Grazing Grass Podcast : Sharing Stories of Regenerative Ag Cal Hardage

Join me, Cal Hardage, on the Grazing Grass Podcast for an enlightening discussion on the intricacies of cattle raising, where we examine the second part of the Lasater Philosophy, focusing on the significance of reproductive efficiency in beef production. Discover Tom Lasater's unconventional approach to heifer retention, advocating for breeding at a young age and the merits of a condensed, 65-day breeding period. Listen in as I reflect on the initial hesitation surrounding these methods, the advantages they present for calving ahead of the herd, and how this strategy can transform a grass-fed beef operation. The dialogue invites ranchers to engage with these breeding philosophies and assess their practical applications on the field.
The episode also delves into the emotional and economic challenges of herd management, sharing a personal tale of a difficult calving and the subsequent culling decision, highlighting the necessity of record-keeping in monitoring herd progress. Explore the concept of performance testing in natural environments, the principle of direct selection in breeding, and how immediate, decisive changes can yield a more efficient herd. Engage with the narrative of how ignoring non-essential traits and prioritizing reproductive efficiency can dramatically enhance a ranch's productivity, as we dissect these topics with the wisdom gleaned from experiences both personal and shared by others in the field, including insights from Allen Williams, as discussed in the Herd Quitter podcast.

Join us as Elizabeth Stuart from Crossing Creeks Farm shares her enlightening transition to grass-based livestock production and how her family's pursuit of health through better quality meat led them to start their own farming venture. Elizabeth's candid recount of their journey from vegetarianism to grass-fed beef enthusiasts, alongside their commitment to regenerative grazing practices, provides a compelling narrative that resonates with anyone interested in sustainable agriculture and personal wellness. In our discussion, Elizabeth reveals the thoughtful steps they took to ensure their farming operations were not only environmentally responsible but also capable of leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.
As we explore the nitty-gritty of starting and expanding a farm, Elizabeth imparts valuable strategies that were instrumental in the growth of Crossing Creeks Farm. From the strategic placement of over 7,000 feet of water lines to the choice of electrified fencing, we get an insider’s look at the importance of efficient infrastructure. Balancing farm duties with off-farm jobs, she highlights how initial investments in systems like fencing and watering can pave the way for long-term success. Her insights on diversification through the addition of other species, and the implementation of direct-to-consumer models, underline the resilience and adaptability needed to sustain a profitable farm store year-round.
In the final stretch of our conversation, Elizabeth offers advice on maintaining livestock health through natural practices, emphasizing the power of mineral management learned from Pat Colby's methodologies. As we chat about the daily operations and the utility of farm tools, the message is clear: starting small and dreaming big is key for those embarking on their farming path. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical tips, inspiring stories, and an invitation to engage with a community passionate about regenerative farming and the grass beneath our feet.
Links mentioned in the episode:Crossing Creeks FarmCrossing Creeks Farm on FacebookCrossing Creeks Farm on Instagram
Noble Research InstituteGrazing Grass InsidersGrazing Grass Community

From the rolling hills of southeast Nebraska, Doug Ferguson, also known as Mr. Cattlemaster, joins us to discuss the transformative strategies that turned his cattle passion into a seven-figure stocker operation. Doug's narrative isn't just a tale of success; it's a playbook for resilience and innovation in the face of societal pressure and market unpredictability. As we walk through his life's work, you'll find that the key to thriving in agriculture may just lie in a combination of marketing savvy and an unwavering commitment to one's dreams.
Strap in for a masterclass on adaptability in cattle marketing, as we share firsthand accounts of navigating the complex dance of stocker operations. You'll learn how a willingness to challenge the status quo and embrace market timing can lead to profitable buying strategies and auction success. Ever heard of utilizing price relationships to stay afloat during market downturns? We've got you covered. Plus, we tackle the life-changing impact of rotational grazing on pasture management, offering an honest look at how an experimental year can lead to unexpected benefits for both the land and its stewards.
Relationships are the backbone of any industry, and the cattle business is no exception. Discover the importance of connecting with trusted cattle buyers, selecting the right sale barns, and even the surprising everyday tools that are indispensable on the farm. For those new to the cattle game, Doug serves up some golden advice: focus on mastering marketing and inventory management. Ready to elevate your cattle operation? Tune in and join the herd as we explore these game-changing insights with Mr. Cattlemaster.
Links Mentioned in the Episode:www.mrcattlemaster.com

Today, Rachelle Meyer of The Mindful Farmers and Wholesome Family Farms joins me to take a look at the interweaving of regenerative farming practices, family life, and personal growth. Rachelle shares her journey from nursing to the hands-on world of farming, illuminating the significant role that community engagement and savvy marketing play in the agricultural sphere. Listen in as we uncover the nuts and bolts of managing a thriving, grass-based livestock operation while nurturing a growing family.
In this conversation, Rachelle also sheds light on the unique challenges and victories that come with marketing farm-fresh products, like raw milk, directly to consumers. Her innovative strategies, such as maintaining margin time for balancing business and homeschooling, utilizing digital tools for direct marketing, and the personal touch of bringing her youngest child to farmer's markets, paint a picture of a life dedicated to both entrepreneurial savvy and heartfelt family connections. Rachelle's story is a testament to the power of direct consumer relationships in the ever-evolving landscape of farm-to-table sales.
Tune in for practical insights as Rachelle dives into the intricate dance of time management and setting farm priorities. From making the tough decision to focus on what truly benefits the farm's future, to mastering the art of intentional scheduling and goal-setting, Rachelle's strategies are a masterclass in organizing a fulfilling life amidst the bustle of farm responsibilities. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or someone fascinated by the nexus of mindset and agriculture, this episode offers valuable lessons on transforming thought patterns to achieve success in farming and beyond.
Links mentioned in the episodeThe Mindful FarmersFarm to Consumer Legal Defense FundRealmilk.com

Listen in as I share the inspiration behind my latest discussion on the Lasater Philosophy of Cattle Raising, a methodology deeply rooted in my livestock upbringing and influenced by Allen Williams' insights from the Herd Quitter podcast. We walk through the foundational principles of cattle breeding, emphasizing the crucial role of disposition and the benefits of cultivating calmer, more manageable herds. Personal anecdotes shed light on the significance of these practices, and I explore how low-stress handling techniques not only enhance animal welfare but also contribute to the efficiency of day-to-day farm operations.
This conversation extends into the essential components of a successful livestock breeding program, as we talk about the importance of milk production as a performance indicator, selecting the right breed, and the strategic investment in quality genetics. We consider the intricacies of creating a closed herd, the compatibility of management styles, and the impact of animal temperament on breeding outcomes. I encourage our Grazing Grass community to join the discussion, sharing their own experiences and insights into the rich tapestry of cattle raising philosophy.

Join us as we welcome Clay Conry from the Working Cows podcast to share his unexpected journey from having a tepid interest in ranching to managing a thriving agricultural enterprise. Clay opens up about the evolution of his perspective, detailing the transition to embracing the industry and the steps he's taken to optimize forage on his quarter-section of land. His insights into the family-operated ranch's dynamics, the importance of economic analysis in treating ranching as a business, and the challenges and rewards of raising livestock provide valuable lessons for anyone in the field.
In this conversation, we tackle the intricate world of ranching, from public and private land management to the complexities of family ranching succession. Clay gives a candid account of the public land grazing intricacies, and the proactive approach to succession planning, ensuring long-term operation success. We also venture into the nuances of sheep farming, comparing the economic and environmental considerations of wool and hair sheep, and discussing the shift in industry trends that influence agricultural practices.
Listen in as Clay discusses the comparison between cattle and sheep industries, addressing current market conditions and the advantages of managing feed costs and grazing efficiently. We also delve into the personal growth aspects of ranching, such as navigating imposter syndrome in public speaking and seeking wisdom beyond just knowledge accumulation. Clay's podcasting journey, from its inception to becoming a treasure trove of ag wisdom, is also on the table, providing listeners with a multifaceted look at the world of agriculture and content creation. Don't miss this enriching episode that's sure to offer a wealth of knowledge and encouragement for anyone looking to grow in the agriculture industry.
Links:Working Cows PodcastRanchingPodcast.comNoble Research Institute Grazing