Around the Fencepost

Jacob Leach

Around the Fencepost is a producer‑first podcast about real farming, real stewardship, and real people. Each episode brings you conversations with folks who still have dirt under their nails — farmers, grazers, seed dealers, and neighbors who serve their communities and care deeply about the land and livestock they steward. We talk soil health, animal health, forage decisions, and the everyday challenges that shape a farm. Just stories, practical experience, and seed and practice recommendations grounded in real‑world feedback. If you’re looking for conversations that help you think, learn, and make better stewardship decisions on your own farm, pull up a chair. The best talks still happen around the fencepost.

  1. 1d ago

    🌾Around the Fencepost Episode 21 Ernest Weaver Byron Seeds Southwest TM

    Ernest Weaver, the Southwest Territory Manager for Byron Seeds, shares his journey from dairy farming to becoming an integral part of Byron's growth. He discusses the vital role he played in the company's development and the focus on forage, grasses, and summer annuals. Ernest's commitment to superior feed and digestibility is evident throughout the conversation. The conversation covers topics related to farming, dealer networks, forage management, and the impact of government involvement in agriculture. It also delves into the significance of regenerative agriculture and the role of different players in the industry. The conversation covers a range of topics related to summer and winter annuals, government subsidies, forage improvement, and fall planting. The speakers discuss the impact of subsidies on farming, the effectiveness of forage improvement programs, and the challenges and benefits of stockpiling summer annuals for grazing. They also touch on the importance of soil management, fertility, and moisture for successful fall planting. Takeaways Forage FocusCommitment to Superior Feed Dealer networks are farmer-based and farmer-focused, providing valuable support and knowledge to farmers.Improving forage programs can lead to significant improvements in farm profitability and livestock health. Government subsidies impact farming practicesForage improvement programs can be effective without subsidiesStockpiling summer annuals for grazing requires careful managementFertility and moisture are critical for successful fall planting Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Byron Seeds12:27 Selecting Alfalfa and Summer Annuals18:48 Dealer Networks and Farmer Support36:13 Government Involvement in Agriculture54:36 Importance of Soil Management and Fertility for Fall Planting

    57 min

  2. Jul 1

    How to be your Bankers Best Friend, w/ Ty Smithson Farm Credit

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    46 min

  3. Jun 23

    🌾 Around the Fencepost Episode 19 Ben Masemore Genetics matter/ Jacob Leach Wet Meadows Seed

    Ben Masemore shares his journey from growing up on a dairy farm to transitioning to carpentry and housing crisis, and eventually returning to the family farm. He discusses his experience with no-till farming, soil management, and the importance of conservation in agriculture. The conversation covers the impact of cover crops on soil health, the growth and expansion of Noble, and the art and science of breeding cows. The conversation delves into the impact of genomics and AI on agriculture, the value of good cows in dairy farming, the influence of big money in the show world, and the future of dairy farming and agriculture. It also highlights the importance of educating the public about dairy farming and the continuous learning and pursuit of improvement in the industry. Takeaways Transitioning between different industries can provide valuable insights and skills for farming.No-till farming and cover crops play a crucial role in soil management and conservation in agriculture. Cover crops contribute to soil healthNoble's growth and expansionBreeding cows is a combination of art and science The impact of genomics and AI on agricultureThe importance of educating the public about dairy farming Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background08:07 Transition to Carpentry and Housing Crisis19:04 Transition to No-Till Farming and Soil Management26:09 Experience with No-Till Farming and Cover Crops33:19 The Impact of Cover Crops on Soil Health52:18 Breeding Cows: Art and Science01:08:19 The Reward of Weaving Through Challenges01:13:40 The Impact of Genomics on Jersey Breed01:20:30 The Influence of Big Money in the Show World01:26:37 The Importance of Educating the Public About Dairy Farming01:36:38 The Care and Pampering of Dairy Cows01:42:08 Continuous Learning and Pursuit of Improvement

    1h 44m

  4. Jun 16

    🌾 Around the Fencepost Episode 18 Veronica Steer Sunbow Jerseys / Jacob Leach Wet Meadows Seed

    The conversation with Miss Veronica Steer of Sunbow Jerseys in Cottage Grove, Tennessee covers the farm's history, challenges, and the use of social media to share authentic farm experiences. The discussion also delves into the importance of storytelling and the impact of technology on dairy farming practices. The conversation covers a range of topics including vaccination, dairy promotion, grazing, women in agriculture, and equipment maintenance. The speakers discuss the importance of explaining the 'why' behind vaccination, the benefits of whole milk, the challenges and rewards of grazing, and the role of women in agriculture. They also touch on the need for equipment maintenance and the loss of knowledge in family farms. The conversation delves into the multifaceted nature of dairy farming, highlighting the challenges, joys, and essential role of dairy in nutrition. It also emphasizes the importance of care, enjoyment, and safety in dairy production. Takeaways Authentic storytelling is a powerful tool for sharing the real experiences and challenges of dairy farming.The use of social media allows for the sharing of authentic farm experiences and provides insight into the daily life of a dairy farmer. Vaccination 'Why': Explaining the reasons behind vaccination is important.Whole Milk Benefits: Whole milk has nutritional benefits and its promotion is significant.Grazing Challenges: Grazing presents challenges and rewards for dairy farmers.Women in Agriculture: The role of women in agriculture is essential and involves various responsibilities.Equipment Maintenance: Equipment maintenance is crucial for farm operations and requires knowledge and skill. Dairy farming involves a diverse range of tasks beyond milking cows, including equipment maintenance and crop management.Each farm has its unique focus, whether it's on cows, crops, or technology, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach to farming.The Chapters 00:00 Introducing Sunbow Jerseys05:21 Influence of Family and Community21:20 Vaccination 'Why' and Whole Milk Benefits

    1h 7m

  5. Jun 9

    🌾 Around the Fencepost Episode 17 Juliette Albrecht Grassi Milk Dairy / Jacob Leach Wet Meadows

    Juliette Albrecht of Grassy Milk Dairy shares the challenges and triumphs of transitioning to small-scale, grass-driven, and consumer-connected dairy farming in Missouri. From the initial move to Missouri to the success of direct milk sales, Juliette's story is one of resilience, learning, and community connection. Juliette shares her experiences and insights as a dairy producer, emphasizing the importance of preventing losses and promoting animal welfare. She discusses the challenges and misconceptions surrounding small dairies, the use of medicines, and the future of the industry. Juliette also highlights the need for consumer understanding and transparency in dairy production. Takeaways Small-scale, grass-driven dairy farming requires adaptation and learning, especially when transitioning from confinement to pasture-based feeding.Direct milk sales have been a successful and rewarding venture, creating a strong connection between the producer and the consumer. Preventing losses through personal experiencesChallenges and misconceptions of small dairiesThe importance of consumer understanding and transparency in dairy production Chapters 00:00 Community Connection and Support26:27 Preventing Losses and Promoting Animal Welfare35:11 Consumer Understanding and Transparency in Dairy Production44:10 Separating Calves from Cows and Animal Welfare

    54 min

  6. Jun 2

    🌾 Around the Fencepost Episode 16 Jacob Leach / Cattle Production Profits Wet Meadows Seed

    🐄 What really drives profit in a cattle operation? In this episode of Around the Fencepost, we discuss the management decisions that have the biggest impact on profitability. While many producers focus on cattle prices, genetics, and equipment, true profitability often comes from how well you manage your forage resources and available acres. The conversation explores the relationship between forage timing, acre management, and decision-making, showing how each affects the bottom line of a cattle operation. Every acre has the potential to produce more value when forage systems are properly planned and managed. One of the key topics discussed is the role of summer annuals. These forages can provide valuable feed during periods when cool-season grasses slow down, helping producers fill forage gaps, extend grazing opportunities, and reduce reliance on stored feed. The discussion also highlights the importance of fall perennials. Establishing and maintaining productive perennial stands creates a strong foundation for long-term grazing success. Healthy perennial systems help improve soil structure, support livestock performance, and contribute to overall farm sustainability. Another major focus is protecting forage investments. Producing hay requires significant time, labor, equipment, and input costs. Proper storage through hay barns, tarps, and other protective measures can help preserve forage quality while reducing waste and financial loss. Sometimes profitability is not about producing more, but protecting what you already have. Pasture rest is another critical management tool discussed in this episode. Allowing pastures adequate recovery time helps maintain plant health, improve root development, and increase long-term forage production. Effective grazing management is about understanding plant growth cycles and creating systems that benefit both livestock and land. The episode also covers one of the most valuable management practices available to producers: soil and forage sampling. Rather than making decisions based on assumptions, testing provides real-world data that can guide fertility programs, feeding strategies, and forage management decisions. Knowing what is happening in your fields and feed sources allows for more accurate planning and better financial outcomes. Whether you manage a small herd or a large cattle operation, understanding the connection between forage production, pasture management, and profitability can help you make more informed decisions and improve overall performance. 🎙️ Chapters 00:00 – Factors Affecting Profit 07:24 – Hay Barns and Tarps: Protecting Investments 14:03 – Soil and Forage Sampling: Knowing Instead of Guessing Learn more about forage management, grazing systems, and seed solutions at https://wetmeadowsseed.com #WetMeadowsSeed #AroundTheFencepost #CattleProduction #ForageManagement #GrazingManagement #PastureManagement #SoilHealth #ForageTesting #RotationalGrazing #BeefCattle #LivestockManagement #SummerAnnuals #PerennialForages #HayManagement #FarmProfitability #RegenerativeAgriculture #RanchLife #FarmLife #Agriculture

    19 min

  7. May 26

    🌾 Around the Fencepost Episode 15 Dr. Roger Gates Jacob Leach Wet Meadows Seed

    Dr. Roger Gates shares insights on forage agronomy, regenerative agriculture, and the establishment of warm-season perennials. He emphasizes the importance of soil health, diversity, and the abundance mentality in agricultural practices. The discussion covers the management of summer annuals, perennial establishment, and fertility preparation for fall planting. Takeaways Regenerative agriculture emphasizes abundance mentality and the importance of soil health and diversity.Summer annuals can be managed to clean up fields ahead of fall establishment.Fertility preparation for fall planting includes soil testing, liming, and a spoon-feeding approach to nitrogen application. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Roger Gates06:05 Collaboration and Experience with Tifton Group11:09 Summer Annuals and Forage Considerations19:06 Warm Season Annuals and Grazing Strategies27:09 Regrowth and Grazing Intervals32:18 Summer Annuals for Fall Field Cleanup46:09 Fertility Preparation for Fall Planting

    45 min

  8. May 20

    🌾 Around the Fencepost Episode 14 George Moss Producer Jacob Leach Wet Meadows Seed

    The conversation covers the challenges and slow growth in the cattle business, including the management of cattle operations, risk management, market dynamics, mindset, belief, and support in agriculture, pressures in the cattle industry, and future plans and goals for the business. Takeaways Slow growth in the cattle businessChallenges of land acquisition and management Chapters 00:00 Starting a Cattle Business05:41 Challenges in Cattle Farming13:14 Mindset and Overcoming Fears20:11 Pressures in the Cattle Industry

    28 min
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About

Around the Fencepost is a producer‑first podcast about real farming, real stewardship, and real people. Each episode brings you conversations with folks who still have dirt under their nails — farmers, grazers, seed dealers, and neighbors who serve their communities and care deeply about the land and livestock they steward. We talk soil health, animal health, forage decisions, and the everyday challenges that shape a farm. Just stories, practical experience, and seed and practice recommendations grounded in real‑world feedback. If you’re looking for conversations that help you think, learn, and make better stewardship decisions on your own farm, pull up a chair. The best talks still happen around the fencepost.

Information

  • Creator
    Jacob Leach
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    22
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Jacob Leach

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