In this conversation, Zack Lindsley shares his journey as a first-generation farmer and feedlot owner, discussing the challenges he faced, the importance of financial literacy, and how technology has transformed his operation. He emphasizes the significance of community involvement and mentorship in agriculture and offers insights into evaluating new technologies for efficiency and ROI. Zack's story is one of perseverance, growth, and a commitment to family and community.

Takeaways

• Zack is a first-generation farmer who took over his father-in-law's operation.
• He faced challenges due to a lack of experience and had to learn independently.
• Zack emphasizes the importance of financial literacy in farming.
• He believes success in agriculture is defined by family and community, not just money.
• Technology, like Performance Beef, has significantly improved his operation's efficiency.
• Zack evaluates new technologies based on cost, efficiency, and ease of use.
• He has built a supportive team to help manage his operation.
• Community involvement is crucial for rural thriving and personal fulfillment.
• Zack encourages others to take risks and try new things in agriculture.
• He values the lifestyle that farming provides for his family.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Description of Zack's Operation
03:38 Challenges Faced as a First-Generation Farmer
05:07 Vetting Ideas and Mentors in Agriculture
08:15 Motivation to Enter Agriculture and Definition of Success
10:22 Key Traits of Successful Farmers
12:06 Tracking Inputs and Financial Management
14:24 Implementing Technology for Efficiency
16:44 Impact of Performance Beef on the Operation
19:16 Vetting Process for New Technologies
20:35 Other Technologies Implemented on the Operation
24:28 Outsourcing and Time Management
26:17 Use of EIDs and Animal Health Tracking
28:02 Adoption of EIDs in the Industry
30:47 Impact of Time Savings on Community Involvement
32:01 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Aspiring Farmers

Performance Beef: https://www.performancelivestockanalytics.com/stories/10-cattle-feeders-ag-lender-relationship?utm_campaign=%5BPLA%5D%20General%20Awareness%20%7C%202024&utm_source=Casual%20Cattle%20Conversations&utm_medium=Newsletter%20Ad&utm_content=Ag%20Lending%20Article

More Ranching Resources: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/ranching-resources