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 farming.
Continue reading e74. The Power of Genetics with Dan Glenne72. Tech Savvy to Farm Savvy with Mason Lantz
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 valuable advice for aspiring and experienced farmers alike, discussing details about grazing, breeding cows, and buying calves. This episode provides an inspiring and insightful look into the life and work of a modern farmer.
Continue reading e72. Tech Savvy to Farm Savvy with Mason Lantze70. Grazing Out of the Box with Michael Vance
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 opportunity in the regenerative grazing movement and how to build a successful business model around it.
Continue reading e70. Grazing Out of the Box with Michael Vancee58. Grazing on the Wild Side with Christina Traeger
In this episode, Christina Traeger of Rolling Hills Cattle Company shares her journey as a grass farmer from central Minnesota, raising British white cattle, hogs, sheep, and poultry on a grass-based operation. She discusses regenerative farming and innovative livestock management, including the processes of rotational grazing and bale grazing, which she has successfully implemented on her farm. Christina also talks about her experience raising unique Mangalitsa pigs and the challenges of running a farm as a single mom to three kids. She also touches on her experience with grazing cattle on DNR leased land and the positive impact it has on wildlife.
Continue reading e58. Grazing on the Wild Side with Christina Traegere56. Turning Bedrock into Thriving Grazing Land with Claudia Kaelin
In this episode, Claudia Kaelin shares her experiences raising cattle, goats, and turkeys on Fossil Ridge Farms in Canada, detailing the challenges of grazing on bedrock and the importance of forage utilization. She also discusses the regulations and quotas Canadian farmers must adhere to and the importance of bridging the gap between consumers and their food sources, the personable nature of turkeys, and her experiences with full-blood Limousin cattle. Additionally, Claudia shares invaluable advice on working deliberately, understanding the dangers of moving parts, and taking extra precautions when working with animals.
Continue reading e56. Turning Bedrock into Thriving Grazing Land with Claudia Kaeline54. A Desert Rancher’s Journey with Javier Mesta
In this episode, Javier Mesta, a rancher from Chihuahua, Mexico, shares his inspiring journey of transforming a 3,000-acre desert ranch through high-density grazing. By effectively managing the land and avoiding overgrazing, Javier has increased his stocking rate by 2.5 times and plans to double it once more. He discusses the challenges and rewards of managing a ranch in a desert environment, the importance of proper grazing, and how high-density grazing can lead to better regeneration of grasslands and improved land value. Javier also shares his experience with obtaining carbon credits, the certification process, and the use of satellite technology to monitor carbon capture on individual ranches.
Continue reading e54. A Desert Rancher’s Journey with Javier Mestae53. Racing to Greener Pastures with Taylor Moyer
In this episode, Taylor Moyer, owner of Ridgeview Land and Cattle, shares his journey in agriculture and innovative cattle management while balancing his career in NASCAR. From observing the land before making changes to utilizing technology for automation and monitoring, Taylor discusses his approach to rotational grazing, cattle herd development, and artificial insemination. They also explore the benefits of bale grazing for regenerating farm ground and the importance of networking and advocating for agriculture through social media. Tune in for a fascinating conversation on farming, business, and the passion for a rural lifestyle.
Continue reading e53. Racing to Greener Pastures with Taylor Moyere51. The Regen Ranch Story: A Holistic Approach to Sustainable and Profitable Livestock Management with Christine Martin
In this episode, Christine Martin shared her journey from homesteading to operating the Regen Ranch in East Texas. She discusses how her health issues led her to clean up her diet and start producing her own food. Christine also talks about holistic management, which helped her shift from homesteading to running a profitable ranch. She shares her experience with managing livestock, parasite loads, and proper infrastructure, as well as using turkeys to mitigate parasite load in sheep. In addition, Christine discusses direct-to-consumer marketing strategies for selling sheep and turkey products, focusing on farmers’ markets and online shipping. She also touched on the concept of planned grazing, which allows for better recovery and management of the land.
Continue reading e51. The Regen Ranch Story: A Holistic Approach to Sustainable and Profitable Livestock Management with Christine Martine49. Regenerative Farming and Livestock Management at Greenacres Foundation with Leevi Stump
In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Leevi Stump, Livestock Manager at Greenacres Foundation in Cincinnati, Ohio. We discussed the regenerative farming practices they use at Greenacres, including raising a variety of livestock such as grass-fed and finished beef and sheep, pasture-raised chickens and turkeys, and heritage pigs. We explored the benefits of using smaller breed genetics like Aberdeen Angus for grass-fed and finished cattle operations, as well as the importance of rotational grazing and avoiding herbicides and pesticides for overall soil health and ecology. We also delved into the management and integration of various livestock species on the farm, such as integrating sheep into the cattle herd, creating a “flerd,” and the potential benefits of parasite control and protection from predators. Additionally, we discussed the process of raising meat birds on pasture, ensuring their health and wellbeing through the use of chicken tractors and diverse diets. We also touched on their turkey operation, focusing on the broad-breasted bronze breed, and the growth of their pig enterprise. Finally, we explored the use of pigs on the farm to disrupt and root up invasive honeysuckle in wooded areas, improving the overall quality of the land for other livestock species. We also highlighted various resources and books related to grazing and regenerative farming, emphasizing the importance of time management, creating a game plan, and having a supportive team in the farming industry. Join me as I learn more about Greenacres and their incredible work in regenerative farming practices and livestock management.
Continue reading e49. Regenerative Farming and Livestock Management at Greenacres Foundation with Leevi Stumpe48. Overcoming Challenges in Regenerative Agriculture: Christian Carreon’s Story
In this episode of the Grazing Grass podcast, join me as I dive into the fascinating journey of Christian Carreon in regenerative agriculture. We explore the challenges faced in his family’s ranch in Mexico, his experiences with grazing management in Chihuahua, and the crucial role of well-designed electric fences and water supply systems. Christian shares invaluable insights on the importance of persistence, adaptability, and ambition in achieving success, as well as the benefits of adapting cattle breeds to their environment. We also discuss valuable resources and advice for those just starting out in ranching. Don’t miss this in-depth conversation packed with practical tips and inspiring stories from Christian’s journey in the world of regenerative agriculture.
Continue reading e48. Overcoming Challenges in Regenerative Agriculture: Christian Carreon’s Story