Cattle Connect

New positions and new priorities take a foothold at the Alabama Cattlemen's Association as a season of change invites staff transitions and new hires! Host Kayla Greer sits down with ACA Executive Vice President Erin Beasley to talk about those changes and the inspiration behind them. Following, the newest face at the ACA, Michael Smith, introduces himself and shares his vision for his role at Manager of Industry Outreach.

“I believe in the future of agriculture.” These first seven words of the FFA creed only begin to tell the story of The National FFA Organization and the effect it has on today's youth and tomorrow's leaders. Hot on the heels of Alabama's 97th Annual FFA State Convention, Josie sat down with Mackenzie Smith - 2024-2025 Alabama FFA State Treasurer, AJCA member and Marshall County cattle showman - to discuss this great organization and the role it plays in strengthening Alabama's beef industry. 

Grassroots advocates are the lifeblood of the ACA, and our Connect to the Cattlemen series is here to highlight their efforts! From steak sandwich sales, to beef donations and youth events, to scholarship presentations, county Cattlemen's chapters often get creative on how to engage in the local community. In Franklin County, this means taking to social media video production, highlighting those in the community and tying it all back to the beef business! Listen in as host Kayla Greer chats with Caleb Beason of the Franklin County Cattlemen's Association, and check out their Facebook page to watch their videos today!

In a world where consumers are constantly bombarded with ads, influencer reviews, sales pitches and new products, building a brand that is easily recognizable can be key to a sustainable beef operation. Listen as host Josie Jones sits down with Kenny Woodham, owner of Sowega Meat Company, to discuss how consistency and quality have been integral in growing the direct-to-consumer facility. 

The New World Screwworm (NWS)— a parasitic pest eradicated from the U.S. in 1966— is climbing north from Panama, and getting a little too close to the homeland. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins closed the U.S./Mexican border for live imports of cattle, equine and bison for a second time this year as eradication protocols ramp up in Central and South America. Alabama State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier with the Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries joined host Erin Beasley in studio to discuss this pest and the measures it will take to keep it out of the U.S. cowherd.

As of Wednesday, May 14, the final gavel of the 2025 Alabama Legislative Session has fallen! ACA lobbyists Erin Beasley and Kayla Greer gathered in the Cattle Connect studio after the motion to adjourn “Sine Die,” and the duo debriefed some of the milestone moments from the past 105 days in the State House.

Alabama's agricultural and forestry industries significantly contribute to the state's economy. The Agriculture & Forestry Grow Alabama: An Economic Contribution Study revealed that in 2022, the economic contribution of Alabama's food, fiber, forestry, and green industries was $77.3 billion and 273,271 jobs, which accounted for 10% of Alabama's workforce.  Learn more about how this study came to light and about the role of the Alabama Agribusiness Council (AAC) as host Kayla Greer chats in studio with AAC Executive Director Grace Ellis. Find more facts and figures at www.GrowAlabama.org. 

Building a high-quality, healthy cattle herd depends on producers utilizing quality genetics and good herd management practices on their farms. Listen as host Reid McGuire sits down with Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine Associate Clinical Professor of Theriogeneology Dr. Chance Armstrong to discuss the important role bull development plays in the longevity of Alabama operations, and some additional things producers need to keep in mind as they are selecting and caring for their breeding stock.

What do Facebook and rural Alabama communities have in common? The ability to support growth of local small businesses from the ground up! For this week's episode of the Marketing Your Farm series, Join host Josie as she visits with cattle producer, business owner and social media influencer Karah Skinner from Rock House Farms. Learn how the Skinner family has taken the first-generation farm they started ten years ago as a way to feed their family locally produced food and grown that into a steady meat sales and social media affiliate income. 

The volunteer leaders of the Alabama Cattlemen's Association are vital to the success and leadership of our trade organization. On this episode, Josie will sit down with 2025 ACA Vice President Randy Moody from Madison County. Learn more about his background, family and the priorities and goals has has for the association during his tenure as a state officer. 

Tomorrow's beef industry relies on today's research, and heifer fertility quickly rises to the top of the list when producers start discussing crucial improvements left to be made.    Join Reid McGuire and Auburn University Department of Animal Sciences Associate Professor and Graduate Program Officer Dr. Paul Dyce as they discuss a current study funded by the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program to determine better methods of predicting heifer fertility from specific genetic markers; the future in in vitro fertilization in livestock; and an update on the Auburn University Department of Animal Sciences Graduate Program. 

In a time when people are very invested in knowing the story behind the food on their plate, those involved in agriculture have an excellent opportunity to educate their local communities while expanding income streams through niche, direct-to-consumer markets. But kicking off steak sales on the cattle operation takes more than beef in the freezer. Join Josie Jones and Anna Marie Herrington, owner of The Traveling Farmacy, as they discuss one tool many producers are using to find success in the freezer beef game - websites.  

With springtime showers comes… Pasture weeds??? Tune in as Reid McGuire and Dr. David Russell discuss ways producers can better manage the forage component of beef production. Listen as they cover previous research done across the state (thanks to the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program!), the most common weeds found in Alabama pastures and how cattlemen can take a proactive, sustainable approach to maintaining high-quality grazing and hay land. 

With 16 days of the 2025 Alabama Legislative Session already on the books, only 14 remain to conduct the work of the State. Listen in as co-hosts Kayla Greer and Erin Beasley chat about bills of interest this session, their progression in the political process, and what the duo expects to see in the final 14 days of session.

Springtime is just around the corner! With the longer days and warmer weather comes many outdoor education events. Listen as Reid and Josie offer a spring update on 2025 Alabama Beef Checkoff Program activities and offer some insight into how producers can get involved. 

Estate planning— it's not a favorite topic, but it's one that is vitally important to the preservation of the family farm. While at #BamaBeefMeet, Cattle Connect host Kayla Greer spoke with Kacy Atkinson. Kacy is a Wyoming rancher and estate planning advocate who brought her knowledge and unique experience to our General Session panel titled "Planning for the Future of the Farm." Tune in as Kayla and Kacy tackle one of the hardest parts of estate planning— starting the conversation.

National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) CEO Colin Woodall headlined the Cattlemen's Luncheon at the 82nd Annual ACA Convention & Trade Show in Birmingham. His charisma and in-depth knowledge of the American beef industry— as well as his insightful knowledge of D.C. politics—resonated with all who listened. Host Kayla Greer sat down with Colin after the luncheon to re-visit his discussion and capture his update from the countryside of the American beef industry.

The 2025 Alabama Legislative Session has kicked off in downtown Montgomery, bringing with it a busy 105 days for both lawmakers and lobbyists. House Rules Chairman, Rep. Joe Lovvorn of Alabama House District 79 joins co-hosts Kayla Greer and Erin Beasley in the Cattle Connect studio to share about his agricultural background, his role as Rules Chairman, and what we can expect to see this session, from his unique perspective! Then, Erin and Kayla take a few moments to discuss the ACA's legislative priorities that have them busy at the State House this session.

Supporting Alabama's youth in agriculture— that's the goal of the Southeastern Livestock Exposition (SLE), and your ticket to the show contributes to that mission. SLE President Linwood McClain joins host Kayla Greer in studio to reflect on the SLE's history, its unique mission and share details about this year's event. Learn more at www.SLERodeo.com. 

Health insurance is one of those things "you'd rather have and not need, than to need it and not have it." But unfortunately, affordable health coverage is a tough commodity to come by for many of Alabama's farmers and small business owners. That is why our friends at the Alabama Farmers Federation are working toward legislation that will allow them to offer affordable health plans to the hardworking men, women and children who produce our nation's food, fuel and fiber. Learn more at www.AHealthyOption.org. 

“There will always be a need for land because it's under everything.” Host Erin Beasley sits down with longtime land broker and host of The Land Show, Jonathan Goode, to chat about considerations and preparations to have on hand when it comes time to buy or sell your land. 

Tune in as host Kayla Greer sits down in studio with Shelby Easterling, president of the Alabama CattleWomen's Association (ACWA). Kayla and Shelby chat about the ACWA's mission, highlight a few of Shelby's goals as president and— in true Cattle Connect fashion— shed a little light on the history of the organization. Learn more or join the ACWA at www.AlabamaCattleWomen.com. 

What began as feedback from membership meetings held in 2024 evolved into five educational opportunities at the 82nd Annual ACA Convention & Trade Show. From estate planning to life-saving tips in an emergency, and calf health to diversifying your farm's financials, the 2025 convention will feature a variety of educational sessions you don't want to miss. Learn more and register today at BamaBeef.org/Events. 

In celebration of the ACA's 81st birthday, hosts Kayla Greer and Erin Beasley take to the history book to chat about some of the association's milestone moments and their little-known details!     

As we prepare to send off 2024, tune in as hosts Kayla Greer, Erin Beasley, Josie Jones and Reid McGuire sit down for a month-by-month review of programs, key moments and successes for the Alabama Cattlemen's Association and the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program. Be sure to tune into Season 2 of the Cattle Connect podcast, kicking off January 3, 2025. Happy New Year! 

From the Young Cattlemen's Leadership Program to BEEF 101 and digital advertising to BQA in classrooms, the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program covers a lot of ground. This week's segment, the Beef Checkoff team highlights some 2024 wins and what to look forward to in 2025! BONUS FOOTAGE: Listen to the end for a little banter about the staff's favorite beef cuts for the holidays!

From Millennials to Gen X'ers and Gen Z'ers to Boomers, cross-generational leadership and management can create questions...for both leaders and followers! Host Erin Beasley sits down with Auburn University Professor of Practice in Agricultural Communication and Leadership Dr. Adam Cletzer to unpack generational differences, tips for leadership development and even a few resource recommendations for those who are trying to effectively lead in their civic groups and on the farm. 

Sweet Grown Alabama has become a recognizable brand for Alabama agriculture. In this episode, host Josie Jones sits down with Sweet Grown Alabama Assistant Director Aisling Walding to learn about the launch of this program, the purpose it serves and how producers can take advantage of the resources it has to offer. 

The 2025 ACA Convention & Trade Show will be in Birmingham February 21-22. Co-hosts Kayla Greer and Erin Beasley chat about what you can expect at the 82nd annual event, including what's new! Learn more and register today at www.BamaBeef.org/Events. 

Give the gift of membership this holiday season! Whether it's a friend, family member, neighbor— or someone who's just plain hard to shop for— we've got just what you need! Our 2024 Christmas From Cowboys membership drive offers a one-year membership with all the benefits of being a member of the Alabama Cattlemen's Association, wrapped up in a western-themed Christmas card. ACA President Dr. Terry Slaten joins Kayla Greer in studio to talk about the program, the inspiration behind it and all about our member benefits. Tune in and visit BamaBeef.org/Christmas to gift a membership this holiday season. 

Did you know you could qualify for up to a 75% rebate on herd health practices like corrals, feed bunks with heavy use pads and squeeze chutes? Thanks to Alabama Soil and Water Conservation Committee's Conservation Incentive Program (CIP), you can! ASWCC Assistant Executive Director Ashley Henderson joins host Kayla Greer in the Cattle Connect studio to dive into those programs. Find your local office and apply for CIP practices today by visiting AlabamaSoilAndWater.gov. 

Dr. Kimberly Mullenix recently assumed the role as the Head of the Department of Animal Sciences at Auburn University behind the successful tenure of Dr. Wayne Greene. A former Beef Cattle Extension Specialist, Dr. Mullenix joins host Erin Beasley in studio to introduce herself and to share her vision for the department moving forward. 

Advertising beef to Alabama's consumers requires knowledge of market trends and buying power, and thanks to a recent trip out to Denver, ACA Director of Consumer Outreach Josie Jones is up for the challenge. Tune in to learn more about the many mechanics behind encouraging consumers to choose beef. #BeefItsWhatsForDinner

A new addition to Beef Month in recent years is a contest titled "Cattlemen of Beef Month." This friendly competition between county Cattlemen's Associations awards points based on beef promotional efforts hosted during October Beef Month, and it ends with one county earning the crown! In October 2023, the Elmore County Cattlemen's Association went above and beyond to design unique ways to promote beef and the western lifestyle across their home turf. Josie Jones sits down in studio with Chet and Carol Matthews, two of the masterminds behind the promotional efforts, to reflect on how Elmore County's cattlemen activated in order to earn the title "2023 Cattlemen of Beef Month."

This year, we are proud to celebrate 60 years of October Beef Month in Alabama! In honor of this milestone, we looked back over the past decade of Bama's Best Beef, Bama's Best Burger and Alabama's Best Steak contest winners and finalists to design a roadmap we've titled "60 Savory Stops." Listen in as co-hosts Kayla Greer and Josie Jones talk about how this campaign came to life, and join in the celebration by visiting www.BamaBeef.org/60.

2024 marks 60 years since the very first October Beef Month in Alabama. To discuss the past six decades of beef promotion across the state, host Josie Jones is joined by previous Alabama Cattlemen's Association employee Ed Whatley. Ed worked as both the ACA Field Representative and the Director of Retail and Foodservice Promotion during his many years at the association, and played a key role in getting beef “on the map” in Alabama. Listen to hear some of his favorite stories from his time in the industry and to learn more about how Alabama Beef Checkoff programming has both adapted and stayed true to its roots through the years. 

Regardless of your preferred breed, industry segment, or stance on grass-fed vs. grain-fed, we can all agree on one thing- beef production is important. Join host Josie Jones as she discusses the Three P's of Beef Production with Mason Hills Farm owner Joseph Mason. 

In honor of National Farm Safety Week, host Josie Jones sits down with Jackson Chance, RN, PM, to discuss farm-related accidents and safety. Currently an assistant fire chief, EMS director, and flight nurse covering rural Alabama communities, Jackson has participated first-hand in many of the facets of Alabama's emergency medical response and care systems during his 10 years of experience. Listen in to learn what Alabama producers need to consider regarding agriculture occupational hazards as well as a few easy proactive steps they can take to be prepared to care for those they love most during a crisis.

"The goal is not to get a bred heifer. It's to get a three-year-old pair." Listen in as host Reid McGuire talks with Animal Sciences & Forages Extension Specialist Kent Stanford about retaining and raising the right heifers for your herd. 

The Alabama Cattlemen's Association website houses 58 pages of content, all linked to our association! While we won't dig into all 58 pages, join hosts Erin Beasley and Kayla Greer as they discuss some of the highlights, hidden gems and important resources housed on www.BamaBeef.org. 

In June, Bullock County Cattleman and YCLP Council Chairman Daniel Adams took to a 10-day trip across the country to explore the American beef industry. As the Alabama representative on the National Cattlemen's Beef Association's Young Cattlemen's Conference, Daniel experienced the beef industry from pasture to plate along with 67 other young producers from across the nation. Listen in as host Kayla Greer rehashes his journey throughout the conference and how his experience compares to Alabama's Young Cattlemen's Leadership Program (YCLP). And be sure to listen to the end for a extra treat!  

Are you interested in getting your junior cattlemen involved in livestock judging...but maybe have a few questions? Look no further! Host Reid McGuire welcomes AU Livestock Judging Coach Jesse Henson to the studio to take a deeper look into competitive livestock judging, the variety of skills it instills in its competitors, and its practical applications to everyday management decisions on the farm. 

Bull sale season is on the horizon! Alabama Beef Cattle Improvement Association (BCIA) Director Michelle Elmore joined ACA's Reid McGuire in the Cattle Connect studio to discuss ways to make sense of sale catalogs and to share points to consider when making a decision on a herd bull for your operation. Tune in to learn more, and explore upcoming sales and educational opportunities online at BamaBeef.org/Events.

It's time to head back to school and there are so many things to prepare. Shopping carts in stores across Alabama are filled with school supplies, families are visiting schools to meet the new teachers, and educators are adding the final touches to their lesson plans. But success in the classroom relies on far more than great crayons and new shoes. Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries Agriculture Development Specialist Beth Spratt joins Josie Jones today to discuss the importance of nutritious school meals for student success. Learn about how the Alabama Farm to School Program works to increase consumption of whole, local products in cafeterias across the state and educate students about food production.

The time of year has come when calves are weaned and truckloads are formed to market. It's board sale season in Alabama, and joining host Reid McGuire in the Cattle Connect studio is Ken Kelley, a farm and agribusiness regional Extension agent who hails from the southwest corner of the state. Tune in as Reid and Ken talk about what a board sale is, tips to increase profitability on your next calf crop, and managing risks with Livestock Risk Protection (LRP).

The Producer Profitability Initiative has been the featured event held in conjunction with the 2024 Regional Cattlemen's Cookouts. This grassroots movement put into motion by the Livestock Marketing Association (LMA) was created by cattle ranchers who have a vision to create a sustainable future for the American livestock industry. Through listening sessions, cattlemen of all ages, management styles, and operations sizes— and supporters of the livestock industry— share ideas, concerns and opinions to continue working together toward a sustainable livestock industry and a secure domestic food supply. LMA Region Executive Officer Craig Taylor joins ACA's Kayla Greer in studio to share more about the initiative and the role of the LMA.

Today's average consumer is very aware of their food choices. Common headlines include GMOs, sustainability, local products, pesticides, and the list goes on. This overwhelming interest gives those involved in agriculture the opportunity to develop a local customer base and grow strong relationships with the consumers in their communities, and beef producers are no exception. Join Josie as she visits with Kathleen Evans from CK Cattle as they discuss the Hope Hull operation's booming beef business - developed during the Covid-19 outbreaks in 2020 - and the things other producers need to know before jumping into direct sales to consumers. 

Join Josie and Reid as they visit with 2023-2024 Alabama Junior Cattlemen's Association President Alyvia Watson! Hear the Mobile County native discuss her agriculture background, future plans and favorite parts of being involved in the AJCA. 

The Alabama Junior Cattlemen's Association 18th Annual Round-Up is coming to town July 18-21! Reid and Josie are here to give you all the details about each contest and the role they play in developing career-based skills among our junior cattlemen. Tune in to find out all the details to attend and hear how our producers are encouraged to get involved in this fantastic summer event. 

The volunteer officers of the Alabama Cattlemen's Association are vital to the success and leadership of our trade organization. On this episode, we'll introduce you to ACA Vice President Wyatt Sasser, who hails from the southern part of the state in Covington County. Tune in to learn about Wyatt's ag and construction background, his family, and his perspective as an ACA officer.

What do rental cars, hotels and steak restaurants all have in common? A great discount, IF you are a member of the Alabama Cattlemen's Association! This week, Erin and Josie are chatting about the ins and outs of ACA membership, including the story behind the coveted red coats, how the membership year works, when the important deadlines are, and the great recruitment prizes available to both the counties and individual cattlemen. You will also learn more about the importance of membership in this organization and find out which Alabama county associations have already gone over the top!