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Did you know that The United Nations has designated 2026 as the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY 2026), the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, and the International Year of the Woman Farmer? Join Food Sleuth Radio host and Registered Dietitian, Melinda Hemmelgarn for her conversation with Seth Itzkan, environmental futurist and cofounder of Soil4Climate, an international nongovernmental organization advancing the science, policy and practice of soil restoration through regenerative grazing and agroforestry practices as a climate solution. Itzkan discusses the role ruminants play in agriculture, soil restoration and sustainability. For state policies on soil health, see: https://nerdsforearth.com/state-healthy-soils-policy/ ; and for the Friends of the Earth report on the misconceptions on No-Till Farming, see: https://foe.org/resources/rethinking-no-till/Related Websites: www.soil4climate.org
In this episode, Rebekah Pierce, author of Agri-Energy: Growing Power, Growing Food, joins Carolyn Nation to share her hands-on experience with agrovoltaics—the practice of grazing livestock under solar panels. Rebekah currently manages seven solar grazing sites across four counties in upstate New York, transforming underutilized land into productive agricultural systems while providing vegetation management for solar companies. The conversation explores how solar grazing works in practice, how farmers can find and secure contracts, and why sheep have become the go-to species for these systems. Rebekah also addresses common concerns around farmland loss, food safety, and soil health, offering a grounded, farmer-first perspective on integrating renewable energy with agriculture.
On this episode of Vitality Radio, Jared shares a simple quarterly framework to help you actually follow through on health goals: Start, Stop, Keep. Adapted from a powerful business coaching tool, it becomes a practical way to evaluate what's working, what's draining you, and what single change could move you forward right now. Jared ties it to the “1% better” mindset from Atomic Habits—small daily choices that compound into massive long-term results—and gives real-world examples like setting a consistent bedtime, intermittent fasting, and quitting grazing. You'll also hear actionable “starts” (like walking after meals and tracking food/supplement effects) and “stops” (like late-day caffeine and doom scrolling). No hype—just a clean system you can repeat every quarter, month, or whatever works for you.Products:LiverVitatlityEndoCleanseVital 5:Ultimate Vitality MultiMagnesium BisglycinateOmega-3 + AntioxidantsPrecision Probiotic Vital SporesAssimil-8 Digestive EnzymesBack on TractAdditional Information:Atomic Habits by James Clear - bookThe Compound Effect by Darren Hardy - book#579: Fueling Your Day Right: How to Eat for Energy, Focus, and Weight Loss with Nate Palmer#604: Emotional Vitality: How to Break Out of Overwhelm and the Freeze Response#242: The Vital Five How To: Your User's Guide to Filling the Gaps in Your DietVisit the podcast website here: VitalityRadio.comYou can follow @vitalitynutritionbountiful and @vitalityradio on Instagram, or Vitality Radio and Vitality Nutrition on Facebook. Join us also in the Vitality Radio Podcast Listener Community on Facebook. Shop the products that Jared mentions at vitalitynutrition.com. Let us know your thoughts about this episode using the hashtag #vitalityradio and please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. Thank you!Just a reminder that this podcast is for educational purposes only. The FDA has not evaluated the podcast. The information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The advice given is not intended to replace the advice of your medical professional.
The Governor’s office has been opposed to the controversial grazing permits and variances awarded the “non-profit” American Prairie, which has purchased roughly $100 million in Montana Ranch land since 2012. Click on the podcast as Governor Gianforte discusses why the […] The post Gov. Gianforte On Grazing Rights, Economy, Taxes, Rail Merger first appeared on Voices of Montana.
Montana Farm Bureau's Executive Vice President Scott Kulbeck breaks down a major win for Montana ranchers. The Bureau of Land Management has reversed its 2022 decision that allowed the American Prairie Reserve to graze bison on federal allotments specifically designated […] The post MFBF Responds to Favorable Grazing Rights Ruling first appeared on Voices of Montana.
The Bureau of Land Management announced its decision Friday to cancel key bison grazing permits for American Prairie, which is working to build a 3 million-acre nature reserve in northeastern Montana.
It's The Ranch It Up Radio Show! Join Jeff Tigger Erhardt, Rebecca Wanner AKA BEC and their crew as they hear how to create income potential by custom grazing versus grazing your own yearlings. Plus, detailed market recaps, news you need to hear, and lots more all wrapped into this brand new episode of The Ranch It Up Radio Show. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcasting app or on the Ranch It Up Radio Show YouTube Channel. Custom Grazing Cattle vs. Owning Stocker Cattle: Which Is The Better Ranching Strategy? Custom grazing cattle for others and owning stocker cattle are two popular beef production models, each offering distinct financial, operational, and risk profiles. Understanding the differences helps ranchers, landowners, and regenerative agriculture operators choose the most profitable and sustainable system for their operation. What Is Custom Grazing Cattle? Custom grazing (also called contract grazing) is when a landowner or operator is paid a per-head or per-pound daily rate to manage cattle owned by someone else. The grazier provides pasture, water, fencing, and animal care—while the cattle owner retains market risk. Key benefits of custom grazing cattle: Low financial risk: No capital tied up in livestock ownership Predictable cash flow: Guaranteed grazing income regardless of cattle markets Reduced market exposure: No price volatility or sale timing risk Ideal for landowners: Monetize forage without purchasing cattle Scalable & flexible: Adjust stocking rates annually Custom grazing is especially attractive in regions with abundant grass, strong fencing infrastructure, and rising interest in regenerative grazing systems. What Are Stocker Cattle? Stocker cattle are owned livestock purchased after weaning and grown on forage before being sold to feedlots or backgrounding operations. Profit depends on weight gain, purchase price, sale price, and overall market conditions. Advantages of owning stocker cattle: Higher profit potential: Capture upside when cattle markets rise Asset ownership: Cattle can be leveraged or retained Operational control: Full decision-making authority Value-added opportunities: Genetics, health programs, and marketing However, owning stocker cattle also introduces significant financial and operational risk. Custom Grazing vs. Stocker Cattle: Key Differences Factor Custom Grazing Owning Stocker Cattle Capital Required Low High Market Risk Minimal High Cash Flow Stable & predictable Variable Profit Ceiling Capped Higher upside Labor & Management Moderate High Exposure to Loss Low High Which Option Is More Profitable? Profitability depends on risk tolerance, capital availability, and land goals. Custom grazing is often more profitable on a risk-adjusted basis, especially during volatile cattle markets or drought cycles. Stocker ownership can outperform in strong markets but carries downside risk during price declines or poor forage years. Many successful operators use a hybrid model, combining custom grazing contracts for baseline income with a smaller stocker herd to capture upside gains. Best Choice for Your Operation Choose custom grazing cattle for others if you want: Stable income Low financial exposure Forage-focused land management Regenerative or conservation grazing goals Choose owning stocker cattle if you want: Higher earning potential Willingness to manage market risk Access to operating capital Active livestock trading strategy Featured Experts in the Cattle Industry Jayce Doan – Black Leg Ranch https://www.blacklegranch.com/ Follow on Facebook: @BlackLegRanch Kirk Donsbach – Financial Analyst at StoneX https://www.stonex.com/ Follow on Facebook: @StoneXGroupInc Shaye Wanner – Host of Casual Cattle Conversation https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ Follow on Facebook: @cattleconvos Contact Us with Questions or Concerns Have questions or feedback? Feel free to reach out via: Call/Text: 707-RANCH20 or 707-726-2420 Email: RanchItUpShow@gmail.com Follow us: Facebook/Instagram: @RanchItUpShow YouTube: Subscribe to Ranch It Up Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/RanchItUp Catch all episodes of the Ranch It Up Podcast available on all major podcasting platforms. Discover the Heart of Rural America with Tigger & BEC Ranching, farming, and the Western lifestyle are at the heart of everything we do. Tigger & BEC bring you exclusive insights from the world of working ranches, cattle farming, and sustainable beef production. Learn more about Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca Wanner (BEC) and their mission to promote the Western way of life at Tigger and BEC. https://tiggerandbec.com/ Industry References, Partners and Resources For additional information on industry trends, products, and services, check out these trusted resources: Allied Genetic Resources: https://alliedgeneticresources.com/ American Gelbvieh Association: https://gelbvieh.org/ Axiota Animal Health: https://axiota.com/multimin-campaign-landing-page/ Imogene Ingredients: https://www.imogeneingredients.com/ Jorgensen Land & Cattle: https://jorgensenfarms.com/#/?ranchchannel=view Medora Boot: https://medoraboot.com/ RFD-TV: https://www.rfdtv.com/ Rural Radio Network: https://www.ruralradio147.com/ Superior Livestock Auctions: https://superiorlivestock.com/ Transova Genetics: https://transova.com/ Westway Feed Products: https://westwayfeed.com/ Wrangler: https://www.wrangler.com/ Wulf Cattle: https://www.wulfcattle.com/
Hayden and Taylor Sievers of Sievers Blumen Farm in the Brussels, Illinois area share how their farm has evolved from a cut-flower business into a growing grazing-focused cattle operation, alongside grain and hogs, while keeping an eye on family, profitability, and building a system that works on limited acres.In This Episode, We Explore:How Sievers Blumen Farm got its name and the cut-flower beginnings behind the brandFarming in Calhoun County between the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers, and what that landscape means for grazingConverting a heavily tilled, flood-prone 80 acres into pasture over time while still cash cropping part of itChallenges of establishing pasture on heavy “black stick” clay and lessons learned with broadcast seeding and needing timely rainUsing wheat followed by cover crops and pasture as a transition plan away from cash croppingInfrastructure choices including high-tensile perimeter fence, step-ins, reels, and thoughts on central alley layoutsMoving from Dexters to South Pole-influenced cattle and what they noticed with fly pressure, forage efficiency, and easy-keeping traitsUsing cow-calf as a base herd while considering stockers and sell-buy marketing to capture excess forageTakeaways from stockmanship training, including receiving calves and getting them grazing quickly by focusing on mental and emotional stateRaising meat chickens (including Red Rangers) and layers, plus building and using a chickshaw-style coopTaylor's path into indie publishing, what she writes, and the discipline of finishing books while raising a familyWhy This Episode MattersIf you are trying to make grazing work on limited acres or on land that is less-than-ideal, this conversation is a practical look at how a young family is building infrastructure, improving soil over time, selecting cattle that fit their system, and staying focused on profitability and quality of life instead of chasing too many enterprises at once.Resources MentionedJoel Salatin (Joe Rogan Podcast)Greg Judy (grazing and fencing approach)Jim Elizondo and total grazing conceptsHand 'n Hand sell-buy marketing class (Tina and Richard)Stockman Grass FarmerWorking Cows podcastRanching Returns podcast (formerly Herd Quitter podcast)Bud Williams stockmanship (referenced through stockmanship training)Dirt to SoilBraiding SweetgrassFor the Love of SoilThe Creative Penn podcast (Joanna Penn)Wish I'd Known Then podcastThe Two Authors podcastJustin Rhodes Chickshaw (mobile coop design)O'Brien step-in postsTaragate reelsMeyer HatcheryMcMurray HatcheryAugust Horstmann's Ranch (Missouri)Find Out MoreWebsite | https://sieversblumenfarm.comInstagram | https://instagram.com/sieversblumenfarmFacebook | https://facebook.com/sieversblumenfarmYouTube | https://youtube.com/@sieversblumenfarmHere is a discount code for our farm shop (https://sieversblumenfarm.com/shop) that listeners can use for 10% off. The code expires in July. GRAZINGGRASS26 Looking for grass-based breeders? Explore the Grass Based Genetics directory.Upcoming Grazing EventsVisit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmond AgricultureGrazing Grass LinksWebsiteCommunity (on Facebook)Original Music by Louis Palfrey
It's The Ranch It Up Radio Show! Join Jeff Tigger Erhardt, Rebecca Wanner AKA BEC and their crew as they hear how winter grazing could save big when it comes to the feed bill. Plus, detailed market recaps, news you need to hear, upcoming bull sales and lots more all wrapped into this brand new episode of The Ranch It Up Radio Show. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcasting app or on the Ranch It Up Radio Show YouTube Channel. Cut Winter Feed Costs: Winter Grazing With Jayce Doan Of Black Leg Ranch Winter grazing cattle offers significant benefits for livestock producers looking to reduce feed costs, improve soil health, and increase pasture efficiency. By allowing cattle to graze stockpiled forage or cover crops during winter months, producers can lower reliance on stored hay, reduce labor and equipment expenses, and enhance nutrient cycling through natural manure distribution. Winter grazing also supports healthier soils by improving organic matter, reducing erosion, and promoting stronger forage regrowth in spring—making it a sustainable, cost-effective cattle management strategy with long-term productivity gains. Jayce Doan Of The Black Leg Ranch Utilized Winter Grazing & Other Regenerative Practices Jayce Doan works alongside his parents, brothers, and wife to operate a diverse regenerative agriculture operation at Black Leg Ranch near McKenzie, North Dakota. The family raises cattle and bison, while also managing cover crops and additional crop enterprises, all guided by holistic and regenerative land-management principles. Jayce earned a degree in Animal Science from Montana State University in 2016 before returning home to continue the legacy of Black Leg Ranch, which was founded in 1882 by his great-great-grandfather. Today, Jayce represents the next generation of ranchers committed to strengthening both the land and the rural community. The ranch supports a wide range of integrated enterprises, including cow-calf and yearling cattle operations, custom grazing, bison production, and cover crop systems. In addition, the family operates Rolling Plains Adventures, a hunting outfitting business; Black Leg Events, an agri-tourism venue; Black Leg Brewery; and Black Leg Meats, which offers grass-finished beef and bison certified through the Audubon Conservation Bird Friendly Program. Jayce, along with his father and two brothers, has pursued extensive education in holistic management, participating in training and workshops that shape decision-making across every enterprise. These principles are applied to improve soil health, increase biodiversity, and enhance long-term profitability while restoring ecosystem function. Passionate about regenerative agriculture, Jayce is dedicated to rebuilding natural resources, capturing and storing carbon, supporting wildlife habitat, and producing nutrient-dense, healthy food for consumers. He is especially focused on sharing a young producer's perspective, helping others who are beginning their journey in holistic management and regenerative ranching. Tyson Reaches Multi-Million-Dollar Deal With Direct Beef Buyers Tyson Foods has agreed to pay $82.5 million to resolve a proposed class-action lawsuit alleging the company conspired to inflate U.S. beef prices by intentionally restricting supply. The settlement was disclosed Wednesday in a filing with the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, marking a significant development in ongoing litigation targeting major beef producers. The lawsuit was brought on behalf of grocery stores, food distributors, and other direct purchasers of beef products, who claimed Tyson Foods and other large meatpacking companies coordinated production cuts to drive up prices. According to the plaintiffs, the alleged conspiracy affected boxed beef and retail-ready beef cuts sold between 2015 and 2022, a period marked by rising beef prices across the supply chain. Attorneys representing the plaintiffs stated they are currently finalizing the settlement agreement and expect to submit it to the court for approval. If approved, the settlement would compensate businesses that purchased beef directly from Tyson during the alleged price-fixing period, while Tyson Foods continues to deny wrongdoing. Reference: https://meatingplace.com/tyson-reaches-multi-million-dollar-deal-with-direct-beef-buyers/?utm_source=omeda&utm_medium=email&utm_cid=1103020073&utm_campaign=MTGMCD260104003&utm_date=20260105-0315 Ozark Regional Stock Yard Sets Records Ozarks Regional Stockyard in West Plains, Missouri kicked off 2026 with a historic start, delivering one of the highest-priced cattle sales ever recorded at the barn. The January 2 Special Pre-Vac Sale shattered expectations, setting 28 new all-time price records and establishing unprecedented highs across multiple weight classes. The spotlight was firmly on 5-weight steers, which dominated the sale and rewrote the record books. Eight of the top 10 highest prices in Ozarks Regional history came from this weight class, led by 19 head averaging 521 pounds selling for $515.00 and 10 head at 516 pounds bringing $505.00—marking the first time 5-weight calves have ever surpassed the $500 mark at the barn. 4-weight steers were equally impressive, with top prices reaching $585.00 and $570.00, securing six of the top 10 all-time sales in that category. Momentum carried into the 6-weight class, where 14 head at 603 pounds sold for $450.00 and 25 head at 631 pounds brought $445.00, contributing to seven new record highs. The record-breaking trend continued with 7-weight steers, as 14 head at 700 pounds sold for $404.00, officially crossing the $400 threshold for the first time in barn history. Even 8-weights posted standout results, with 65 head at 809 pounds bringing $369.50, ranking fourth highest all time. From lightweight calves to heavy feeders, the January 2 sale underscored the strength of the cattle market and solidified Ozarks Regional Stockyard's reputation as a leader in high-performing livestock auctions. By any measure, this sale will be remembered as one of the best to ever hit the ring in West Plains. Featured Experts in the Cattle Industry Jayce Doan – Black Leg Ranch https://www.blacklegranch.com/ Follow on Facebook: @BlackLegRanch Kirk Donsbach – Financial Analyst at StoneX https://www.stonex.com/ Follow on Facebook: @StoneXGroupInc Shaye Wanner – Host of Casual Cattle Conversation https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ Follow on Facebook: @cattleconvos Contact Us with Questions or Concerns Have questions or feedback? Feel free to reach out via: Call/Text: 707-RANCH20 or 707-726-2420 Email: RanchItUpShow@gmail.com Follow us: Facebook/Instagram: @RanchItUpShow YouTube: Subscribe to Ranch It Up Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/RanchItUp Catch all episodes of the Ranch It Up Podcast available on all major podcasting platforms. Discover the Heart of Rural America with Tigger & BEC Ranching, farming, and the Western lifestyle are at the heart of everything we do. Tigger & BEC bring you exclusive insights from the world of working ranches, cattle farming, and sustainable beef production. Learn more about Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca Wanner (BEC) and their mission to promote the Western way of life at Tigger and BEC. https://tiggerandbec.com/ Industry References, Partners and Resources For additional information on industry trends, products, and services, check out these trusted resources: Allied Genetic Resources: https://alliedgeneticresources.com/ American Gelbvieh Association: https://gelbvieh.org/ Axiota Animal Health: https://axiota.com/multimin-campaign-landing-page/ Imogene Ingredients: https://www.imogeneingredients.com/ Jorgensen Land & Cattle: https://jorgensenfarms.com/ Medora Boot: https://medoraboot.com/ RFD-TV: https://www.rfdtv.com/ Rural Radio Network: https://www.ruralradio147.com/ Superior Livestock Auctions: https://superiorlivestock.com/ Transova Genetics: https://transova.com/ Westway Feed Products: https://westwayfeed.com/ Wrangler: https://www.wrangler.com/ Wulf Cattle: https://www.wulfcattle.com/
Shawn Freeland has been on quite a journey to get started as a first generation rancher. We discuss the role of grazing and paying attention to soil health in helping that journey succeed. We talk about getting started by buying 10 cows on a whim to pursuing a high input approach to putting his cows to work for him.Sponsors:Rogue Food Conference (Code: Cows30)Take the Survey:Working Cows 2026 Listener SurveyRelevant Links:Dry Creek Ranch
Grazing his flock at solar farms lets him raise sheep, earn a steady income, and keep the family legacy alive. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
In this remastered episode of the Stockman Grassfarmer Podcast, we revisit a foundational session from the Multi-Species Grazing School, led by renowned grazier Greg Judy. This episode is Part 1 of 3 from the first module of the complete Multi-Species Grazing course, and it sets the philosophical and practical groundwork for building resilient, profitable grazing systems through diversity. Greg shares his personal journey from financial struggle to becoming debt-free through custom grazing, leasing land strategically, and embracing practices others were unwilling to try. The conversation dives deep into why single-species systems break down, how plants and animals work together to heal soil, and how livestock can replace machinery for brush, weed, and parasite control. This episode challenges conventional thinking and reframes “problems” like weeds, brush, and invasive species as opportunities—when managed correctly.
Happy New Year! 2026 is breathing down our necks, and we're kicking it off with a fresh lineup of segments usually reserved for Patreon. A dispute for the Honorable Judge Christie, some possible assholes, federal charges in a North Texas case, and more. Grab a plate, it's time for your New Year's Eve Grazing Board! Click here for this week's show notes. Click here to sign up for our Patreon and receive hundreds of hours of bonus content. Please click here to leave a review and tell us what you think of the show.
Zach (first-generation) and Kacie (fifth-generation) Scherler-Abney are ranchers operating Re:Farm and Re:Supply in Cotton and Tillman Counties in southwest Oklahoma, running a cow-calf herd with some stockers while also managing land for others and operating retail stores in Norman, Oklahoma and Wichita Falls, Texas. In This Episode, We Explore: - How a personal health scare led them back to the family place and into raising their own food - Using an autoimmune protocol diet as a catalyst to question food labels and sourcing - Learning regenerative grazing through books, YouTube, and early hands-on trial and error - Grazing in a more brittle, variable rainfall environment in southwest Oklahoma and north Texas - Ultra high-density, non-selective grazing and why recovery time is the key variable for them - What polywire taught them, and why quality of life and labor forced a change - Building water systems with HDPE poly pipe, quick couplers, and central lanes for flexibility - Leasing strategies including Oklahoma state school land (CLO) and BIA tribal land leases - Transitioning to Halter virtual fencing and what changed in daily management and stress - How their cattle buying philosophy shifted to phenotype, productivity, and pounds per acre - Marketing reality checks: balancing direct-to-consumer beef with current sale barn economics - Why they built brick-and-mortar stores and how non-perishables help stabilize cash flow - Community-building through retail and sourcing other local products beyond their own beef Why This Episode Matters This conversation is a practical look at matching grazing goals to real life, especially when labor, family time, leases, and cash flow are all limiting factors. Zach and Kacie share what worked, what wore them out, what they changed, and how they think about staying flexible without abandoning the core principles that keep land and livestock improving. Resources Mentioned - Halter virtual fencing system - Passon quick couplers - Oklahoma Commissioners of the Land Office (CLO) grazing leases - Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) grazing leases Find Out More - Instagram | re:farm - Website | Re:Farm Market - Facebook | Re:Farm Looking for Livestock that thrive on grass? Check out Grass Based GeneticsUpcoming Grazing EventsVisit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmond AgricultureGrazing Grass LinksWebsiteCommunity (on Facebook)Original Music by Louis Palfrey
Ashly Steinke remembers well the first time he saw a bobolink on pastured land that formerly grew corn and soybeans — it was a sign that he was successfully blending beef, birds, and biology. More Information • LSP's Grazing & Soil Health Web Page • Audubon Conservation Ranching Program • The Monitoring Project’s “Tool Box”… Read More → Source
Matt Goble joins the Grazing Grass Podcast to share how he's built a profitable, resilient wool sheep operation in a high-elevation mountain valley using entirely private and marginal land. While working a full-time W-2 job, Matt manages 450 ewes with a strong focus on grazing efficiency, soil health, and thoughtful breeding decisions. His system blends management-intensive grazing, cover crops, and perennial pastures, all adapted to a short growing season and limited irrigation.In this episode, we cover:Grazing irrigated pasture and marginal land in a mountain valleyUsing cover crops to build soil before establishing perennial pastureManaging sheep with daily and multi-day grazing movesLambing systems, jug management, and efficiency at scaleBreeding strategies for maternal traits and terminal lambsUsing ear notching and simple visual systems to reduce decision fatiguePredator pressure and why net fencing matters for sheepBalancing stocking rates during drought yearsAdding chickens and turkeys to improve soil and diversify incomeMatching enterprise scale to land capacity and lifestyle goalsWhy This Episode Matters: This conversation is a clear example of how management, not acres, often determines success. Matt shows how intentional grazing, simple systems, and observation can double productivity without doubling land or inputs. His practical insights into lambing efficiency, breeding decisions, and drought planning offer valuable lessons for anyone managing livestock on limited or challenging ground.Resources Mentioned:The Soil Owner's Manual by John StikaThe Art and Science of Shepherding (Premier 1 Supplies)Field Area Measure (mobile app)Find Out More:Facebook: Dry Bottom FarmsSnow College Agriculture Department (Utah) Looking for Livestock that thrive on grass? Check out Grass Based GeneticsUpcoming Grazing EventsVisit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmond AgricultureGrazing Grass LinksWebsiteCommunity (on Facebook)Original Music by Louis Palfrey
Ted is a first generation farmer who started and built a large scale grazing based dairy that allows him to compete in an industry typically dominated by high capital production focused dairy farms. We discuss his start, the decision to get into this model, using virtual fence in a dairy context and so much more.Resources mentioned:National Grazing Lands CoalitionGraze MagazineRanching for ProfitGrazing Grass PodcastBusiness of Agriculture PodcastCheck out www.pharocattle.com for more information on how to put more fun and profit back into your ranching business! As always, check us out at Ranching Returns Podcast on Facebook and Instagram as well as at www.ranchingreturns.com.For Ranching Returns shirts, hats, and sweatshirts check out https://farmfocused.com/ranching-returns-merch/If you're interested in Farmatan to fight scours in your operation, call Paul Mitchell at 515-745-1639 or check out farmatanusa.com.To learn more about all the classes and services that Noble offers check out www.noble.org
Bovines, bugs, and birds are all making noise in Kevin Mahalko’s dairy grazing paddocks, and that’s music to his ears. More Information • LSP’s Grazing & Soil Health Web Page • NODPA Article on Kevin Mahalko • Ear to the Ground 371: Avian Award • Ear to the Ground 370: Bending the Bird Curve •… Read More → Source
This week on the Working Ranch Radio Show, we kick off a two-part countdown of the Top Shows of 2025, highlighting some of the most meaningful conversations from the past year. In Part 1, we revisit shows ranked number eight through number five — discussions that challenged how we think about grazing management, calving-season decisions, long-term commitment in the cattle business, and what it takes to keep ranching viable amid labor, time, and generational pressures. Links to Shows: #8: Ep 216: Tips for Successful Su Shows mmer Grazing w/ Dr. Allen Williams #7: Ep 230: Rethinking Your Calving Window #6: Ep 231: Markets, Mandates, and Mortality w/ Dr. Nevil Speer #5: Ep 228: Doing More with Less: Precision Ranching with Chip Kemp #workingranchmagazine #ranchlife #ranching #dayweather #weather #agweather #beef #cows #livestock #cattle #Allflex #Neogen #IngentyBeef #NewGeneration #TankToad #WorkingRanchRadio #BeefCattle #CowCalf #CattleManagement #Cattlemen #BeefProduction #RanchProfitability #RanchEconomics #CattleHealth #Ranchers #AgPodcast #RuralAmerica #GrazingManagement #CalvingSeason #ForageManagement #RanchManagement #SuccessionPlanning #DoingMoreWithLess #AgTechnology #PrecisionAg #RanchTech
Dr. Esben Kjaer joins the Blazin' Grazin' hosts to talk fire, forage, and the fine art of managing rangelands for both cattle and wildlife. His work from Kansas to North Dakota reveals how prescribed fire and strategic grazing shape biodiversity - from plant and insect communities to nesting birds. He shares what happens when conservation meets production, and how landowners can use grazing without losing habitat. The conversation also dives into fire aversion, Kentucky bluegrass invasions, and why fire still beats grazing when it comes to restoring native prairies. From the challenges of burning in the frozen north to bringing new fire science to Oklahoma, Dr. Kjaer offers both research and real-world lessons for anyone who loves the land, livestock, and a good burn plan. Resources: - OkState Department of Natural Resource Ecology Management - Esben Kjaer Ph.D.
Small steps come before big ones, but nobody wants to start with small steps, do we? In today's real life session with Phyllis, we'll discuss how breaking down habits into smaller, manageable parts can lead to success and why celebrating even the smallest wins is crucial. Phyllis has been working diligently on her habit of overeating at dinner. We've talked about what it feels like to get satisfied, and we've tried tracking each time she stopped eating her dinner before she had over eaten, but it wasn't getting checked off all that often. (That happens sometimes!)During the call, she reflects on her progress, her upcoming trip to Norway, and navigating her emotional and psychological state without relying on strict diet rules. Get ready for real-life examples of navigating overeating, grazing, and emotional eating while moving towards healthier eating habits.Episode Timeline:00:00 Introduction: Small Steps to Big Changes00:40 Adjusting Habits: One Plate Personal Policy01:15 Celebrating Progress: Acknowledging Wins02:24 Understanding Emotional Eating04:37 Navigating Emotional States05:14 Recovery Process: From Binge to Emotional Eating16:00 Practical Tips: Eating Habits and Tools18:56 Focusing on Emotions in Real Time22:40 Healthy Eating While Traveling24:28 Conclusion: Reflecting on ProgressConnect with Georgie and the Confident Eaters Coaches: WebsiteFacebookInstagramHave you ever thought, "I know what to do, I just need to consistently do it"? Who hasn't? Sometimes we need accountability. Sometimes we need specific strategies, new tools, or a bit of help. If you are want help to become a confident, sensible eater with 1:1 personalized attention, sign up at ConfidentEaters.com.
"It's an honor to sit down with Peter Byck, the visionary filmmaker behind Carbon Cowboys and Roots So Deep (You Can See the Devil Down There).
In Episode 201 of the Grazing Grass Podcast, Cal Hardage sits down with Jacob Morin of Target Angus and Le Paysan Gourmand in Quebec. Jacob shares how a college humanities class unexpectedly set him on a path toward regenerative agriculture and how he and his family transitioned a conventional cow-calf operation into a diversified, grass-based farm. Together, they discuss intentional grazing, winter management in cold climates, infrastructure decisions that make daily moves possible, and how direct-to-consumer beef, market gardening, and livestock diversification work together to support the next generation on the farm.Topics covered in this episode include:Intentional grazing and adaptive decision-makingWinter grazing and bale grazing in cold climatesGrazing infrastructure: fencing, water systems, and daily movesDirect-to-consumer beef sales and pricing challengesDiversification with vegetables, hogs, and value-added productsTransitioning family farms and planning for future generationsLessons learned from trial, error, and staying flexibleWhy you should listen: This episode is packed with real-world insight for producers navigating cooler climates, land constraints, and direct marketing. Jacob's story highlights how thoughtful grazing, diversification, and intentional choices can build resilience—both in the soil and in the family running the operation. If you're balancing tradition with change or looking for practical ideas to strengthen your grazing system, this conversation will resonate.Resources mentioned in the episode:Target AngusLe Paysan GourmandSalad Bar Beef by Joel SalatinPastured Poultry Profits by Joel SalatinThe Bold Return of Giving a Damn by Will Harris Looking for Livestock that thrive on grass? Check out Grass Based GeneticsVisit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmond Agriculture.Grazing Grass LinksNew Listener Resource GuideProvide feedback for the podcastWebsiteInsidersResourcesCommunity (on Facebook)Check out the Apiary Chronicles PodcastOriginal Music by Louis Palfrey
In this live farm tour episode from July this year, I visited Julie Friend and her farm, Wildom Farm, a regenerative livestock farm where cows, sheep, chickens, and pigs are raised together on pasture and in forest systems. The discussion covers daily pasture rotation, animal behavior, predator dynamics, soil health, and how regenerative management affects animal welfare, meat quality, and ecosystem resilience. The farmer walks through real trade-offs, processing challenges, and why transparency and letting people visit farms matters.Key Topics Daily rotational grazing and mobile infrastructureRaising cows, sheep, and chickens together in one systemForest-raised pork, forage diversity, and meat qualityPredator balance, animal behavior, and welfare trade-offsProcessing bottlenecks, frozen meat, and food transparencyWhat You'll Learn in This EpisodeHow cows, sheep, chickens, and pigs can be managed together in a single pasture-based system without confinementWhy daily animal movement improves pasture health, soil biology, and animal welfareHow forest-raised pigs and diverse forage directly influence meat flavor and qualityThe practical trade-offs of regenerative farming, including predators, hay quality, and laborWhy transparency, farm visits, and frozen meat matter for trust in the food systemJulie InstagramWildom Farm InstagramWebsiteTimestamps 00:00:00 – Daily pasture moves and extending the grazing season 00:04:00 – Mobile shade and infrastructure without trees 00:07:45 – Starting the cow herd and choosing heritage breeds 00:10:30 – Grassland birds, hay timing, and ecological trade-offs 00:14:10 – Letting customers walk the farm and see the animals 00:18:00 – Why cows, sheep, and chickens are run together 00:22:00 – Forest-raised pigs and whey feeding from a local creamery 00:30:00 – How forage diversity changes the taste of pork 00:37:30 – Fatty acid testing and nutrition in pork and chicken 00:43:30 – Processing bottlenecks and booking a year ahead 00:45:30 – On-farm slaughter vs USDA facilities 00:53:30 – Farm store transparency and frozen meat
In this episode of NDO Podcast we visit with Kent Luttschwager, Department wildlife resource management section leader, about the diverse work a district biologist does, how WMA management has changed throughout his career and utilizing cattle grazing to accomplish our goals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Adam Daugherty joins us from southern Indiana to share the story of how a few cows, some encouragement from family, and a willingness to try rotational grazing transformed his operation. Adam talks through the early days of partnering with his grandfather and great-aunt, the moment rotational grazing finally “clicked,” and how semi-permanent fencing, flexible water systems, and strategic winter feeding have reshaped his pastures. He also walks us through his approach to genetics, cow size, docility, and marketing calves directly to a feedlot rather than selling through a barn—plus what he wishes new graziers would know before they start.Topics CoveredGetting started with cattle through family partnershipsHow one brother-in-law pushed him toward rotational grazingUsing fiberglass posts and high-tensile wire as low-cost subdivision fencingBuilding water hubs, temporary pipelines, and later upgrading to buried linesUsing a movable tank and quick-connect valves for efficient daily movesHow rotational grazing changed pasture health, weed pressure, and animal behaviorManaging winter feeding with concrete pads and strategic hay unrollingBenefits of a sacrifice paddock—and why we shouldn't be afraid to use oneBuying and developing genetics within the family herdManaging docility and safety while working a W2 jobTheir marketing system: preconditioning and selling directly to a local feedlotFuture plans: warm-season grasses, tire-tank siphon systems, and refining geneticsWhy You Should ListenAdam exemplifies the reality for many graziers: juggling off-farm jobs, limited time, and a desire to do better with what you already have. His story is packed with practical, low-cost ideas—from fencing to water to winter feeding—that can help new and seasoned graziers rethink their systems. If you've ever felt too busy to start rotational grazing or unsure where to begin, Adam's journey will show you exactly how doable it can be.Resources MentionedLocal NRCS & Soil and Water offices (mapping, design, & technical support)Graber Farm Supply (fiberglass posts & materials)Purdue's Southern Indiana research farm (SIPAC)Daily Manufacturing bale unroller Looking for Livestock that thrive on grass? Check out Grass Based GeneticsVisit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmond Agriculture.Grazing Grass LinksNew Listener Resource GuideProvide feedback for the podcastWebsiteInsidersResourcesCommunity (on Facebook)Check out the Apiary Chronicles PodcastOriginal Music by Louis Palfrey
Guest: Natalie SturmHosts: Dr. Buz Kloot and Dr. Gabe KenneRunning time: 62 mins“We could take a shovel, and shovel up some soil in one field, and then just go across the dirt road, and the soils would look completely different... it kind of blew my mind that the only difference between those two fields was the crop rotation they had been under for the past 20 to 30 years.”—Natalie SturmEpisode Summary:Natalie Sturm is a rising voice in cropping systems and soil health. She joins us to reframe the tillage conversation—not as a binary between conventional and no-till, but as part of a broader system that includes crop rotation, residue management, livestock integration, and long-term soil function. Drawing on her M.S. research at the Dakota Lakes Research Farm, Natalie shares insights about why no-till alone isn't enough and how thoughtful rotation design can drive both soil quality and profitability.We talk about:Why two side-by-side no-till fields can look dramatically differentHow biomass, not just crop diversity, builds better soilsThe drought resilience of long rotationsHow longer rotations can reduce herbicide and pesticide useThe economics of dryland vs. irrigated systemsPractical tips for transitioning into more resilient systems, one step at a timeNatalie's journey from suburban Chicago to the helm of Dakota LakesFeatured Guest Bio:Natalie Sturm didn't grow up in agriculture—she's originally from suburban Chicago. Her passion for climate, biodiversity, and human health led her to Montana State University, where she earned a B.S. in Agroecology. She then completed her M.S. at South Dakota State University studying long-term no-till crop rotations at Dakota Lakes Research Farm. Natalie is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Washington State University on the effects of cropping systems on soil compaction in the Palouse region. In 2026, she will return to Dakota Lakes as its new research farm manager.
What if managing your herd felt more like managing an app than wrestling with wire and posts? In this episode we'll break down how virtual fencing is reshaping grazing for livestock producers across the country. We'll explain how a simple collar and phone app let producers draw fences over any terrain, protect sensitive areas, and move herds without setting foot in the pasture. Joined by Nofence National Sales Director, Eric Yates, we dig into the rising cost and rigidity of traditional fencing, the wildlife benefits of removing physical fence, and real examples of ranchers grazing steep, rocky, flood prone country they never could have used before. He also shares how Nofence helps producers plan grazing seasons months and years ahead, monitor animals in real time, and why he believes “virtual fence trained” cattle could be the next premium in the market. About Eric Yates: Eric Yates helps ranchers unlock new opportunities with virtual fencing technology as the US National Sales Director for Nofence. He joined Nofence in June 2025 and has been at the forefront of virtual fencing since 2023. A proud 2010 graduate of Texas A&M, Eric has spent his entire career in the cattle industry including more than a decade in animal health sales with Merial and Merck, to now leading the charge in transforming grazing management for herds across the US. This episode is sponsored by Nofence. Nofence empowers livestock producers to graze without compromise while respecting tradition and embracing innovation. Built by farmers for farmers, Nofence's reliable virtual fencing system delivers peace of mind, supports sustainable livestock management, and unlocks new possibilities for the future of your operation.
In this episode of "Grazing," Clint visits with military veterans and married couple John (U.S. Marine Corps) and Louise Logan (U.S. Navy) in honor of Veterans Day.
Rachel Bouressa of Bouressa Family Farm joins us from central Wisconsin, where she's a fifth-generation farmer and second-generation grazier managing 120 acres with a soil-first mindset. After returning home following a barn fire, she rebuilt her operation using perennial forages, diverse annuals, and a willingness to experiment. Today she's deeply involved with Grassworks, Wisconsin Farmers Union, NRCS conservation planning, women-in-conservation mentoring, and the Upper Fox Wolf Demonstration Farm Network—all while running a thriving direct-to-consumer beef business.Topics Covered in This EpisodeRebuilding the family farm after a barn fire and starting with just 15 acresDeveloping a soil-first grazing philosophy and “earned efficiency”Working closely with NRCS and building strong planner–farmer relationshipsConverting row-crop ground back to pasture using rye, diverse cool-season mixes, and sorghum-SudanChoosing cattle genetics: British White Parks, Devons, and Murray GreysDirect-to-consumer beef sales and transitioning to Barn2DoorExtending the grazing season toward ChristmasAudubon Bird-Friendly certification and creating habitat valueWhy You Should ListenIf you're looking for a grounded, real-world example of what soil-first grazing looks like in practice, Rachel brings hard-earned wisdom, humility, and a spirit of experimentation. Her story is full of practical insights—from pasture renovation to breed selection to extending the grazing season—and she offers a refreshingly honest look at the challenges and rewards of growing a regenerative, community-connected grazing operation.Resources MentionedGrassworks ConferenceNRCS grazing resourcesAudubon Conservation Ranching ProgramWendell Berry — Unsettling of America, The Gift of Good LandFred Provenza — Nourishment Looking for Livestock that thrive on grass? Check out Grass Based GeneticsVisit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmond Agriculture.Grazing Grass LinksNew Listener Resource GuideProvide feedback for the podcastWebsiteInsidersResourcesCommunity (on Facebook)Check out the Apiary Chronicles PodcastOriginal Music by Louis Palfrey
Harry Frederick of Winding Creek Farms, Tompkinsville, KentuckyWinding Creek Farms: https://www.windingcreekfarms.com/Farm Dog is presented by Goats On The Go® and hosted by its founder, Aaron Steele. Questions, comments, or topic suggestions? Let us know at FarmDogPodcast.com, and buy some branded merch while you're there to support us!Get the audio book, Goats for Good: Making Goats Profitable for Your Farm, Your Community, and the World at GoatsForGood.com.Creative Commons Music by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com.
Balancing Herd Health, Pasture Performance & Soil Regeneration What does it take to keep livestock thriving and pastures resilient through a long Western winter? In this episode, we sit down with a seasoned rangeland expert, Kelsey Miller, who has spent over two decades working with ranchers across Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado to fine-tune grazing management and regenerative practices. From traditional feeding to innovative approaches like stockpile grazing and bale grazing, we explore the strategies ranchers use to maintain herd performance, protect soil health, and make the most of limited winter forage. She breaks down how feed quality changes with the seasons, why palatability matters, and how balancing nitrogen and carbon in the diet can boost animal health. We also dig into how winter can actually be an opportunity to improve soil health from using bale grazing to build organic matter and microbial activity, to leveraging snow as a water source and managing grazing density when the ground is frozen solid. Plus, we touch on key watchouts like toxicity risks, unwanted seed spread, and overgrazing dormant forages. Whether you're managing a ranch, consulting on grazing systems, or just fascinated by how regenerative livestock systems work year-round, this conversation offers practical insights and fresh perspective on the art and science of winter grazing. About the our guests: Kelsey Miller is currently based out of Billings Montana. She comes from a ranching background, and has spent much of the last 20 years working to improve Western pastures, rangelands, and the herds that graze them. She attended Montana State University in Bozeman, where she earned her B.S in animal science. Her professional focus includes grazing systems, plant community dynamics, mapping, monitoring, remote sensing, soil health, local food systems, animal health, wildlife ecology, and landscape level collaboration.
Grazing Lawns? What is that? According to Nate Chisholm they are an integral part of natural grazing systems and they should have a place in our grazing systems. We discuss what a Grazing Lawn is as well as how they would be practically implemented into our grazing plans.Thanks to our Studio Sponsor, Understanding Ag!Head over to UnderstandingAg.com to book your consultation today!Sponsor:Ranch RightSea-90 Ocean Minerals
“I happened to be visiting my family home in Italy this past week and some cows were grazing in the field opposite, regardless of the rain, fog or snow. Their bell kept me company through the week.”
Today's episode brings you a story that sits right at the intersection of grit, service, and the regenerative future of our military installations. And it starts with a spark—one that Angela Czaja noticed long before the Department of War ever cared about cattle, soil health, or regenerative grazing. As Angela puts it: “I saw, even in North Carolina, just this passion that Eric [her husband] had for livestock… this spark about him whenever he was around the livestock… That was just a really special place for him.” That spark eventually became one of the most unconventional, disruptive, and frankly needed ideas to hit the national security space in decades: using regenerative livestock management as a tool to harden military installations, restore degraded training lands, and create meaningful pathways for transitioning service members. Angela joins us today to give the inside view—not the thesis version, not the policy deck, but the family-level, marriage-level, move-across-the-country-three-times-with-kids-in-tow version—of what it really took to build what is now the Regenerative Grazing Open-Air Lab at Camp San Luis Obispo. In this conversation, you'll hear how a dairy-farm kid from Wisconsin ends up shaping one of the most interesting ag-meets-national-security projects in the country… why livestock became a lifeline of purpose during her husband's transition from the Army Special Forces… and how their family's faith, resilience, and service-driven mindset turned a wild idea into a model the Pentagon is now watching closely. You can also watch the short documentary produced by Peter Byck on YouTube here. Enjoy!
A nonprofit nature reserve in Montana is suing the state. American Prairie argues the state needs to decide whether to grant their six-year-old request for permits to graze bison on state lands.
Winter feed costs continue to be one of the greatest determiners of profitability for ranches. Meaning, that more of it we have to do using equipment the less profitable we will be. Brett McRae has been working diligently to find ways to cut down on winter feed costs. One practice that has really moved the needle for him and his operation is grazing standing corn. Today we discuss this practice with him. We talk about how he chooses a field, how he determines forage demand, forage availability, as well as the soil health benefits of this practice.Thanks to our Studio Sponsor, Understanding Ag!Head over to UnderstandingAg.com to book your consultation today!Sponsor:Ranch RightSea-90 Ocean Minerals
Grazing. Chronic stress. Poor sleep. Rushed meals. Sitting for long hours. Underfueled workouts. Estrogen decline. There's a lot more behind our fasting glucose and A1C than how many carbs we eat. This week we return to one of the most consistently requested topics: blood sugar meaning and management with Liz McKinney, CNS, LDN. We explore what glucose spikes really mean, why time-in-range and variability matter more than a single peak, and how stress, sleep, and even eating speed affect your numbers. We cover carb timing, meal sequencing, post-meal walks, creatine, why under-fueling can make exercise spikes worse, and much more so you can keep glucose working for your performance and overall health.Liz McKinney, CNS, LDN, heads up the clinical nutrition team at Nutrisense. Liz holds a Master of Science degree in Clinical Nutrition and Integrative Health and is a board-certified nutrition specialist (CNS) as well as a licensed dietitian nutritionist (LDN). In her time as a nutritionist, Liz has educated and counseled hundreds of clients in areas such as weight loss, hormonal imbalances, and gastrointestinal diseases. Her approach is rooted in the tenets of functional medicine, and she strives to identify the root cause of the issue instead of simply treating the symptoms. She realizes there is no one-size-fits-all approach to achieving optimal health and feels it is crucial to be in an equal partnership with her clients. Resources What to Know About Prediabetes and Menopause with Val Schonberg, RDN, CSSD (Episode 202)Sign up for our FREE Feisty 40+ newsletter: https://feisty.co/feisty-40/Join our Feisty Winter Training for Cyclists at https://feisty.co/ and look for the yellow banner at the top of the page. Use code HITPLAY50 to save $50 Learn More and Register for our 2026 Tucson Bike Camp: https://feisty.co/events/gravel-camp-x-bike-mechanic-school/ Follow Us on Instagram:Feisty Menopause: @feistymenopause Hit Play Not Pause Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/807943973376099 Support our Partners:Midi Health: You Deserve to Feel Great. Book your virtual visit today at https://www.joinmidi.com/Previnex: Get 15% off your first order with code HITPLAY at https://www.previnex.com/ Nutrisense: Go to nutrisense.io/hitplay and use code: HITPLAY to get 30% offWahoo KICKR RUN: Use the code FEISTY to get a free Headwind Smart Fan (value $300) with the purchase of a Wahoo KICKR RUN at https://shorturl.at/maTzL
Steven Rofrano grew up in New Jersey in an Italian-American family that instilled a deep respect for food quality and old-world traditions. Steven struggled with chronic health issues growing up, until he discovered that eliminating seed oils and processed foods made him feel truly healthy for the first time. Fueled by years of obsessive research, Steven became convinced that classic American foods can be both healthy and delicious—if made without toxic ingredients. Determined to prove this, he quit his big tech software job in 2022 to launch Ancient Crunch, starting with MASA Chips, the first nixtamalized tortilla chips cooked in grass-fed beef tallow. Next came Vandy Crisps, tallow-cooked potato chips that restore the 'Great American Snack' to its original seed oil-free glory. Today, Steven remains on a mission to rebuild America's pantry with real, nourishing ingredients—and, of course, to spread a little anti-seed oil "propaganda" along the way. Website: https://ancientcrunch.com/ Timestamps: 00:00 Trailer 00:33 Introduction 03:28 Tallow as the best frying fat 08:38 Fixing manufacturing and health systems 11:36 Cattle, land, and tallow production 14:58 Grazing and land restoration 17:38 Saturated vs. vegetable oil turnover 21:17 Animal fat vs. seed oils 25:42 Pesticide use on corn 29:02 Wagyu quality factors 29:54 Grass-fed farming challenges 35:20 Automated production quality 38:26 Making classic snacks healthy 40:10 Fried food & caloric intake Join Revero now to regain your health: https://revero.com/YT Revero.com is an online medical clinic for treating chronic diseases with this root-cause approach of nutrition therapy. You can get access to medical providers, personalized nutrition therapy, biomarker tracking, lab testing, ongoing clinical care, and daily coaching. You will also learn everything you need with educational videos, hundreds of recipes, and articles to make this easy for you. Join the Revero team (medical providers, etc): https://revero.com/jobs #Revero #ReveroHealth #shawnbaker #Carnivorediet #MeatHeals #AnimalBased #ZeroCarb #DietCoach #FatAdapted #Carnivore #sugarfree Disclaimer: The content on this channel is not medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider.