Connecting people and ideas that are shaping the future of the cattle industry, “The Future of Beef Show” is a podcast hosted by Jim Johnson of Brands and Barbed Wire, Ian Wheal, CEO and founder of Breedr, and Jessica Sperber, University of Nebraska feedlot specialist. Alongside an inspiring lineup of guests, they share stories from the forefront of modern beef production and show how technology and data can make all the difference — while staying true to the values that define the beef industry.
Drovers is now “The Future of Beef Show’s” official media partner. This week, episodes one through five are available on Farm Journal TV, Farm Journal’s YouTube channel and Farm Journal NOW with new episodes dropping biweekly starting June 17.
“Partnering with Drovers brings our shared vision for the future of American beef to the largest stage,” Wheal says. “Their deep trust with producers and commitment to progress make them the perfect media partner for The Future of Beef Show. Together, we can amplify the smartest ideas, most practical tools, and progressive voices shaping the next generation of cattle production — ultimately helping more ranchers turn data into decisions and decisions into dollars.”
Backed by Farm Journal’s tradition and engine, Drovers’ robust digital, print and broadcast footprint provides the beef industry with news, analysis and insights. Established in 1873 as the Chicago Daily Drovers Journal, it is recognized as the nation’s oldest livestock publication.
“What excites me most about this partnership is the chance to reach more cattlemen and women who care deeply about doing things better — for their animals, their land and their bottom line,” Johnson says. “Drovers gives us a bigger megaphone to share real-world stories and tools that can help every operation thrive.”
Drovers’ comprehensive coverage of the beef industry includes market trends, production practices, health and nutrition, technology and policy developments. Drovers’ mission is to help ensure a thriving and efficient beef industry for generations to come.
“We’re going to tackle the big topics like genetics, sustainability and supply chain innovations,” Sperber explains. “But don’t worry — we’ll cut through the corporate speak and show you the real opportunities available right now for every size of beef producer —big or small.”
Episodes currently available on the Farm Journal platforms are:
Episode 1: A New Era of Connected Beef
Lamar Steiger, co-owner of the 808 Ranch and Ranch to Retail, shares his insights on where the industry is headed and what it means for producers.
Episode 2: Individual Animal Management – Beating the Bell Curve
John Schroeder, general manager of Darr Feedlot in Cozad, Neb., shares his insights on optimizing a cow herd beyond the averages.
Episode 3: Genetics – The Foundation for Consistent, High-Quality Beef
Troy Marshall, American Angus Association’s director of commercial industry relations, explores how genetics can help producers make smarter breeding decisions and maximize herd potential.
Episode 4: Genomics – Unlocking the Potential of Your Herd
Nick Jorgensen, CEO of Jorgensen Land & Cattle, discusses how genetic selection drives profitability and consistency in beef production.
Episode 5: Succession with Alan Hojer
Alan Hojer, a longtime ranch succession expert who’s helped hundreds of families tackle one of the toughest transitions in agriculture, covers passing the ranch to the next generation. He shares hard-earned insights on why so many ranchers avoid planning, what gets in the way of productive conversations and how to turn tension into trust at the kitchen table.
Learn more about The Future of Beef podcast at FutureofBeef.com.
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