As Thanksgiving approaches, our focus shifts to the star of the holiday feast: the turkey. While many folks might be tempted to choose their turkey solely based on size, there is so much more to consider when selecting the perfect Thanksgiving bird for your family. Tyler Dawley, affectionately known as the "Head Chicken Wrangler" at Big Bluff Ranch, and his family have been deeply rooted in ranching since the 1960s. They embrace holistic management practices, producing top-quality, organic poultry. Today, Tyler shares his knowledge of sustainable and regenerative agriculture and explores the nuances of turkey labeling and why it matters. He breaks down the confusing terminology, pointing out key factors to consider including the turkey's diet. According to Tyler, opting for turkeys that are organic, pasture-raised, and part of regenerative farming practices, offers a healthier and more flavorful meal for our loved ones. In this episode, Tyler talks to Jen about holistic and regenerative agriculture, the world of Thanksgiving turkey labels, and the impact of the turkey’s diet on meat quality. Key Takeaways [02:06] - How Tyler became the head chicken wrangler. [03:38] - The origin of the name Big Bluff Ranch. [04:30] - Jen and Tyler discuss the difference between turkey and chicken labels.  [07:25] - How the turkey became symbolic of Thanksgiving. [08:35] - Why you shouldn’t buy self-basted or injected turkeys. [10:43] - The meaning of a young turkey. [15:25] - Why you should avoid 100% vegetarian feed poultry.  [18:16] - What makes Big Bluff Ranch’s turkeys different? [23:17] - The difference between pasture-raised meat versus conventional.  Quotes [05:12] - “Something like 80% of the turkeys are consumed on Thanksgiving.” ~ Tyler Dawley [15:52] - “Turkeys and chickens are omnivorous. They’re little baby dinosaurs.” ~ Tyler Dawley [20:35] - “We have to realize that all the things that apply to humans apply to animals as well.” ~ Tyler Dawley Links  Tyler Dawley LinkedIn Big Bluff Ranch The U.S. Department of Agriculture Diestel Turkey Ranch Butterball Connect with our host Jen on Instagram Jen on Facebook Wake Up and Read the Labels! Schedule a 15 Min Breakthrough Chat with a WURL Food Coach! Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Podcasts Get $10 off your turkey order For $10 off your turkey, use this code: WAKEUPTDAY23 https://perennialpasturesranch.com/