188. Simple Recipe for Cattle Production with Bruce Shanks

Bruce shares his journey from managing sheep and goats to building a South Poll seedstock operation, the pivotal experiences that shaped his philosophy, and how he balances practicality with profitability. He also reflects on the importance of family, community, and keeping options open in an unpredictable business.

In this episode, we cover:

• Bruce’s background in agriculture and how he ended up in Bell, Missouri
• Transitioning from sheep and goats to a South Poll-centered cattle operation
• Lessons learned from Burke Teichert and the Rex Ranch about low-input grazing systems
• Why docility and adaptability matter in South Poll cattle
• Running sheep and cattle together, and the challenges of small ruminants
• How Bruce markets lambs and develops bulls with his customers in mind
• The role of lease land in his operation
• Advice for beginners: walk before you run and never say never in grazing

Whether you’re a grazier looking to simplify your system, or just curious about the South Poll breed, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and real-world experience.

 Bruce doesn’t overcomplicate things—his success comes from sticking to the basics. His “simple recipe” offers a refreshing reminder that profitability often comes from focus, discipline, and letting cattle prove themselves in the environment they’re meant for. If you’re thinking about South Polls, sheep, or just streamlining your grazing operation, Bruce’s story will give you ideas and encouragement.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Sassafras Valley Ranch
• Greg Judy’s No Risk Ranching (first book)
• How to Think Like a Grazier by Greg Judy
• South Poll Grass Cattle Association

Looking for Livestock that thrive on grass?  Check out Grass Based Genetics

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Original Music by Louis Palfrey