
Ranching Reboot
Ranching Reboot is your go-to podcast for innovative farming practices and regenerative agriculture. We bring fresh stories from today's progressive farmers, ranchers, and food producers, highlighting new ideas and time-tested wisdom. Join host Brian Alexander as we challenge conventional thinking, explore sustainable farming, and strive to reboot our food system for a healthier planet. Tune in for weekly inspiration and insights in agriculture.
Reboot your thinking about farming, ranching, food systems and the people that operate them!
Latest episodes

May 13, 2024 • 1h 55min
#166 John Rhodes Regenerative Ranching: Burning Brightly toward Sustainability
This podcast features discussions around regenerative
agriculture, custom grazing, and sustainable farming practices, emphasizing the
challenges and opportunities in modern farming. Host Brian Alexander, alongside
guests such as John Rhodes, explores topics including the intricacies of
starting and diversifying a family farm, the role of technology in agriculture,
and the ecological impacts of regenerative practices such as the use of dung
beetles and prescribed burns. The conversations shed light on critical issues
like the shortage of labor, land conversion, livestock management without
pharmaceuticals, and the importance of community in overcoming these
challenges. Additionally, the dialogue offers insights into the positive
effects of regenerative farming on land health, carbon sequestration, animal
welfare, and agricultural sustainability, stressing the need for more education
and community involvement in practices like prescribed burns for effective land
management.
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May 6, 2024 • 1h 52min
#165 Dale Strickler "Harvesting Hope: Transforming Agriculture through Regenerative Practices"
This script provides a comprehensive exploration into
regenerative agriculture, the historical and present-day challenges of farming
practices, and their broader implications on climate and environmental
sustainability. Hosted by Red Hills Rancher, discussions include insights from
Dale Strickler, an expert in agriculture, diving into topics such as soil
health, crop subsidies, and land management. It critically examines the impact
of agricultural policies like subsidies and insurance on farming diversity and
practices, and the ecological consequences of 'death farming'. Furthermore, the
script covers the potential of regenerative techniques and diversified
livestock systems, like incorporating goats to combat invasive species, and how
these practices contribute to making farms drought-resilient and restoring soil
health. Insights on government initiatives like the Conservation Reserve
Program (CRP) and the transition challenges from CRP lands back to crop farming
are also discussed. Additionally, the script touches on the partnership with
LandTrust and the inception of LandTrust Plus for enhancing recreational access
to lands, alongside the implications of recreational activities on these
environments.
Regenerative Wisdom Website
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Apr 29, 2024 • 1h 56min
#164 Bob Kinford, Pt 2
In episode 164 of the Ranching Reboot podcast, we delve deep
into the intricate world of ranching, exploring topics from regenerative
grazing to the impacts of technology on agriculture. This episode, featuring
notable guest speakers and deep discussions on pressing issues, offers valuable
insights and raises critical questions about the future of ranching and
agricultural practices.
**Navigating Complexities in Farm Management and Grazing
Techniques**
The episode kicks off with a conversation on the challenges
and nuances of farm management, touching upon the concept of regenerative
grazing. Guests discuss the importance of understanding local ecosystems and
adapting grazing systems to various environments, emphasizing the dangers of a
one-size-fits-all approach. The dialogue also covers historical grazing
patterns, the roles of different agencies, and the critical need for
biodiversity to sustain healthy agroecosystems.
**The Role of Technology in Modern Agriculture**
As the conversation shifts towards technology, the podcast
highlights both the opportunities and pitfalls that modern innovations present.
While technology, including GPS collars and data analytics, can enhance grazing
management and farm operations, it raises concerns about reducing physical
engagement with the land and animals. The episode thoughtfully examines how
reliance on technology might affect traditional ranching knowledge and
practices, urging listeners to find a balance between utilizing technological
tools and maintaining a hands-on approach to ranch management.
**Challenging Conventional Wisdom and Legal Landscapes**
A significant portion of the discussion critiques
conventional wisdom passed down through generations and supported by
institutional education. By questioning long-held beliefs and the integrity of
scientific research, the podcast encourages critical thinking and
open-mindedness in addressing contemporary ranching challenges. Furthermore, it
takes a critical look at the legal and ethical considerations impacting the
ranching community, from property rights to the implications of bankruptcy laws
on farmers and ranchers.
**Contemplating the Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
and Digital Manipulation**
In a compelling segment, the conversation pivots to the
potential dangers and ethical dilemmas presented by AI and digital
technologies. From deepfakes to data privacy, the episode explores how
advancements in AI might transform not only ranching but society at large. The
dialogue prompts listeners to consider the implications of relying heavily on
AI for decision-making, highlighting the risks of diminished human interaction
and the loss of personal agency.
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Apr 22, 2024 • 1h 9min
#163 Exploring Sustainable Land Management and Livestock Handling Techniques with Bob Kinford
This episode delves into sustainable land management through
the lens of LandTrust, a company sponsoring the podcast, focusing on connecting
landowners with outdoor enthusiasts to promote the enjoyment and sustainability
of America's private lands. The discussion transitions into an extensive
dialogue with Bob Kinford, covering a range of topics from experimental
ranching practices to livestock handling techniques. Bob shares insights on the
benefits of grazing management, the nuances of stockmanship, and broad
philosophical musings on humanity's relationship with nature and technology.
The conversation also touches on challenges and solutions in agriculture,
including hydroponics, urban farming, and the potential for technology to
enhance sustainable practices. The episode emphasizes the importance of
observation, adaptability, and a deeper understanding of natural processes in
both land management and livestock handling.
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Apr 15, 2024 • 1h 50min
#162 Tyler Tobald, Rural Reawakening: Law Enforcement Meets Regenerative Agriculture
This expansive conversation explores the multifaceted
experiences of rural life, particularly through the lens of law enforcement and agriculture. Tyler, a former deputy, shares his journey in the field, from farming preparations to the critical role of law enforcement in rural communities, encountering challenges such as drug interdiction, the complexity of case law, and the practicalities of ensuring public safety. The discussion
delves into the rural law enforcement's struggles with limited resources, the impact of drugs like methamphetamine and fentanyl on communities, and the
government's interventions in agriculture through electronic ID tags for cattle. Furthermore, it touches on civil asset forfeiture, the dangers posed by substances like fentanyl, and highlights regenerative farming practices as a beacon of hope for sustainable agriculture. The narrative weaves together the personal anecdotes and professional insights of a former deputy with broader discussions on policy, community health, and agricultural practices, providing a rich tapestry of the challenges and successes faced by those living and working in rural America.
JTAC Farms Instagram
JTAC FaceBook
JTAC TikTok
JTAC YouTube
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Apr 8, 2024 • 1h 37min
#161 The Future of Farming: Innovation, Sustainability, and Consumer Impact with Ali Cox
Ali Cox is an agriculture and food ingredient marketing
visionary and founder of
Noble West, an award-winning marketing consultancy that
specializes in the entire agricultural ecosystem. From fresh produce and nuts to
dairy and agTech, Noble West works in all aspects of agriculture.
As a fifth generation farmer, Cox returned home to
California’s Central Valley in 2007 with the singular goal of making
world-class marketing services available to the abundance of farmers and
growers in the area. A fierce advocate for farmers, Ali’s blend of a deep
personal connection to the land and business acumen has made her a highly
sought after strategist by her clients. With an eye on the future of farming
and the climate crisis, Cox regularly consults with her clients on upcycling,
regenerative water use, and hydroponic & organic farming practices.
Cox was a walk-on rower at the University of San Diego and
went on to win a Silver Medal in the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. A Turlock
native, she is a graduate of Turlock Senior High School and University of San
Diego where she majored in Communications and minored in business. She happily
purchased her childhood home where she resides with husband Tony and their two
sons.
www.wearenoblewest.com www.instagram.com/alicox.ceohttps://linkedin.com/in/alicox
This episode embarks on an in-depth exploration of the
agricultural industry, focusing on the transition towards regenerative and
sustainable farming practices amidst the challenge of significant retail
influence. It highlights innovative initiatives like LandTrust for connecting
communities and Walmart’s Project Gigaton for sustainability. The conversation
covers the impact of big retail players on local economies and small
businesses, while also recognizing their role in shaping consumer behavior and farming
practices. Through discussions on the importance of biodiversity, nutritional
food access, and the true cost of food production, the episode investigates the
economic, environmental, and social factors driving the evolution of
agriculture. It puts a strong emphasis on the need for marketing and consumer
insights to align farming closer with consumer demands, aiming for a future
where farming is environmentally responsible, economically viable, and socially
beneficial.
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Apr 1, 2024 • 1h 25min
#160 Daila Monterroso From Coop to Community: Chickens as a Bridge to a Better World
From Hollywood to Chickenlandia: A Journey of Sustainability and Hope
In an episode of the Ranching Reboot podcast, Dahlia Monterosso, the President of Chickenlandia, shares her transformative journey from an aspiring filmmaker in Hollywood to a backyard chicken educator. She highlights the therapeutic benefits of chicken keeping, emphasizing its ability to reconnect people with nature, support sustainable living, and critique modern farming practices. Monterosso advocates for chicken keeping's accessibility, its community-building capacity, and its role in personal and environmental health. Additionally, amidst discussions of hope in the face of global anxieties, the episode includes a light-hearted segment where the number of chickens in various forms is counted, reaching a total of thirteen. The episode wraps up with a hopeful outlook on the future and the potential for further enriching conversations.
Chickenlandia Website
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0:00 160 Daila Monterroso From Coop to Community: Chickens as a Bridge to a Better World
01:35 A Chilly Morning and Tech Upgrades
03:14 The Unexpected Journey from Filmmaker to Chicken Educator
06:20 The Transformative Power of Chickens
07:13 Exploring the Roots and Global Impact of Chicken Keeping
11:47 The Philosophy of Natural Chicken Keeping
15:00 Challenging Modern Chicken Keeping and Factory Farming
19:49 The Vision of Community Chickens and Urban Agriculture
30:10 Reflecting on Personal Growth and Global Change Through Chickens
40:34 Chickens as Catalysts for Healing and World Change
43:37 The Joy of Chicken Watching
45:01 Finding Peace with Chickens: A Personal Journey
46:08 The Universal Language of Chicken Keeping
47:32 Chickens and Biodiversity: Beyond the Backyard
47:53 The Role of Chickens in Agriculture and Ecosystems
49:15 Rescuing Chickens: A Personal Mission
50:09 The Reality of Predators and Chicken Keeping
50:40 Natural Chicken Keeping and Ecosystem Health
53:21 Challenging Factory Farming Practices
56:13 The Importance of Soil Health in Agriculture
57:23 Chickens as Ecosystem Engineers
01:01:42 Choosing the Right Chicken Breed
01:05:27 Mindful Chicken Keeping: Starting with the Basics
01:09:27 The Evolution and Domestication of Chickens
01:14:22 Navigating the Food System and Consumer Choices
01:18:55 Connecting with the Chickenlandia Community
01:22:21 Final Thoughts: Hope and Chicken Keeping

Mar 25, 2024 • 2h 19min
#159 Sustainability and Innovation: The Guardian Grains Approach to Modern Farming with DeAnna and Kelly Lozensky
In an engaging episode of the Ranching Reboot podcast, host Brian Alexander invites Kelly and Dana Lozensky from Guardian Grains to share their transformative journey in agriculture. Shifting from conventional farming
to a biological model, they emphasize soil health, conservation, and a direct-to-consumer approach. This episode illuminates the pitfalls of modern agricultural processing, especially concerning enriched flour, and advocates for the nutritional and environmental merits of whole grains and minimally processed foods. By adopting no-till farming, crop diversification, and focusing on soil vitality, Guardian Grains not only achieves sustainability and profitability but also strengthens community bonds through healthier food options. Delving into their venture into heritage, stone-milled pasta and flour, the discussion underscores the importance of transparency, chemical-free products, and the need for a paradigm shift in food production and consumption towards holistic community nourishment.
Guardian Grains website! Use Coupon code "REBOOT" for 20% your order, except Mock Mills!
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Mar 18, 2024 • 1h 59min
#158 Hobbs M, a discussion about Ecology vs Economy
This script combines insights from Brian Alexander's
exploration of societal disconnection from agriculture, the integration of sportsmanship and agritourism, and advocacy for eco-conscious direct consumer relationships during a Ranching Reboot Podcast episode. It examines the decline in U.S. cattle numbers, the correlation with oil production, and the socio-economic, environmental implications of current ranching methods.
Emphasizing the need for a regenerative approach to agriculture, it reflects on personal and societal responsibilities towards sustainability. Additionally, it
addresses the challenges in the American beef industry, the importance of community, identity, and regulatory impacts on housing and agriculture.
Concluding with personal reflections on ranching, parenting, and finding joy amidst global insecurities, it underlines the critical intersection of agricultural practices, economy, and societal shifts towards a sustainable future.
00:00 Welcome to the Ranching Reboot Podcast
00:12 Hawaii Trip and Modern Society's Disconnection
00:19 Sponsorship Shoutouts: Land Trust and Wild Ass Soap
Company
01:58 Upcoming Events and Expos
02:49 Regenerative Agriculture and Personal Anecdotes
15:10 Deep Dive into Ecology, Economy, and Agriculture
33:24 The New American Dream: Homesteading and Living Abroad
37:55 Exploring Hawaii's Homelessness and Real Estate Crisis
40:00 The Impact of Remote Work on Local Communities
41:36 Luxury Beliefs and Their Consequences on Society
43:46 The Dilemma of Mainland Money in Hawaii
47:13 Regulations and Their Impact on Housing in Hawaii
58:05 Community, Culture, and the Challenge of Integration
01:01:54 Rethinking Community and Self-Sufficiency
01:15:30 The Future of the Cattle Industry and Sustainable
Practices
01:19:11 Exploring the Challenges of Increasing Cattle
Supply
01:19:55 The Need for a National Increase in Cattle Through
Importing Females
01:20:14 Debunking the Myth of Producing More Beef with
Fewer Cattle
01:21:13 The Unsustainability of Bigger, Fatter Cattle for
More Beef
01:21:32 Rethinking Ranching: A Call for Genetic and
Nutritional Adaptation
01:22:28 The Socio-Civilizational Shift Towards Sustainable
Ranching
01:23:19 The Future of American Beef: Seeking Sustainable
Solutions
01:24:45 The Role of Energy in Agriculture and Its Impact on
Cattle Production
01:26:47 Exploring the Relationship Between Hydrocarbon
Production and Cattle Numbers
01:27:58 The Regenerative Transition: A Path to Increasing
Cattle Numbers?
01:31:46 The Potential for a Ranching Migration and the
Search for Stability
01:32:26 Navigating the Complexities of Ranching and
Property Rights
01:46:56 Social Media's Impact on Society and Individual
Lives
01:53:55 Finding Balance: Ambition, Enjoyment, and Family
Life
01:57:20 Wrapping Up: A Journey Through Ranching, Society,
and Personal Reflections
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Mar 11, 2024 • 1h 53min
#157 Steve Swaffer Recovery after a WildFire, management concerns.
This episode explores the multifaceted approach to ranchland
management and wildfire mitigation, focusing on the benefits of prescribed
burns and regenerative ranching techniques. Host Brian Alexander, alongside
natural resources expert and regenerative ranching advisor Steve Swaffer,
delves into the aftermath of wildfires in the Texas Panhandle, the ecological
and communal impacts of fire, and the historical and innovative strategies for
land recovery and ecosystem health. The discussions emphasize the role of Burn
Associations, the effects of invasive species, and the importance of community
education and involvement in re-establishing a fire culture. Furthermore, the
episode addresses the challenges of regulatory mandates on animal tracking and
highlights the need for a balanced approach to protect producers and consumers,
concluding with the potential of educational initiatives for a sustainable
ranching future.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back
00:58 Sponsor Spotlight: Land Trust
03:18 Discussing Recent Fires in Texas
04:47 Guest Introduction: Steve Swafford
05:42 Regenerative Agriculture Concepts
09:03 The Impact of Feral Hogs on Land
15:07 The Threat of Invasive Vegetation
18:08 The Aftermath of Wildfires
24:32 The Role of Fire in Land Management
35:08 Recovery and Renewal After a Fire
48:45 The Importance of Grazing Planning
59:11 Rebuilding After a Fire: A New Perspective
01:00:37 The Double Meaning of a Clean Slate
01:01:14 The Impact of Infrastructure Changes on Farming
01:01:31 Unforeseen Opportunities in the Aftermath of
Destruction
01:02:32 The Increasing Frequency of Mega Fires
01:03:57 The Role of Land Management in Wildfire Danger
01:06:21 The Importance of Fire Education and Culture
01:07:46 The Challenge of Maintaining Fire Control
01:09:10 The Dilemma of Burn Prioritization
01:10:06 The Impact of Cedar Tree Propagation on Fire
Management
01:11:53 The Economic Implications of Fire Management
01:19:43 The Role of Government and Industry in Fire
Management
01:21:30 The Importance of Community in Fire Management
01:24:15 The Future of Fire Management and Regenerative
Ranching
Noble.org Courses
Steve on Linkedin
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