Jason Schoenfelder, a passionate advocate for sustainable cattle farming, is our featured guest. Raised on the sun-soaked ranches of Southeast Arizona, Jason's journey took him to the verdant pastures of Northeast Oregon, where he has embraced innovative, pasture-based cattle finishing operations. Influenced by the revolutionary ideas of Allen Savory, Jason is dedicated to enhancing rangeland health and crafting economically sustainable models in the cattle industry. His commitment to high animal welfare standards and innovative grazing techniques makes him a beacon of responsible and eco-friendly ranching.

Topics covered in this episode:

• Jason's upbringing and introduction to rotational grazing in Southeast Arizona
• Transition to pasture-based cattle finishing in Northeast Oregon
• The influence of Allen Savory and holistic management practices
• Challenges and successes in the cattle industry
• Implementation of regenerative agriculture through the Grazewell program
• Pasture management techniques, including strategic crop rotations
• Insights into maintaining soil health and resource management, especially water
• Importance of retaining ownership in cattle breeding for profitability
• Consumer demand for high-quality, sustainably produced beef
• Cooperative models like Country Natural Beef and their impact on sustainable practices

Listeners should tune in to this episode to gain a deeper understanding of sustainable cattle farming practices and the challenges and rewards of pasture-based operations. Jason Schoenfelder's journey offers valuable insights into the intricate balance required in resource management and innovative approaches to cattle feeding. Whether you are a seasoned rancher or an aspiring one, this episode provides practical guidance and inspiration for producing quality beef responsibly. By exploring themes of ecological balance and sustainability, Jason's story encourages listeners to embrace forward-thinking practices that benefit both the land and the beef industry.

Links Mentioned in the Episode

Northwest Pasture Beef

Country Natural Beef

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond
GBT Angus

Grazing Grass Links
New Listener Resource Guide

Provide feedback for the podcast
Website
Insiders
Resources (Coming Soon)
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Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction and Fast Five with Jason Schoenfelder
• (01:28) - Jason's Background and Grazing Journey
• (02:34) - Welcome to the Grazing Grass Podcast
• (03:09) - Noble Research Institute Courses
• (04:11) - Cal's Grazing Update
• (05:28) - Join the Grazing Grass Community
• (05:58) - Jason's Early Career and Experiences
• (13:23) - Transition to Beef Northwest Feeders
• (16:10) - Understanding GAP Standards
• (23:02) - Pasture Finishing Program Details
• (29:48) - Country Natural Beef Cooperative
• (35:38) - Ownership and Financial Ramifications for Ranchers
• (36:53) - Grading and Market Value of Cattle
• (40:38) - Introduction to Grazewell Program
• (44:27) - Grazewell Program Details and Implementation
• (49:41) - Country Natural Beef and Market Reach
• (50:44) - Final Thoughts and Advice for Ranchers
• (53:42) - Famous Four Questions
• (01:02:41) - Podcast Goals and Listener Engagement

Karson Rippstein is a rancher from The Rip Ranch in central Utah. His family's involvement in the industry dating back to the late 1800s. Karson has effectively combined traditional ranching methods with innovative practices, transforming undervalued plots of land into a thriving and sustainable cattle business. His journey is marked by resilience, creativity, and a commitment to sustainable grazing techniques, which have allowed his family's ranch to prosper even on less desirable land.

Topics covered in this episode:

• Family ranching and grazing land utilization
• Building a beef herd on undervalued land
• Expanding cattle ranching through the formation of an LLC
• Family communication and transparency in ranching
• Transitioning to low-input cattle ranching
• Challenges of public lands grazing and breeding
• Redmond's approach to mineral supplementation
• Nuances of mineral supplementation in cattle nutrition
• Recommended resources and tools for ranch management

Listeners should tune into this episode to gain valuable insights into modern cattle ranching and sustainable grazing practices. Karson Rippstein's story offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing how resilience and strategic decision-making can lead to success in the cattle industry. Whether you're a seasoned rancher or new to the field, Karson's experiences and practical advice provide inspiration and guidance for anyone looking to improve their ranching operations. His focus on collaboration, efficient land use, and natural supplementation offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in modern ranching.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Ripp Ranch on YouTube

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond
GBT Angus

Grazing Grass Links
New Listener Resource Guide

Provide feedback for the podcast
Website
Insiders
Resources (Coming Soon)
Community (on Facebook)
Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Ranching with Family
• (00:10) - Fast Five with Karson Rippstein
• (01:38) - Welcome to the Grazing Grass Podcast
• (03:04) - Electric Fence Challenges
• (06:24) - Karson's Ranching Journey
• (08:01) - Starting with Small Herds
• (23:38) - Forming the Family LLC
• (34:16) - Shifting to Low Input Cows
• (41:40) - Understanding Public Land Grazing
• (42:45) - Grazing on Public Land: Permits and Challenges
• (45:43) - Managing Cattle Breeding on Shared Grazing Lands
• (46:28) - Adapting Calving Seasons for Better Efficiency
• (51:34) - Innovative Grazing Practices and Virtual Fencing
• (52:52) - Extending Grazing Seasons for Profitability
• (54:31) - Introduction to Redmond Agriculture
• (56:47) - Redmond's Unique Mineral Products
• (01:00:46) - Philosophy on Mineral Supplementation
• (01:16:32) - Famous Four Questions
• (01:20:21) - Practical Tips for New Ranchers

Big Tom Perkins is a seasoned farmer who has successfully navigated the challenging transition from cattle to sheep farming. With his extensive experience at Con-O-Creek Farm in western Pennsylvania, he has become a beacon of innovation in livestock management and rotational grazing. His story is one of resilience, having faced and overcome significant obstacles such as strip mining and labor shortages. Through embracing modern techniques and programs like the National Sheep Improvement Program, Big Tom has revitalized his farm, focusing on traits like weight gain and parasite resistance to build a thriving sheep operation.

Topics Covered

• Transition from cattle to sheep farming
• Rotational grazing techniques
• Overcoming environmental and labor challenges
• The impact of strip mining on farming
• Utilization of the National Sheep Improvement Program
• Importance of breeding and genetics in sheep farming
• Effective fencing strategies for livestock
• Managing multiple lambing seasons
• Starting and producing the Grazing Sheep Podcast
• Personal growth through farming and podcasting

Listeners should tune in to this episode to gain invaluable insights into sustainable farming practices from a seasoned expert. Big Tom Perkins not only shares practical wisdom and innovative strategies but also inspires with his personal journey of adaptation and growth. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or new to the field, this podcast offers lessons in both farming and life, encouraging a shift towards more sustainable and efficient agricultural practices.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Con-O-Creek Farm
Grazing Sheep Podcast

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond
GBT Angus

Grazing Grass Links
New Listener Resource Guide

Provide feedback for the podcast
Website
Insiders
Resources (Coming Soon)
Community (on Facebook)
Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Today's Episode
• (00:18) - Meet Big Tom Perkins
• (01:27) - The Grazing Grass Podcast Overview
• (03:40) - Challenges and Innovations in Grazing
• (04:39) - Tom's Farming Background
• (10:43) - Transition to Rotational Grazing
• (17:30) - Adding Sheep to the Operation
• (20:09) - National Sheep Improvement Program
• (30:12) - Grazing Management and Fencing Solutions
• (41:49) - Marketing and Breeding Strategies
• (42:18) - Selling Older Sheep and Meat Market Plans
• (43:02) - Breeding Strategies and Hybrid Vigor
• (43:54) - Lambing Seasons and Management
• (44:24) - Mothering Ability and Culling Decisions
• (45:20) - The Excitement of Lambing Season
• (47:02) - National Sheep Improvement Program (NSIP) Insights
• (55:14) - Starting the Grazing Sheep Podcast
• (59:10) - Podcast Production and Listener Growth
• (01:06:15) - Favorite Resources and Tools for Grazing
• (01:12:02) - Advice for New Shepherds
• (01:15:01) - Where to Find More Information
• (01:16:22) - Final Thoughts and Outro

In this episode , we feature Austin Unruh, the founder of Trees for Graziers. Austin's journey into the world of silvopasture and agroforestry began in 2017 when he started planting trees along streams to improve water quality. Since then, his passion for integrating trees into pasture systems has grown, and he has worked with grass-fed dairy operators to transform their pastures using innovative agroforestry practices. His expertise in overcoming challenges, such as unsuccessful tree planting attempts and livestock management, has positioned him as a leader in the field, achieving a remarkable 90% success rate in tree establishment.

Topics covered in the episode include:

• The integration of trees into pasture systems through silvopasture
• Challenges and opportunities in implementing silvopasture
• Strategies for protecting young trees from cattle and other threats
• Best practices for tree establishment and care
• Tree care and watering tips
• Insights into silvopasture resources and tools

You should listen to this episode to gain a deeper understanding of how integrating trees into pastures can create a harmonious balance between agriculture and ecology. Austin Unruh shares invaluable insights, practical strategies, and lessons learned from his experiences, making it an essential listen for anyone interested in regenerative agriculture and agroforestry. Whether you're a seasoned grazer or new to the concept, this episode promises to inspire and educate, offering tips and resources to help you successfully implement silvopasture on your farm.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Trees for Graziers

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond
GBT Angus

Grazing Grass Links
New Listener Resource Guide

Provide feedback for the podcast
Website
Insiders
Resources (Coming Soon)
Community (on Facebook)
Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast

Chapters

Becky Szarzynski is a pioneering farmer in the field of sustainable farming and regenerative agriculture. With her independent venture, Ember Cattle Company, based in Fairfield, Virginia, Becky has transformed her family's farming legacy into a solo endeavor. Her journey is marked by innovative practices such as intensifying grazing techniques and focusing on more frequent moves. Becky's story is a compelling narrative of resilience and passion as she navigates the complexities of transitioning from a joint family operation to a successful independent farm business, all while maintaining strong family ties.

Topics covered in this episode:

• Transition from joint family farming to independent farming
• Innovations in grazing practices and cattle management
• Challenges of non-selective grazing and managing Sericea lespedeza
• Integration of sheep alongside cattle
• Emotional and mental challenges of family farm dynamics
• The role of cattle genetics in improving herd quality
• Importance of dung beetles in regenerative agriculture
• Efficient cattle management with ATVs
• Future prospects of regenerative agriculture in the USA

Listening to this podcast offers invaluable insights into the world of regenerative agriculture through Becky's firsthand experiences and expertise. Whether you're an aspiring farmer or a seasoned agricultural enthusiast, Becky's innovative approaches and practical tips provide a comprehensive understanding of sustainable farming practices. Her journey underscores the potential for personal growth and success in agriculture, encouraging listeners to embrace both the challenges and rewards of this dynamic field.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Ember Cattle Company

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond
GBT Angus

Grazing Grass Links
New Listener Resource Guide

Provide feedback for the podcast
Website
Insiders
Resources (Coming Soon)
Community (on Facebook)
Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction and Guest Revisit
• (00:15) - Fast Five Questions
• (01:05) - Podcast Overview and Sponsor Message
• (02:51) - Farm Update and Grazing Goals
• (05:35) - Becky's Journey and Farm Split
• (08:01) - Challenges and New Beginnings
• (12:31) - Family Dynamics and Support
• (22:40) - Grazing Practices and Innovations
• (35:08) - Genetics and Culling Standards
• (42:37) - Feeding Strategies and Genetic Improvement
• (44:08) - Considering Sheep and Overgrazing
• (46:50) - Introduction to Dung Beetles
• (49:52) - Dung Beetle Lifecycle and Benefits
• (53:45) - Challenges and Observations with Dung Beetles
• (01:04:37) - Advice for New Farmers
• (01:20:03) - Future of Regenerative Agriculture
• (01:25:21) - Conclusion and Resources

Eric Chaya is a visionary in the realm of sustainable agriculture and military synergy. Originating from Wisconsin, Eric's journey has taken him from a traditional dairy-rich environment to pioneering innovative agricultural practices on military lands in California. His career path was notably influenced by his military service, which included a transformative period at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Here, he began to experiment with regenerative farming techniques using livestock such as cattle, pigs, and chickens to rejuvenate land. Eric's passion for sustainable farming and his military discipline have merged to create the Regenerative Grazing Open Air Lab (R-GOAL) in San Luis Obispo, where he continues to blend agricultural innovation with military training to enhance land stewardship and community resilience.

The podcast covers a range of topics, including:

• Eric's transition from Wisconsin to California and his introduction to regenerative agriculture
• His experiences in Africa and the U.S. with livestock relocation
• The integration of agricultural practices into military training environments
• The successful collaboration between military personnel and local ranchers
• The innovative grazing management practices on Department of Defense lands
• The personal anecdotes of his journey, including the emotional decision to part with his Brahman herd
• The ecological benefits observed from these practices, such as increased wildlife sightings and improved landscapes

Listeners should tune in to this episode to gain insights into the unique intersection of military operations and sustainable agriculture. Eric's story is not only inspiring but also offers practical lessons on how dedication and adaptability can lead to remarkable outcomes in land management. The podcast provides a compelling blueprint for future initiatives that harmonize land use, community resilience, and ecological benefits, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in regenerative farming, military innovation, or environmental sustainability.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Eric on LinkedIn

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond
GBT Angus

Grazing Grass Links
New Listener Resource Guide

Provide feedback for the podcast
Website
Insiders
Resources (Coming Soon)
Community (on Facebook)
Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Eric Czaja and Regenerative Ranching
• (00:20) - Fast Five: Quick Questions with Eric
• (01:09) - Eric's Farming Journey and Early Experiences
• (01:30) - Welcome to the Grazing Grass Podcast
• (02:06) - Insights on Regenerative Grazing
• (04:44) - Eric's Military Background and Transition to Farming
• (06:47) - Starting with Livestock: Pigs, Chickens, and Cows
• (17:24) - Moving to California and New Beginnings
• (25:42) - The Regenerative Grazing Open Air Lab Project
• (39:38) - Range Control and Personal Management
• (40:04) - Meeting the Rancher
• (40:49) - Innovative Grazing Techniques
• (42:21) - Coordination with Range Control
• (43:55) - Training and Grazing Integration
• (47:40) - Challenges and Lessons Learned
• (50:35) - Project Duration and Future Plans
• (51:05) - Benefits and Observations
• (53:13) - Tools and Resources
• (54:39) - Final Thoughts and Reflections

Ross McGarva is a seasoned rancher with deep roots in the agricultural world. His family has been involved in ranching since 1918, and Ross himself has embarked on a remarkable journey across the United States, managing various livestock species such as cattle, meat goats, and hair sheep. Having transitioned from California to Texas, with stops in Oregon, Ross has accumulated a wealth of experience in livestock management and sustainable farming practices. His story is filled with captivating anecdotes and valuable lessons drawn from his family's rich ranching history and his own innovative ventures, such as revitalizing a meat processing business and adopting high-density grazing techniques.

Throughout the episode, listeners will explore a diverse range of topics related to livestock management and sustainable farming, including:

• The intricacies of managing goats and dealing with predators.
• The challenges of meat processing and direct-to-consumer sales.
• The innovative use of high-density grazing techniques to improve soil health and ecological balance. -
• Practical insights into the use of electric fencing.
• The importance of generational transition in farming.
• Tools and resources that can enhance farming efficiency.
• Economic and logistical challenges faced in the meat processing industry.
• The impact of environmental factors on agricultural planning.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in agriculture, whether you are a seasoned farmer or someone just beginning to explore the field. Ross McGarva's wealth of knowledge and experience provides invaluable insights into successful livestock management and sustainable farming practices. His journey offers inspiration and practical advice for adapting to the ever-evolving agricultural landscape. With a mix of humor, personal anecdotes, and expert guidance, this episode will not only educate but also motivate listeners to pursue innovative solutions and strategies for achieving success and sustainability in agriculture.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
McGarva Ranch Pasture Division

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

Redmond

Grazing Grass Links
New Listener Resource Guide

Provide feedback for the podcast
Website
Insiders
Resources (Coming Soon)
Community (on Facebook)
Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Ross McGarva's Journey
• (00:29) - Fast Five with Ross McGarva
• (00:57) - Ross's Early Life and Family Ranch
• (01:44) - Livestock and Grazing Practices
• (04:40) - Challenges and Epiphanies in Ranching
• (06:58) - Transition to Intensive Grazing
• (22:04) - Meat Processing Business Insights
• (29:25) - Lessons from Meat Processing
• (43:59) - Current Endeavors in Texas
• (44:33) - Unpredictable Rainfall Patterns
• (45:07) - Flooding and Its Impact
• (47:53) - Transition to Sheep Farming
• (53:17) - High-Density Grazing Techniques
• (01:00:53) - Challenges and Innovations in Electric Fencing
• (01:06:43) - Favorite Resources and Tools
• (01:13:35) - Final Thoughts and Famous Four Questions

Aaron and Stephanie Moody are the passionate and dedicated couple behind Moody Family Farm in Bernardston, Massachusetts. Both working as full-time special education teachers, they have embarked on a fulfilling journey into agriculture, combining Aaron’s nostalgic ties to farming from his childhood and Stephanie’s newfound enthusiasm for New England farm life. Their venture, which began in 2014 with grazing cattle, has blossomed into a commitment to sustainable farming practices and community engagement, all while raising their two boys in an environment enriched by the values of hard work and self-sufficiency.

Topics covered in the podcast episode include:

• The Moody family's transition from city life to country farming.
• Challenges and successes in starting a farm on a budget.
• Transitioning to regenerative farming practices.
• Experiences with rotational grazing and meat processing.
• Opening a farm store and community engagement.
• Diverse livestock farming and the importance of USDA inspections.
• Expanding the livestock herd and exploring silvopasturing.
• Inspirations from resources like "Salad Bar Beef" by Joel Salatin.
• The balance of managing teaching careers with farm responsibilities.
• Lessons learned and aspirations for sustainable farming.

Listeners should tune into this episode to gain a heartfelt and insightful look into the world of small-scale, sustainable farming. The Moodys' journey offers practical wisdom and inspiration for aspiring farmers and those interested in agriculture. Through candid discussions on their successes and missteps, listeners can learn valuable lessons about community support, resource management, and the rewarding challenges of farming. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about self-sufficiency and regenerative agriculture, as it provides both a realistic portrayal and a hopeful vision of farming life.

Links Mentioned in the Episode
Moody Family Farm on Instagram

Visit our Sponsors:
Noble Research Institute

GBT Angus
Online Bull Auction

Grazing Grass Links
New Listener Resource Guide

Provide feedback for the podcast
Website
Insiders
Resources (Coming Soon)
Community (on Facebook)
Check out the Apiary Chronicles Podcast

Original Music by Louis Palfrey

Chapters

• (00:00) - Introduction to Moody Family Farm
• (00:34) - Fast Five Questions
• (01:14) - Grazing Grass Podcast Overview
• (01:54) - Noble Grazing Essentials Event
• (02:42) - Farm Updates and Tips
• (04:17) - Aaron and Stephanie's Farming Journey
• (04:54) - Backgrounds and Early Influences
• (06:04) - First Steps into Farming
• (07:16) - Teaching Careers and Farming
• (08:00) - Expanding the Farm
• (10:33) - Challenges and Learning Experiences
• (14:24) - Regenerative Practices and Community Support
• (26:29) - Marketing and Processing Challenges
• (27:08) - Future Plans and Family Involvement
• (30:30) - USDA Loan and Moving Challenges
• (31:59) - Winter Farming and Historical Insights
• (37:26) - Sweater Weather and Historic Homes
• (37:45) - Functional Traits for Your Cow Herd
• (38:50) - Renovating Abandoned Pastures
• (40:08) - Challenges and Successes in Pasture Restoration
• (43:40) - Expanding the Herd and Exploring New Species
• (47:22) - Building Community and Relationships
• (54:09) - Famous Four Questions
• (01:08:50) - Final Thoughts and Farewell