In an industry where it seems large-scale operations often dominate, a refreshing story emerges from the heart of San Diego County. Alli Fender, a dynamic force within the beef industry, invites you to explore the boundless potential of small-scale cattle ranching. Alongside her husband Bryce, Alli has forged a path that defies conventional wisdom, leveraging the inherent advantages of their small operation to craft a truly remarkable success story.

Alli's infectious enthusiasm captivates, as she recounts the pivotal moments that ignited their journey – a gift of ten heifers that has turned into a direct-to-consumer beef business, ranch-to-table dinners, picnics and tours. What began as a humble endeavor has blossomed into a multifaceted enterprise, fueled by an unwavering commitment to serving the local community and remaining profitable as a business owner.

Strategies for leveraging your operation's size to foster meaningful connections with customers
Insights into curating a genetically superior herd tailored to your unique goals
Tips for diversifying your revenue streams through immersive on-farm experiences
The art of pivoting: embracing change and seizing opportunities as they arise

Whether you're an aspiring rancher seeking inspiration, a seasoned producer in search of fresh ideas, or simply someone captivated by the stories that shape our food systems, this episode promises to leave you with a renewed appreciation for the art of small-scale cattle ranching and the visionaries who breathe life into it. Immerse yourself in Alli's world, and let her contagious spirit ignite your own journey towards a more profitable, community-driven future in agriculture.

00:00:00 Exploring Management Practices in the Beef Industry

00:02:23 Upgrading Genetic Potential for Efficiency

00:05:08 Building Community Trust through Social Media

00:05:48 Diversification into Black Angus Herd and Farm Events

00:09:27 Expanding Business Strategy to Farm-to-Table Events

00:09:46 Thinking Outside the Box in Business

00:12:01 Diversifying Business Strategies

00:13:14 Greencover Seed Promotion

00:14:12 Transition from Large to Small Scale Farming

00:16:14 Advantages of Small-Scale Operations

00:19:47 The Importance of Shipping in the Beef Industry

00:20:52 Passion for Sharing the Beef Industry Story

00:23:39 Defending California's Agriculture

00:24:56 Parting Thoughts: Eat Beef

Links:

https://flyingfranch.org/

Full Show Notes: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/casual-cattle-conversations-podcast-shownotes

Free Weekly Resources: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranching-resources

The easiest way to create a new revenue stream for your ranch is with LandTrust. Learn more here! www.landtrust.com/a/cattleconvos

Take Your Ranch to the Next Level

Once a month Shaye hosts Q&A calls between cattle producers and beef industry leaders to help ranchers find answers to their questions and improve their bottom lines. The best part is you get expert insight from the comfort of your own ranch and get to ask any question you want relating to the topic!

Learn More About RancherMinds: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranchermind-events

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Do you have an existing podcast or want to start a new one but don't know where to start? Connect with Shaye and she will lay out everything you need to know to get you started on the right foot.

Find podcast resources and coaching opportunities here! https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/podcast-coaching

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