Understanding the molecular mechanisms behind the interactions between a host and their microbials is crucial for comprehending the complex relationship between cattle and their gut microbiota. Shedding light on how microbes contribute to the overall health and well-being of cattle is a major topic of interest, since several important traits in beef can be influenced by gut microbial ecology and harnessing their potential can help optimize feeding strategies, reduce environmental impact, and enhance overall productivity. In this episode, Dr. Leluo Guan discusses the work and research she has done on bovine "omics" and "microbes" and how it is crucial to understanding these key topics.“It is now widely known that genetics indeed play a role in the microbial colonization of cattle." - Dr. Leluo GuanWhat you’ll learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:46) Introduction(10:57) Rumen microbiology, functional genomics and feed efficiency(15:26) Selection criteria of beef cattle(17:24) Direct-fed microbials(21:10) Dam vs sire: influence on the microbial population of calves(24:17) Early life gut microbiome(31:11) Microbiota and immunity(32:27) Omics(37:04) Mentoring of graduate students(40:55) Three final questionsMeet the guest: Dr. Leluo GuanExperienceCurrent: Professor of Functional Genomics and Microbiology in the Faculty of Agriculture, Life and Environmental Science at the University of AlbertaPast: Associate Dean of Graduate studies in the Faculty of Agriculture, Life and Environmental Science at the University of AlbertaBackgroundPh.D., Pharmaceutical Science (Kyoto University) M.Sc., Pharmaceutical Science (Kyoto University)B.Sc., Microbiology (Wuhan University)Connect with our guest on Social Media: LinkedIn𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Bioverse- DSM

Having beef production as a family business has many benefits. It strengthens the connections among family members, instills values like hard work and collaboration, ensures the perpetuation and growth of the practice through the transfer of knowledge and skills across generations, and contributes to rural economic development. However, how do things work in day-to-day life? How can parenting and ranching be done simultaneously while having other external jobs? In this special episode, I talk to Dr. Hyatt Frobose (who is my husband, by the way) about the benefits and challenges of running a family beef business.“I think it's really powerful that our kids are going to have the same opportunities in the rural lifestyle that we had." - Dr. Hyatt FroboseWhat you’ll learn:Highlight (00:00)Introduction (01:36)Differences and challenges between hog and beef cattle (03:56)Staying up to date with the latest advancements and the best practices (07:34)The challenges of grass cattle (09:20)Sustainable practices in beef production (14:16)Goals for the future of the ranch (19:56)Advice for those thinking of starting their own ranches (23:41)Parenting and ranching (27:46)Working alongside your spouse (37:48)Aspirations for the family's involvement in the beef cattle industry (41:41)Final questions (46:25)Meet the guest: Dr. Hyatt FroboseExperienceCurrent: USA Commercial Director at Jyga Technologies; co-owner at High Bar Cattle CompanyBackgroundPh.D., Swine Management & Nutrition (Kansas State University)M.Sc., Swine Nutrition (Kansas State University)B.Sc.; Agriculture; Animal Sciences & Industry, Science Option (Kansas State University)Connect with our guest on Social Media: LinkedIn𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Bioverse- DSM

Environment challenges pose significant concerns to beef cattle producers, since weather conditions and heat stress greatly influence the well-being and productivity of these animals. Therefore, producers must know how to manage these factors to maintain the health and performance of their herds by creating optimal conditions for their cattle in a changing climate. In this episode, Dr. Warren Rusche discusses beef cattle management and production risk management, especially related to weather conditions. He also shares his knowledge on integrated crops and livestock management, as well as his experience mentoring and inspiring graduate students. “Producers are very busy and labor is hard to find. So anything we can do to help them simplify management is generally well received and helps their business be more effective.” - Dr. Warren RuscheWhat you’ll learn:Highlight (00:00)Introduction (01:02)The guest’s background (02:08)Mentoring graduate students (05:07)Environmental challenges for beef cattle (10:04)Producers' thoughts on weather conditions and heat stress (13:05)Cattle coloration and its relation to heat stress (17:23)Dealing the weather conditions with tools and knowledge (20:35)The blizzard of 2013 (25:37)Bedding conditions (30:21)Current research on silage and forage (32:33)Soybean meal as a substitute for distillers (38:36)The three final questions (45:35)Meet the guest: Dr. Warren RuscheExperienceCurrent: Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist at South Dakota State UniversityPast: Beef Feedlot Management Associate at South Dakota State UniversityBackgroundPh.D., Animal Sciences (South Dakota State University)M.Sc., Animal Science (Kansas State University)B.Sc., Animal Science (South Dakota State University)Connect with our guest on Social Media: LinkedIn𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Bioverse- DSM

In today's episode, Dr. Pedro Fontes – a researcher and professor of beef cattle production and management – discusses the importance of reproductive technologies for improving the efficiency and productivity of the beef industry. He highlights the benefits of estrus synchronization programs, pre-synchronization protocols, and Doppler ultrasounds for early pregnancy diagnosis, along with the importance of assessing the value of these technologies before adopting them in specific scenarios. Additionally, Dr. Fontes emphasizes how using synchronization protocols to optimize the breeding season is key, particularly for heifers, and delves into his team's research on the effects on sperm quality of excessive body weight gain in young sires. "The implementation of reproductive technologies has been a game changer for the beef industry in Brazil. It has been allowing for improved synchronization and AI protocol implementation, which can increase cow cycling rates and ultimately, profitability." – Dr. Pedro Fontes What you'll learn:Highlight (00:00)Introduction (01:01)Guest’s background (04:41)Brazilian vs. American beef productions: a comparison (08:59)Estrus synchronization programs in Brazil (13:24)Pre-synchronization protocols (18:18)The Doppler ultrasound revolution (19:35)The effects of excessive body weight on the reproductive performance of bulls (22:51)The value and fit of reproductive technologies for optimal results (25:39)Synchronization protocols in heifer development (27:10)Teaching and applied research on beef production (28:09)The final questions (35:00)Meet the guest: Dr. Pedro Fontes ExperienceCurrent: Assistant Professor at the University of GeorgiaBackgroundPh.D., Physiology of Reproduction (Texas A&M University)Connect with our guest on Social Media: LinkedIn𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Bioverse- DSM

In nowaday's beef industry, producing climate-friendly beef must marry with maintaining carcass quality and value. However challenging that may be, Dr. Zach Smith – an expert in animal science – believes that it is feasible through thoughtful planning and research. In this episode, he discusses the economic and environmental benefits of limit-feeding and accuracy in cattle feed, along with the complex relationship between efficiency and marbling potential. Additionally, Dr. Smith also shares his experiences with grad school and mentorship, the importance of work ethic, and some insights on the learning process, emphasizing the importance of learning from one's mistakes and the value this has for both students and mentors."We want to produce climate-friendly beef while at the same time maintaining the value of the product that we produce." - Dr. Zach Smith What you’ll learn:Highlight (00:00)Introduction (00:58)Dr. Smith's life story (03:00)The first steps of a research (10:02)Faculty roles and mentoring (14:26)Learning from errors in science (17:15)Climate-smart beef (22:28)Residual feed intake and marbling (24:17)Efficiency as a selection trait and its consequences (30:45)Efficiency in feedlot cattle (32:41)The final questions (35:17)Meet the guest: Dr. Zach SmithExperienceCurrent: Assistant Professor of Ruminant Nutrition at South Dakota State UniversityBackgroundPh.D. (Texas Tech University)M.Sc. (South Dakota State University)B.Sc. (Texas Tech University)Connect with our guest on Social Media: Instagram𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Bioverse- DSM

A technology revolution is taking place across the livestock industry. So in order to keep improving our performance, it is necessary to improve the access, communication, and implementation of such technologies. In this episode, Dr. Yijie Xiong explains how agricultural engineering and precision livestock management can play important roles within academia as well as bridge the gap between technology and its adopters.  “It is very important to do research, but I think it's even more important to make an impact with it. That means delivering a message to the people that can benefit from it at their jobs." – Dr. Yijie XiongWhat you'll learn:Highlight (00:00)Introduction (01:32)Agricultural engineering and its applications in the livestock industry (03:19)What does BSE stand for and what is its application? (09:03)Data does matters - but to whom? (12:28)What does it mean to be an effective researcher? (17:17)Differences between extension and teaching in technology (22:47)Major challenges in academia (26:59)What is precision livestock management? (30:11)Examples of technology for livestock (32:20)GPS and virtual fencing (35:30)How to communicate and show technology (43:22)Final questions (45:48)Meet the guest: Dr. Yijie XiongExperienceCurrent: Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist in Precision Livestock Management at the University of Nebraska-LincolnBackgroundPh.D., Agricultural Engineering (University of Illinois)M.Sc., Agricultural and Biological Engineering (University of Illinois)B.Sc., Agricultural Structural and Biological Engineering (China's Agricultural University)Connect with our guest on Social Media: LinkedIn; Twitter𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Bioverse- DSM

In today's episode, Dr. Allison Meyer – an Assistant Professor in the Department of Animal Science at the University of Missouri – discusses various topics related to cow-calf development. She talks about the pros and cons of calving during spring and fall, the impact of nutrient restriction on heifer development, the challenges of holistically studying cow-calf development, the current lack of knowledge about beef calf colostrum, and the need for fundamental research. Lastly, Dr. Meyer goes into some of her research findings and observations, including the effects of mobilizing fat in pregnant heifers and the potential differences in nutrient concentration between colostrum in fall and spring cows.“I have always liked applied work, and I definitely want to think about how something affects the producers or the animals themselves.” – Dr. Allison MeyerWhat you'll learn:Highlight (00:00)Introduction (01:00) Beef cows and the different seasons for calving (03:23) The pros and cons of fall and spring calving (07:17) Colostrum of beef cows (12:41) Nutrient restriction and its impact on colostrum (19:50) Nutrient restriction experiments and fundamental research (27:08) The ability of mama cows to mobilize resources (36:36) The future of the cow-calf research (39:59) The development of heifers (47:38) The final questions (55:39)Meet the guest:Dr. Allison MeyerExperienceCurrent: Associate Professor at the University of MissouriPast: Assistant Professor at the University of WyomingBackgroundPh.D. (North Dakota State University)M.Sc. (University of Missouri)B.Sc. (Michigan State University) Connect with our guest on Social Media: LinkedIn𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Bioverse- DSM

Extensionists play a crucial role in the development of beef cattle production. This episode features one of the best: Travis Meteer – a beef cattle extension specialist – shares his journey and insights. He emphasizes the importance of personalized decision-making that considers the specific context of each operation before introducing management changes, as well as explains the benefits and drawbacks of the innovative techniques he promotes in the Midwest. Join us for this enlightening conversation on the pivotal role of extensionists and the impact of novel management strategies on the beef cattle industry.“I have learned that there is not a single prescription, so you do have to address every situation as a unique one in order to understand its unique challenge and provide a new solution for it.” - Travis Meteer What you'll learn:Highlight (00:00)Introduction (01:00)Family background and childhood experience near livestock (06:26)Prescription agriculture (10:50)Listen, understand, and how learn from others (15:40)Small pasture Midwest production (18:28)Rotational grazing (22:41)Cornstock grazing and alternatives to feed beef cattle and get the value of it (28:36)Semi confinement, benefits and drawbacks (36:05)Opportunity for cover crops (44:00)The final questions (45:26)Meet the guest: Travis Meteer ExperienceCurrent: Beef Extension Educator for University of Illinois ExtensionBackgroundM.Sc., Ruminant Nutrition (University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign)B.Sc. Animal Sciences (University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign)Connect with our guest on Social Media: LinkedIn𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Bioverse- DSM

The lack of water availability from the Ogallala Aquifer, particularly in the portion that goes down the Texas Panhandle and the southern part of New Mexico, has been leading to certain limitations for the beef production systems in the region. With that in mind, looking for forage alternatives that could thrive with lower water availability is one of the main research goals of Dr. Glenn Duff’s program, as he is searching for certain breeds of cattle with better adaptability for such an environment. In this episode, Dr. Duff explains some details of those two alternatives. Also, he goes into the topic of receiving cattle: from metaphylaxis, as well as the importance and implications of beef and dairy crosses along with their relation to liver abscesses, to other health issues. “There are a lot of things we can do – but not a lot of places doing calf research.” – Dr. Glenn DuffWhat you'll learn:Highlight (00:00)Introduction (00:55)The background of the invited speaker (03:26)Getting to know the area and place where Dr. Duff works (06:29)Alternative forages for water limitations (11:03)Heritage breeds and Criollo cattle in the fight against water limitations (13:24)Metaphylaxis in newly received calves (17:32)The risks associated with newly received calves (20:33)Nutritional strategies on arrival (25:44)Liver abscesses and their impacts (31:04)Dairy crosses and their implications for the beef industry (32:13)The health of dairy crosses (39:49)Final questions (45:55)Meet the guest:Dr. Glenn DuffExperienceCurrent: Professor/Superintendent at Clayton Livestock Research Center, New Mexico State UniversityBackgroundPh.D., Animal Nutrition (New Mexico State University)M.S., Animal Physiology (University of Arkansas)B.S., Animal Science and Dairy Science (Northwest Missouri State University)𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Bioverse- DSM

We can only move forward as a strong industry when beef producers, veterinarians, nutritionists, students, professors, government officials, and everyone else involved in our production chain are connected and in constant communication. When it comes down to putting those pieces together, there are few people who have as much experience as Dr. Dan Thomson. He is an internationally recognized leader in animal welfare, beef cattle production, and cattle health management, having played a part, directly or otherwise, in the education of many of the professionals in our industry. In this episode, we are pleased to hear Dr. Thomson's insights about animal welfare education, his experience as the host of Doc Talk, and his excellent advice to our next generation of professionals. “When we talk about sustainability, it's about more than saving the planet. It's about figuring out what we can do together to keep the industry moving forward and keep people and families in the business.” – Dr. Dan ThomsonWhat you'll learn:Highlight (00:00)Introduction (01:24)Background (02:46)Animal welfare education and advocacy (09:04)Work on Doc Talk on RFD-TV (17:35)Animal production consultation (27:24)Experience with working with students (37:35)Great advice to students (44:21)Final questions (50:39)Meet the guest:Dr. Dan ThomsonExperienceProfessor and Chair of the Department of Animal Science at Iowa State UniversityOwner/Partner at PAC Veterinary and Research ServicesFounder and Owner of Doc Talk on RFD-TVFeedlock veterinarianBackgroundPh.D., Ruminant Nutrition (Texas Tech University)M.Sc., Ruminant Nutrition (South Dakota State University)B.Sc., Animal Sciences and D.V.M. (Iowa State University)𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.The Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Bioverse- DSM