Casual Cattle Conversations

casualcattleconversations
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Casual Cattle Conversations is the podcast for beef cattle producers and ranchers to explore new ideas and hear stories that will help them improve their current management practices. Shaye Koester - Wanner connects listeners to other cattle producers and beef industry experts to discover what management practices, industry trends, current events and inspiring stories are impacting today’s beef cattle industry.

  1. 6D AGO

    Why We DNA Test Commercial Heifers

    In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye discusses the importance and benefits of genomic testing for commercial heifers, a practice she uses on her ranch with her husband and father-in-law. Shaye explains the ease and process of taking tissue samples from the ear for DNA testing, the valuable data it provides, and how it helps in making informed decisions about heifer selection and bull selection, ultimately improving herd quality and productivity. She also shares personal insights into adapting to these advanced techniques on your own operation. Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts!     Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ Learn more about Profit Foundations for Ranchers here: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/profit-foundations-for-ranchers   00:00 Introduction to the Podcast  00:17 Personal Insights on Genomic Testing  05:23 The Process of Genomic Testing  07:58 Benefits and Challenges of Genomic Testing  16:39 Conclusion and Contact Information

    17 min

  2. 12/22/2025

    Retaining Ranch Employees

    In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye interviews Kane Wellnitz about effective strategies for employee retention in ranching and agriculture. Kane shares insights from his experiences as a rancher and ag business owner, discussing challenges and solutions for retaining employees. Key topics include fostering ownership among employees, the importance of communication, and offering flexibility. Kane also touches on the necessity of providing competitive salaries and exploring talent from related industries. He provides an overview of his family's ranch operations and his consulting business, Landbridge Partners, emphasizing ways to improve management and maintain a committed workforce.   Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/   Learn more about Profit Foundations for Ranchers here: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/profit-foundations-for-ranchers      00:00 Introduction to Casual Cattle Conversations 00:17 Guest Introduction: Kane Wellnitz 02:09 Kane's Ranching Background 04:37 Employee Retention Strategies on the Ranch 05:27 Consulting Business Insights 06:54 Lessons Learned in Hiring and Retention 09:23 Challenges and Solutions in Ranch Management 13:03 Finding and Retaining the Right Employees 27:07 Final Thoughts and Advice 30:54 Conclusion and Podcast Support

    32 min

  3. 12/15/2025

    What Ranchers Need to Know About Vitamin A

    In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye is joined by Dr. Blane Lowe to discuss vitamin A deficiencies in cattle herds. The conversation covers the importance of vitamin A for cattle health, symptoms of deficiency, and prevention strategies. Dr. Lowe explains how vitamin A impacts various organ systems, reproductive efficiency, and overall cattle productivity. The episode also delves into environmental factors affecting vitamin A uptake and practical supplementation methods, including a specialized product developed by Dr. Lowe. With expert insights, this episode is essential for ranchers aiming to maintain the health and productivity of their herds during the winter months. 00:00 Welcome to Casual Cattle Conversations   Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/   Learn more about Profit Foundations for Ranchers here: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/profit-foundations-for-ranchers   00:18 Introduction to Vitamin A Deficiencies 00:49 Meet Dr. Blane Lowe 02:24 The Importance of Vitamin A in Cattle 04:03 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin A Deficiency 05:34 Geographical and Environmental Factors 07:32 Supplementation Strategies 15:02 Innovative Solutions: OPT Aid 17:01 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

    21 min

  4. 12/08/2025

    Tax Tips for Ranchers

    In this episode of the 'Casual Cattle Conversations' podcast, Shaye interviews CPA Hannah Mann, who specializes in serving agricultural clients. They delve into practical tax and bookkeeping tips for ranchers, highlighting the importance of effective and marginal tax rates, and the potential benefits of income averaging using Schedule J. Hannah Mann shares her passion for the agricultural industry and her unique insights from both a professional and personal perspective. The discussion also covers common mistakes ranchers make with end-of-year bookwork and tips on utilizing software like Ambrook for efficient bookkeeping. Hannah emphasizes the importance of knowing your effective tax rate to make informed financial decisions and avoid unnecessary expenditures. Listeners will find valuable strategies to better manage their financials and leverage tax benefits specific to the agricultural industry.  Learn more about Ambrook: ambrook.com/casualcattle    Catch more conversation like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ 00:00 Welcome to Casual Cattle Conversations  00:18 Introducing Hannah Mann: Tax Tips for Ranchers  01:08 Hannah's Passion for Agriculture  02:43 Tax Strategies and Bookkeeping Tips  07:05 Common Mistakes in Ranch Bookkeeping  11:22 Effective Tax Rate vs. Marginal Tax Rate  21:59 Retirement Accounts for Farmers and Ranchers  25:58 Understanding Raised vs. Purchased Cattle  26:57 Importance of Accurate Bookkeeping  28:10 Tips for Organizing Bookwork  29:08 Benefits of Using Ambrook Software  31:46 Challenges with QuickBooks  42:19 Tax Strategies and Effective Tax Rates  45:19 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

    50 min

  5. 12/01/2025

    Cattle Market Q&A

    In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye sits down with Tim Petry from North Dakota State University to discuss the intricacies of the current cattle markets. The conversation covers producer-submitted questions, providing insights on price trends, the impact of global markets, and the future outlook for the cattle industry. Tim sheds light on the importance of sticking to traditional marketing plans, the volatility in the futures market, and the factors influencing the high demand and low supply scenario. He also shares valuable resources for producers to stay updated. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion aimed at helping producers make informed decisions in a fluctuating market.  Get the resources mentioned in this episode here: https://bit.ly/CCC-resources  Learn more about Profit Foundations for Ranchers here: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/profit-foundations-for-ranchers  Order your flavor of Pluck here: https://eatpluck.com/?ref=SHAYEWANNER  00:42 Meet Tim Petry: Cattle Market Expert  03:38 Current State of the Cattle Market  10:54 Producer Questions: Beef Prices and Market Trends  15:53 Global Cattle Herds and Future Market Predictions  23:24 Strategies for Producers in a Volatile Market  30:11 Resources and Current Events  39:15 Conclusion and Listener Support

    41 min

  6. 11/24/2025

    Improving Cattle Performance During Winter

    In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye Wanner speaks with Karla Wilke, cow-calf and stocker management specialist from the University of Nebraska, about managing cattle performance during harsh winter conditions. The discussion covers the impact of cold weather on cattle, optimal body condition scores, and strategies for cold stress management. Karla provides practical tips on using windbreaks, bedding, and adjusting feed to help cattle maintain their health and performance throughout winter. The episode also touches on the importance of monitoring body condition scores and being proactive in cattle management to avoid potential long-term negative effects.  00:00 Welcome to Casual Cattle Conversations  00:18 Introduction to Cold Stress Management  01:10 Understanding Body Condition Scoring  01:48 Cold Weather Impact on Cattle  04:04 Proactive Body Condition Management  06:52 Feeding Strategies for Winter  11:30 Wind Breaks and Shelter Tips  14:36 Preparing for Winter Storms  21:20 Conclusion and Contact Information  Catch Karla's first episode here: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/casual-cattle-conversations-podcast-shownotes/0ijj3c1vyqkspk4ls3xo7223qgqi77 Learn more and order your Pluck here: https://eatpluck.com/?ref=SHAYEWANNER Find more information and more episodes at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/

    23 min

  7. 11/17/2025

    Profitable Strategies for Marketing Heifers

    In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye Wanner interviews ranchers Jon and Patty about their approach to marketing open heifers. The conversation covers various sales methods, the importance of genomic testing, and strategies for building a high-quality herd. Jon and Patty share insights into their decade-long relationship with Wasem Red Angus, their balanced approach to breeding and selection, and the benefits of marketing through trusted partnerships. They also discuss the challenges they've faced and offer advice for other ranchers looking to improve their operations. This episode provides valuable knowledge for both seasoned ranchers and those new to the cattle industry.   Learn more about Pluck here: https://eatpluck.com/?ref=SHAYEWANNER   Find more information and more episodes at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/   00:00 Welcome to Casual Cattle Conversations 00:17 Meet Jon and Patty  00:57 Why Bet on the Beef Industry? 02:13 Marketing Open Heifers: Strategies and Experiences 08:58 The Role of Genomic Testing 10:12 Challenges and Solutions in Heifer Marketing 13:44 Advice for Fellow Ranchers 19:21 Exploring New Marketing Avenues 23:49 Balancing Terminal and Maternal Traits 26:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    28 min

  8. 11/10/2025

    What Ranchers Need to Know About Fetal Programming

    In this episode of the Casual Cattle Conversations podcast, Shaye talks with Kelly Sanders about fetal programming and its implications for cattle nutrition. Kelly shares his journey and passion for cattle, discussing his role at Westway Feed Products. He explains the technical aspects of fetal programming, the impacts of environmental and nutritional factors on cattle development, and provides practical advice for ranchers to ensure optimal cattle health and performance throughout gestation. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining body condition scores, using balanced nutrition programs, and leveraging available resources to mitigate adverse effects on cattle. The episode offers a comprehensive look at managing cattle nutrition to maximize genetic potential and overall herd quality. Learn more about Westway Feed Products here: https://bit.ly/4lBtKRK Find more information and more episodes at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ 00:39 Meet Kelly Sanders: Passion for Cattle Nutrition 02:53 Understanding Fetal Programming 04:25 Impact of Fetal Programming on the Beef Industry 15:53 Practical Steps for Ranchers 27:48 Final Thoughts and Resources

    29 min
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4.9
out of 5
72 Ratings

About

Casual Cattle Conversations is the podcast for beef cattle producers and ranchers to explore new ideas and hear stories that will help them improve their current management practices. Shaye Koester - Wanner connects listeners to other cattle producers and beef industry experts to discover what management practices, industry trends, current events and inspiring stories are impacting today’s beef cattle industry.

Information

  • Creator
    casualcattleconversations
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    261
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2019 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Casual Cattle Conversations

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