The Beef Podcast Show

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Dr. Kip Karges from Lallemand Animal Nutrition breaks down the importance of supporting your herd from spring calving through weaning, emphasizing how early nutrition decisions set the foundation for productivity. He explains why green grass doesn’t always meet nutritional needs and how understanding pasture limitations is key to herd performance. Learn why spring is the ideal time to plan feeding and supplementation and how fiber digestibility impacts the overall nutrient profile. Listen now on all major platforms!"Degradable protein is key—sometimes you’ve got to supplement it to optimize fiber digestibility."Meet the guest: Dr. Kip Karges received his M.S. in Animal Nutrition from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and completed his Ph.D. in Animal Nutrition at Oklahoma State University. With over 30 years of industry experience, his expertise spans feed technology, microbiome health, and multi-species nutrition research. He currently serves as North American Technical Service Manager at Lallemand Animal Nutrition.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:21) Introduction(04:19) Strategic nutrition planning(08:01) Fiber digestibility challenges(17:11) Rumen health and function(21:11) Supplementing poor forages(27:21) Long-term planning benefits(37:51) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like: Lallemand* bioMérieux- dsm-firmenich- Virbac- Pro Earth Animal Health𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

As we celebrate Earth Day this month, this special episode of The Beef Podcast Show addresses a crucial topic for sustainability in cattle production. Dr. Juliana Ranches from Oregon State University explores the impacts of wildfire smoke exposure on cattle health and performance—an issue of increasing concern for producers and the environment. From elevated stress hormones like cortisol to effects on feed intake, Dr. Ranches discusses the physiological changes in cattle during wildfire seasons. She also shares her research on practical strategies for producers to mitigate these impacts and protect their herds. Tune in now on all major platforms!"We’ve seen that exposure to smoke increases stress hormones in cattle, similar to weaning stress."Meet the guest: Dr. Juliana Ranches is an Assistant Professor and Beef Extension Specialist at Oregon State University, focusing on cattle nutrition, health, and production management. She holds a PhD in Animal Sciences from the University of Florida, where she researched mineral nutrition. Now based in eastern Oregon, Dr. Ranches is leading innovative studies on the effects of smoke exposure on livestock and exploring strategies to support beef cattle producers.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:27) Introduction(02:23) Cattle nutrition and research(05:02) Impact of wildfire smoke(06:57) Smoke exposure and health(13:05) Stress response in cattle(24:25) Future study directions(25:47) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* bioMérieux- dsm-firmenich- Virbac- Lallemand- Pro Earth Animal Health𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Kirk Sparkman, owner and operator of Sparkman Cattle Feeders, shares his experience in cattle feeding and animal health management. He discusses key challenges such as drought impacts, rising feed costs, and the importance of gut health in feedlot cattle. Kirk also explains how strategic nutrition and health protocols improve performance and profitability. Tune in now on all major platforms!"We need to use products that keep cattle healthy from start to finish. It’s all about efficiency, health, and getting the best return."Meet the guest: Kirk Sparkman is a third-generation cattle feeder and the owner/operator of Sparkman Cattle Feeders in Hereford, Texas. Raised in the industry, he has dedicated his career to optimizing feedlot operations, cattle health, and efficient nutrition strategies. With years of experience managing the challenges of drought, fluctuating market prices, and herd health, Kirk shares valuable insights into the future of cattle feeding.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:11) Introduction (03:51) Managing drought challenges (07:24) Gut health importance (09:08) Evaluating return on investment (21:30) Future of cattle prices (26:32) Advice for cattle feeders (28:10) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like: Pro Earth Animal Health* bioMérieux- dsm-firmenich- Virbac- Lallemand𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Dr. Alice Brandão from Texas A&M University shares insights into her journey from Brazil to the U.S. and her work in beef cattle education. She discusses the importance of making research-based concepts accessible, bridging knowledge gaps for students in agriculture, and how hands-on experience shapes careers in the beef industry. Listen now on all major platforms!"The best way to prepare for a career in beef production is hands-on experience—internships, research, and time in the field."Meet the guest: Dr. Alice Brandão is an Instructional Assistant Professor at Texas A&M University, where she focuses on agricultural education and bridging the gap between research and real-world application. Originally from Brazil, she earned her DVM and master's degree from São Paulo State University before completing her PhD in Animal Science at Texas A&M.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:41) Introduction (05:49) Teaching in agriculture (11:57) Experiences and challenges (18:21) Impact of fetal programming (23:31) Enhancing student experiences (36:41) Student career advice (39:18) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Lallemand- Pro Earth Animal Health- dsm-firmenich- Virbac- bioMérieux𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, David Tomas and Dr. Vikrant Dutta from bioMérieux explore how regulation, science, and industry challenges intersect in modern beef safety management. From regulation to industry challenges, they explain what PEC, STEC, and E.coli O157:H7 mean for the beef sector—and why it matters. Explore the future of export/import regulations, evolving risks, and the impact of diagnostics to rapidly identify samples containing Shiga Toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC). Listen now on all major platforms!"PEC markers are associated with specific strains and provide a true positive only when the markers are present in the same cell, helping reduce the number of positives in the preliminary screening." - David TomasMeet the guests: David Tomas, Associate Director of Scientific Affairs at bioMérieux, holds a Master’s in Food Science from the Polytechnic University of Valencia. With over 25 years in microbiology and food safety, he has led global projects and contributed to the ISO committee developing reference methods for microbiological analysis.Dr. Vikrant Dutta holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology from North Carolina State University, an M.S. in Poultry Microbiology from the University of Arkansas, and a DVM from Maharashtra Animal and Fishery Sciences University. He is Senior Director of Scientific Affairs at bioMérieux, focusing on public health pathogens and diagnostic systems.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(02:09) Introduction(05:35) Risk-based food safety(09:21) STEC detection challenges(14:22) Economic impact of testing(18:32) Advancements in diagnostics(25:42) PEC markers(42:45) Closing thoughtsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like: bioMérieux- Lallemand- Pro Earth Animal Health- dsm-firmenich- Virbac𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Dr. Rob Hunter, CEO of One Medicine Consulting, unpacks the complexities of veterinary pharmacology, product development, and regulatory challenges in the beef industry. With over 30 years of experience, he breaks down key concepts like generics, bioequivalents, and biowaivers while addressing common concerns around quality and efficacy. Tune in for a deeper understanding of the regulatory landscape for animal health products. Listen now on all major platforms!"Generics must meet bioequivalence standards to ensure they perform the same as pioneer pharmaceutical products."Meet the guest: Dr. Rob Hunter, CEO of One Medicine Consulting, earned his M.S. in Veterinary Physiology from Texas A&M University and his Ph.D. in Veterinary Pharmacology from Louisiana State University. With 30+ years in veterinary drug development, he has contributed to major pharmaceutical advancements for livestock and companion animals. A recognized expert in pharmacokinetics, veterinary bioequivalence, and human food safety, he has represented the U.S. veterinary pharmaceutical industry on various global committees. He also serves on the editorial boards for several prominent journals in the field.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:40) Introduction(07:24) CVM and bioequivalence(08:53) Considerations on generics(12:13) Pioneer vs. generics(16:44) Pharmaceutical development changes(21:14) Challenges in animal health(25:37) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like: Virbac- Lallemand- Pro Earth Animal Health- bioMérieux- dsm-firmenich𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

Dr. Caitlin Cadaret, an Assistant Professor at Colorado State University, dives into the critical intersection of livestock, maternal nutrition, and education. She emphasizes hands-on learning as a vital tool for aspiring veterinary professionals, showcasing innovative research on livestock stress and its long-term effects on reproductive health. Dr. Cadaret discusses how experiential learning can ignite student passion, while addressing the unique challenges faced by future professionals in agriculture. Tune in to explore the future of beef industry education!

In this special rerun episode of The Beef Podcast Show, we revisit our conversation with Jeff Smith, co-founder of Colorado Craft Beef, who shares the incredible journey of building a thriving direct-to-consumer beef brand. Jeff reveals the challenges and successes of acquiring a harvest facility, forming strategic partnerships with influential investors, and optimizing the beef supply chain. Discover how perseverance, innovative thought, and strategic alliances can turn obstacles into avenues for advancement and influence. Tune in on all major platforms!"We will have more ability to make a positive impact if we put all our assets behind both of us, working with the right team and impacting the industry."Meet the guest: Jeff Smith, co-founder of Colorado Craft Beef, holds a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Business and Management from Colorado State University. With over two decades of experience spanning private equity, sales management, and agriculture, Jeff’s entrepreneurial journey led to the founding of a thriving grassroots beef brand.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:14) Introduction(09:29) Big moves and growth strategies(12:29) Partnerships and its impact(15:42) Rural communities(23:51) Future operational plans(39:14) Challenges of the deal process(51:02) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Pro Earth Animal Health- dsm-firmenich- Lallemand- Virbac- bioMérieux𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Dr. Jessica Sperber, a feedlot extension specialist from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, explores key aspects of feedlot management and beef cattle nutrition. Dr. Sperber shares her insights on the differences in feedlot practices between the U.S. and Canada, the impact of different feeding strategies on cattle performance, and the significance of understanding carcass transfer. Don't miss the episode, available on all major platforms.P.S.: This episode was recorded in May 2024. Experior and MGA were not approved to be fed together at that time—that changed in November. Also, the fat cattle prices discussed in the episode may not reflect current values."Carcass transfer analysis reveals how much live weight gain is retained in the carcass, crucial for optimizing feedlot outcomes."Meet the guest: Dr. Jessica Sperber holds a Ph.D. in Ruminant Nutrition from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and an M.S. in Meat Science from West Texas A&M University. She is an Assistant Professor and Feedlot Extension Specialist at UNL, focusing on feedlot performance, carcass outcomes, and technologies to enhance beef production efficiency. With a diverse background in cow/calf operations and a passion for sustainable beef production, Dr. Sperber brings a wealth of knowledge to the industry.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:33) Introduction(05:37) Feedlot U.S. vs. Canada(09:17) Barley vs. corn in feed(12:49) Managing heifers vs. steers(24:05) Carcass transfer(32:58) Best practices for management(39:08) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Pro Earth Animal Health- bioMérieux- Lallemand- dsm-firmenich- Virbac𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Dr. Zachary Smith from South Dakota State University breaks down the role of steroidal implants in beef production. He covers key topics like implant timing, growth efficiency, carcass quality, and FDA regulations, offering practical tips to help maximize returns in cattle finishing systems. Dr. Smith also takes a closer look at using implants throughout all stages of production, discussing the trade-offs from ranch to harvest. Don’t miss this insightful conversation—listen now on your favorite podcast platform!"Steroidal implants have been safely used in beef production for nearly 70 years, improving cattle growth efficiency and optimizing resource use."Meet the guest: Dr. Zachary Smith, an Associate Professor of Animal Science at South Dakota State University, specializes in the nutrition and management of fed beef cattle from weaning to harvest. Since 2018, he has mentored graduate students to degree completion, published 71 peer-reviewed journal articles, contributed over 100 abstracts, and authored a book chapter. With more than $4.3 million in research funding, cattle feeders worldwide have widely adopted Dr. Smith's findings.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:32) Introduction(02:01) Implant history(03:12) Implant timing phases(12:20) Carcass quality(13:34) FDA regulations(29:27) Remarks on implants(31:27) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Virbac- Pro Earth Animal Health- bioMérieux- Lallemand- dsm-firmenich𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show