Join me as I sit down with the multi-talented Angela Boenisch of Highview Pastures, and we explore her fascinating transition from urban life to the heart of agriculture. Listen in as Angela shares her rich farming narrative, from her roots in dairy and hog farming to her current diverse homestead bustling with meat goats, cattle, rabbits, and layers. We cover everything from the joys and challenges of scaling up her farming operations to the integration of livestock with vegetable CSA, and...

Join me as I welcome Jordan Meyer to the Grazing Grass Podcast for a fascinating exploration of his farming evolution from conventional dairy to a holistic, grass-fed approach. Listen in as Jordan shares his journey, starting on his family's dairy farm and leading to the establishment of Wholesome Family Farms, where he and his wife now manage a diverse array of pasture-based livestock. You'll hear how an organic no-till project and the natural resurgence of perennial grasses sparked a...

Join me as we explore the pastoral symphony of grass-based dairy farming with Suzanne Karreman from Reverence Farms. Our conversation unfolds the harmonious blend of compassion and innovation on Suzanne's family-run operation, nestled in the Piedmont of North Carolina. We unravel the tapestry of their unique dairy practices, where 80 Jersey cows thrive on 100% grass-fed diets and calves stay with their mothers, challenging conventional dairy norms. The intricate dance of grazing management,...

Join us as we welcome Jenn Colby of Howling Wolf Farm to the Grazing Grass Podcast for a rich conversation on the art of grass-based sheep farming and land regeneration. Listen in as Jen shares her personal journey to farming, the wisdom she's accumulated through her podcast "Choosing to Farm," and her dedication to improving her Vermont land. Whether you're an aspiring sheep farmer or a seasoned hand, Jenn's insights into the importance of community learning and seeking mentorship are...

Join us as we welcome Webb Dulin, a dedicated farmer from Maryland's Eastern Shore, who walks us through his transformative journey into grass-fed beef farming. Webb shares his fascinating transition from crop farming to raising cattle, offering a glimpse into the unique challenges he faced due to environmental concerns and the area's high real estate values. Listen in as he reveals the strategies that helped him adapt his family's generational farming legacy into a thriving livestock...

In this episode of the Grazing Grass Podcast, Cal talks with Jake DeWoody - a regenerative farmer from Arkansas - about his journey in grass farming. Jake shares his thoughts on the importance of adapting farming practices to your specific context, the value of using technology and resources available on the internet, and their experiences with the Shade Shanty 600. Jake also provides insights into his methods for making the most out of their cattle herd and how moving towards regenerative...

In this episode, beginner rancher Nitesh Sakpal shares his transformative journey from conventional to regenerative farming. He talks about his experiences with Balancer cows, a cross between Gelbvieh and Red Angus breeds, and discusses the importance of rotational grazing and regenerative practices. The episode also delves into the challenges of managing mesquite trees, mechanical grubbing, and the benefits of working with the NRCS for grazing projects. Finally, Nitesh offers his advice for...

In this episode, we dive deep into the intricate world of grazing and livestock management with cattle behaviorist, Bob Kinford. He discusses the intriguing distinctions between the grazing patterns of different livestock and how understanding these can revolutionize your herd management strategies. Bob shares his insights on the effects of stress on livestock, the concept of 'cow time', and the potential of enhancing grass growth through strategic grazing. Social media:Website:...

In this episode, we're joined by Glenn McCaig, a devoted farmer and rare breed aficionado, who imparts his knowledge on the subject of regenerative grazing and holistic farming. Glenn takes us through his transformative journey from traditional farming techniques to embracing a more integrative and holistic method, underscoring the crucial role of adaptability and courage to take risks. Venturing into the fascinating world of Lynch Lineback cattle, Glenn unfolds their rich history, the...

In this episode, we talk to Pennsylvania-based sheep farmer Nathan Smelser to discuss his journey from being a novice to an experienced farmer. Nathan shares his experiences, emphasizing the importance of family dynamics, resilience, continuous learning, and regenerative grazing. He provides detailed information about establishing a farm, including the challenges of purchasing land with poor soil and installing fencing. The episode provides valuable insights and practical advice, particularly...

In this episode, we're joined by Meg Greski, an agricultural consultant and grass farmer based in Oklahoma. Meg talks about the significance of adaptive grazing and mental health in successful farming. She shares insightful experiences from her early career as an intern for grass farming expert, Greg Judy, where she learned about regenerative agriculture and fiscal management. Meg speaks about her journey in establishing Rhinestone Cattle Company, addressing challenges in land leasing, and...

In this episode, successful local farmer Stephen Skrenta of Acabonac Farms in Long Island, New York takes listeners on a journey through Long Island’s thriving agricultural scene. Stephen shares his experience of growing his business from a 20-acre farm to a sprawling enterprise with grass-fed beef, lamb, pork, and chicken. He discusses the unique challenges and rewards of farming on an island, from the intricacies of livestock farming infrastructure to navigating the steep learning curve in...

In this episode, desert rancher Alejandro Carrillo shares his experiences and insights on regenerative desert ranching. With over 30,000 acres of land, Alejandro discusses the art of holistic management, the challenges of grazing cattle in a desert, and how technology can revolutionize ranching practices. He highlights the importance of having the right cattle genetics for a given environment, the shift from conventional to regenerative ranching, and the respect for natural succession that...

In this episode, we explore the intriguing world of grass-fed farming in South Africa with Naude Schoeman. Naude shares his journey, revealing secrets of high-density grazing and discussing how they navigated challenges such as droughts to build a resilient grass-fed livestock operation. He sheds light on the importance of farm diversification, providing valuable insights into the nuances of grass farming. This conversation illuminates their family's innovative approach to farming and their...

In this episode, we delve into the journey of Aaron Prinz, a first-generation farmer passionate about regenerative agriculture. Starting from his roots in 4-H, Aaron talks about his experiences through earning an Animal Science degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo to owning and managing Prinz Pasture in South Dakota. The conversation explores his struggles, triumphs, and innovations in farming. He speaks about the challenges of finding affordable land in California, adapting to South Dakota's...

In this episode, Catherine Kirchner shares her inspiring journey from being a teacher to becoming a regenerative farmer. She recounts the challenges she faced and the steps she took to establish herself in the agricultural industry. Catherine's farming philosophy focuses on building a symbiotic relationship with the land and animals, leading her to unconventional methods like stacking enterprises. This approach has not only increased profitability but also fostered sustainability. She shares...

In this episode, Tanner McBride of STK Cattle and Hay talks about the complexities of ranching. Tanner shares some hard-earned wisdom from steering his family's farm through turbulent times. His story of buying and selling cattle, and implementing rotational grazing strategies are lessons learned from a life in the saddle. Learn how he leveraged his herd to his advantage, and the challenges he faced in switching from his father's ranching methods to establish his own distinctive style....

In this episode, we are joined by Grant Estrade who, along with his wife, Kate Estrade, run Local Coolings Farm and Laughing Buddha Nursery. Grant shares his journey from urban life to livestock farming. He explains how he started with pigs and gradually diversified his farm to include layers, goats, and beef cattle. His strategic buying and selling in the commodity market allowed him to grow his herd from two to 24 cattle. He also emphasizes his commitment to environmental stewardship, using...

In this episode, Dan Glenn from Deep Grass Graziers, shares his unique approach to farming, focusing on rearing top-quality, grass-fed beef. Dan details his unexpected journey from an English degree holder to becoming a farmer and discusses his strategies, such as using genetics in cattle farming and optimizing cattle environments. He also provides insights into the challenges of producing a superior steak product, his strategies for sustainability, and advice for those starting in...

In this episode, Taylor Muglia shares her fascinating journey from a student to a mentor in the world of regenerative agriculture. Her path takes her across the globe, from the U.S. to Italy, where she honed her butchery skills and learned about food and safety regulations. Upon returning to the U.S., she adapted to a new community while managing a custom herd of cattle, sheep, and poultry. The discussion then shifts to Quivira Coalition's New Agrarian Program (where Taylor works as the NAP's...

On this episode, we sat down with Mason Lantz, a first-generation farmer who transformed his life by diving into farming without any prior experience. The discussion delves into Mason's journey, from learning about grazing and homesteading through YouTube videos and books to managing his own cattle farm. The episode also covers the challenges of setting up a cattle farm, the integration of IoT devices in farming, and Mason's innovative strategies for cost reduction. Finally, Mason shares...

In this episode, Jason Contreras, shares his inspirational journey from being diagnosed with cancer to becoming a homesteader in North Carolina. After his diagnosis, Jason and his wife decided to pursue a healthier, more self-sustainable lifestyle, which led them to leave their city life in Los Angeles and start a small scale farming operation. They began by raising chickens and gradually added more livestock such as pigs and steers. Jason discusses the complexities of his new lifestyle,...

In this episode, Michael Vance of Southern Reds joins us to talk about their operation in Texas. Our conversation revolves around the intricacies of grass-based cattle farming, with emphasis on the importance of selecting the right genetics for the environment, the challenge of acclimating genetics, and the significance of consistency in breeding. Michael also discusses what grass genetics really is in the Overgrazing section. The conversation further delves into the potential for increased...

In this podcast episode, Joshua Deck, a homesteader from southwest Missouri, talks about his journey into regenerative ranching and sustainable farming. Joshua discusses his techniques for transforming his 20-acre homestead into a thriving regenerative ranch. He shares his experiences with different types of livestock, soil management, garden and mushroom cultivation, and pastured poultry. He also shares insights on the importance of observing the land before starting with permaculture...

In this episode, Benton and Christy Line discuss their farming journey at Guided Rock Farms in Western Nebraska. The duo share their unique approach to soil health and livestock management, focusing on minimizing soil disturbance, maintaining a diverse crop rotation, and using livestock for weed control and fertilization. Their farming operation is not limited to crop farming; they also raise Navajo Churro sheep, an ancient breed prized for its wool. They share the intricacies of their sheep...