Gray family. I like to imagine Terry, Tim Lehman, and David Mendenhall waiting for him as he steps into Heaven's Cattleman's Bar, welcoming their old friend with open arms.  Send us a text Cliff is the founder and co-owner of Rocky Mountain Financial Group in Denver, Colorado. He has 30 years of experience working with business owners regarding their estate and business planning. Find Shelbys' Sassy Designs at facebook.com/shelbyssassy or shop them at shelbys-sassy-designs-emporia.myshopify.com Make sure to leave us a review!

    29 min
  6. Rachel Gabel: The Unknown Plan

    NOV 25

    Rachel Gabel: The Unknown Plan

    My guest today is my friend Rachel Gabel, writer, ag advocate, and host of the Pro Ag podcast. She’s known for her work in The Fence Post, the Denver Gazette, and the Colorado Springs Gazette. Rachel knew Terry and leaned on him for his steady advice and wisdom. In this episode, she opens up about her family’s own uncertainties around succession planning—a struggle that’s far more common in agriculture than we like to admit.  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-35-federal-indictments-for-the-maudes-s-d/id1722326615?i=1000665111274 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-55-shad-sullivan-on-the-maude-case-in-sd/id1722326615?i=1000689015815 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-66-maudes-criminal-charges-dismissed/id1722326615?i=1000705495246 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-67-heather-and-charles-maude-from-washington-d-c/id1722326615?i=1000705795560 Send us a text Cliff is the founder and co-owner of Rocky Mountain Financial Group in Denver, Colorado. He has 30 years of experience working with business owners regarding their estate and business planning. Find Shelbys' Sassy Designs at facebook.com/shelbyssassy or shop them at shelbys-sassy-designs-emporia.myshopify.com Make sure to leave us a review!

    46 min
  7. Aidan Datteri: Raising Leaders

    NOV 18

    Aidan Datteri: Raising Leaders

    Aiden Datteri shares his journey as a young agriculturalist, discussing his experiences with livestock, particularly rabbits, goats, and cattle. He reflects on his involvement with FFA, the importance of succession planning in agriculture, and his role as a state officer. Aiden also talks about his podcast, 'Way Out West,' which aims to bridge the gap between consumers and agriculture. He addresses current agricultural issues, the need for trust in the industry, and shares humorous anecdotes from his experiences in agriculture. Send us a text Cliff is the founder and co-owner of Rocky Mountain Financial Group in Denver, Colorado. He has 30 years of experience working with business owners regarding their estate and business planning. Find Shelbys' Sassy Designs at facebook.com/shelbyssassy or shop them at shelbys-sassy-designs-emporia.myshopify.com Make sure to leave us a review!

    48 min
  8. Robert Farnam: How Leaving Home Created a Legacy

    NOV 11

    Robert Farnam: How Leaving Home Created a Legacy

    In this engaging conversation, Robert Farnam shares his journey from a ranch in California to becoming a successful business owner in the cattle supply industry. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the challenges of running a business, and the significance of family legacy in agriculture. Farnam emphasizes the need for succession planning for future generations and the role of community in supporting the agricultural industry. He reflects on personal growth through adversity and the often-overlooked value of agriculture in society. The conversation is filled with humor, life lessons, and insights into the resilience required in the farming world. Send us a text Cliff is the founder and co-owner of Rocky Mountain Financial Group in Denver, Colorado. He has 30 years of experience working with business owners regarding their estate and business planning. Find Shelbys' Sassy Designs at facebook.com/shelbyssassy or shop them at shelbys-sassy-designs-emporia.myshopify.com Make sure to leave us a review!

    1h 17m
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4.5
out of 5
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About

Advancing the Legacy highlights generational succession planning in the Beef Industry. We tell families' stories about navigating successes, troubles, and humor around passing the baton from one generation to the next. Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567567794388

Information

  • Creator
    Hidi Fankhauser
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Advancing the Legacy
  • Show Website
    Advancing the Legacy