As ranchers, we often carry the mindset of high-performing entrepreneurs—driven, resilient and relentless in our pursuit of progress. While these qualities fuel innovation and grit, they can also make it difficult to recognize just how far we’ve already come.

Johnson says, “Historically, when we looked at research data we did not find it cost effective when comparing cost of gain to the value of a weaned calf. Now, the current cattle market we are in is a game changer.”

“Matriarchs are the difference between success and failure in family and business continuity,” Specht said. “They are the story-keepers and shape how children view the operation. They are the most invested in family dynamics too. When people don’t make plans with the mothers fully involved, I’m skeptical it will work.”

“In agriculture, we are having the time of our lives, but we are also experiencing some of the highest risk of our lives,” says Jason.

The solution Jason and Candice decided on was Ambrook – an accounting software designed specifically for agriculture. Ambrook allows them to get a near-instant picture of the finances for each individual enterprise and make it easy to enter, designate and sort through all income and expenses.

“The only way to cash-flow the property is for us to utilize these additional revenue streams,” says Jason.

“It’s important to remember that the person is not the problem, the problem is the problem,” says Lauren.

One influential factor that is often unrecognized is how our ancestors processed their experiences which could have resulted in transferred trauma or generational trauma. Many immigrants started farming in the United Sates in state of survival mode where every decision was based on how to keep their family alive. Constant survival mode can result in overused resilience which can cost relationships.

Jennifer says, “A lot of the cell populations in the testicle are developed before the bull is 6 months of age.” Once these cells are developed, there is no going back to make up for lost nutrition.

Adding urea to liquid feed is a win-win for rumen microbes because molasses is also in the supplement. “When I think about the combination of molasses and urea in liquid supplementation, they are a symbiotic relationship that complements the grass,” says Sanders.

Executive Director of the Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) – Bob Weaber says, “We try to build the program to push everyone in their thinking, but they aren’t topics that are going to go way over your head.”

Ranching is more than just cattle management—it's about balancing land, soil, and grazing strategies. Devlon Ford, a lifelong learner and educator at the Noble Research Institute, emphasizes the importance of grazing plans for ranchers. He discusses essential concepts like carrying capacity, stocking rate, and stock density, which play a critical role in sustainable land management and profitability.

Kathy says, “The beef industry has spent a lot of money to discover scientific facts about beef. It’s not just hearsay from 30 years ago. We need to share that information.”

The guys and gals who know their numbers show steady growth year in and year out.

Blane says, “Our industry does a remarkably good job at producing beef and part of that is managing immunity.”  Take the time to review your herd health protocols with your veterinarian and review BQA materials to be prepared for any challenges that may come your way and boost performance in your herd. 

Despite her reservations, she has been pleasantly surprised at how well this technology has worked and served their ranch.

“The biggest challenge we run into with mineral programs is finding a product that cows will consume consistently throughout the year,” says Russell. A lot of problems can be prevented through consistent and on target mineral consumption but there is no one-size-fits-all approach.

Andrew Uden – CEO of HerdDogg says, “We are finally to the point where wearables are becoming cost-effective enough and getting enough range to be effective on ranches.”

If a landowner is interested in engaging in a carbon program, there are numerous things to consider. “There are only a handful of programs out there. Look at all the programs and do your due diligence. Look at which program is going to fit the needs of your ranch. Don’t jump at the first one that comes by,” says Ryan. The right opportunity might not arise for another year or two.

It’s an exciting time to be a rancher and truthfully, as a young rancher myself I think we have a lot to look forward to. But just because we have a lot to look forward to doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot of work to do either. One thing I don’t take lightly as a young rancher is that we hold the future of the industry in our hands. Generations before us have put in the work and now it is our turn.

Young cows are considered high-risk females because they have the most energy needs to be met compared to their older or younger herd mates. Heifers are not lactating during their first breeding season and mature cows are done growing. Young cows chasing the second calf are doing both of these on top of trying to meet their basal metabolism needs and reproduce.

The AirBNB works perfect for Lettie’s lifestyle as it is flexible and not time consuming. It also adds to the ranch’s wedding venue and community event space. Lettie is solely in charge of both these enterprises and made a point for them both to be as hands off as possible.