Shooting The Bull: Episode 3 Preview

What does “proven” really mean in the cattle industry?

In this preview, Patrick Powers sits down with John Atkinson and Grant Vassberg to pull apart one of the most overused and misleading terms in the business. From herds with 900-day calving intervals still being sold as “elite,” to bulls kept marketable with 30 pounds of grain a day, they call out the marketing spin that hides real-world performance.

They dig into how less fertile bulls can actually bring higher semen prices, why terminal vs. maternal genetics is not as simple as it’s sold, and how exported genetics fail in environments without America’s feed store safety net.

To finish the episode, follow us on Patreon:
 patreon.com/bossirestalk

Question the noise. Trust the land. Don’t breed nonsense.

Episode 15: French Cattle. American Truth. with Scott Fredrickson & Matt Henley

When two cattlemen from opposite corners of the country—Scott Fredrickson in Montana and Matt Henley in North Carolina—land on the same obscure French cattle line without ever comparing notes, it raises eyebrows. But when those cattle quietly outperform mainstream genetics in both programs, you start paying attention.

In this episode, Scott and Matt join host Patrick Powers to reveal how the little-known Aubrac cattle from France are quietly making their mark across dramatically different environments.

These moderate-framed, efficient cattle from France's mountainous Massif Central region were bred for generations to thrive on grass alone in large herds. The result is animals with exceptional maternal traits, fleshing ability, and adaptability. While the commercial cattle industry chased frame size and visual appeal, these breeders focused on what truly matters: animals that stay healthy, breed back consistently, and convert forage efficiently with minimal human intervention.

The conversation reveals fascinating insights about what makes these genetics special. Their metabolic efficiency allows them to maintain condition even under challenging management. When used in crossbreeding, they consistently produce outstanding females that instinctively excel as mothers. Plus, they carry the "profit gene," a myostatin variant that increases retail yield by 30 percent without compromising fertility.

What’s particularly compelling is how testing validates their real-world observations. Promo-gen testing shows exceptional immune function. Tenet certification rates exceed 90 percent, compared to industry averages of just 3 to 6 percent. A2 milk testing also confirms superior nutritional benefits.

Beyond just discussing a specific breed, this episode challenges conventional cattle industry wisdom. These producers argue that success comes not from chasing EPDs or following trends, but from selecting animals that work in your specific environment with minimal inputs. Their philosophy reflects the regenerative approach: improving land while requiring fewer resources.

Whether you're rethinking your breeding program, interested in heritage genetics, or simply curious about alternative approaches to cattle raising, this conversation offers valuable insights into what truly matters for sustainable, profitable ranching.

Connect with Scott Fredrickson and Matt Henley:

Scott’s Bos Sire page: https://www.bossires.com/fredrickson-ranch

Matt's Website: https://peedeepremium.eatfromfarms.com/

Matt's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PeeDeePremium

Aubrac Breed Info: https://aubrac.ie/aboutaubracs/

Check out Bos Sires:

Website: https://www.bossires.com/

Bos Sires Catalog: International New Bos Sires Catalog (English)

Support the Podcast

If these conversations are helping you think differently about cattle breeding and land stewardship, be sure to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes.

To go deeper, join us on Patreon-where we host Shooting the Bull, our unfiltered podcast focused on honest conversations with producers from across the cattle industry.

Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk

 Episode 14: Timeless Cattle in a Trend-Driven World with Mark DeBoo 

"Cattle have to earn their keep." That straightforward philosophy has guided three generations of the DeBoo family at Diamond D Angus in Montana, were function trumps fads and longevity reigns supreme. Mark DeBoo joins us to share how his family's no-nonsense approach to cattle breeding has created extraordinary resilience in their herd.

In an industry increasingly dominated by extreme traits and eye-catching EPD numbers, Diamond D stands apart. Their cattle development program strips away every "crutch" - no grain finishing, no supplements, no parasite medications - revealing the true genetic value beneath. When a Diamond D bull maintains condition during breeding season or a cow remains productive for 15+ years (their record is 22!), it's pure genetics at work, not management tricks.

What makes this approach remarkable isn't just the principle - it's the results. Diamond D offers something almost unheard of in the industry: a foot guarantee on their bulls. They can make this bold promise because they've eliminated every non-genetic variable through their forage-only development system. When feet hold up for decades in rugged Montana conditions without grain or supplements, you know you've found something special.

Beyond genetics, Mark shares how Diamond D has embraced regenerative grazing through daily cattle moves and eliminated conventional parasite treatments entirely. These practices not only improve soil health but create more resilient animals. As Mark says, "What made a good cow in 1970 will still make a good cow today" - a timeless reminder that beneath all the industry trends, the fundamentals of good cattle haven't changed.

Connect with Mark DeBoo and Diamond D Angus:

Website: https://www.diamonddangus.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100054606183356

Bos Sires: https://www.bossires.com/diamonddangus

Check out Bos Sires:

Website: https://www.bossires.com/

Bos Sires Catalog: International New Bos Sires Catalog (English)

Support the Podcast

If these conversations are helping you think differently about cattle breeding and land stewardship, be sure to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes.

To go deeper, join us on Patreon-where we host Shooting the Bull, our unfiltered podcast focused on honest conversations with producers from across the cattle industry.

Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk

Episode 13: Sell Truth, Not Hype with John Atkinson

A candid conversation with Australian cattleman John Atkinson reveals profound insights about the cattle industry's struggle with honesty, fertility, and sustainable breeding practices. Since our last conversation, John's operation has secured a milestone export deal to Africa, not through slick marketing, but through straightforward communication about which genetics would actually work for the buyer's environment.

The episode confronts uncomfortable truths about how newcomers are frequently exploited in the cattle business. "I feel really sorry for new people into the industry," John remarks, "because they naively trust people, they get so taken advantage of." This exploitation often leads to costly failures when producers invest in cattle with impressive appearances but poor functional traits. John and Patrick discuss how the pursuit of show ring aesthetics and extreme growth has undermined the fundamental fertility that determines ranch profitability.

One standout moment comes when John describes a respected Australian veterinarian who recently spoke out about the crisis of infertility in northern Australian herds, where many producers have simply accepted that their expensive cattle will only produce a calf every two years. Meanwhile, John's own operation achieved 80%+ pregnancy rates in just two months of breeding, proving that fertility-focused genetics deliver results even in challenging environments.

The conversation takes fascinating turns into innovations emerging from Australia's high labor costs, including automated weighing systems that allow producers to monitor weight gain in real-time and make smarter decisions about pasture rotation. John also makes a compelling case for crossbreeding, explaining how strategic breed combinations can correct functional problems in just one generation.

Perhaps most powerful is John's reflection on the moral obligations of cattlemen: "We are the biggest animal rights advocates there are. We just don't voice it. We live it every day." His message for listeners considering bull purchases this season? Research the maternal lines, look beyond the sale catalog photos, and understand what you're really bringing into your herd for generations to come.

Connect with John Atkinson:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cashmeredroughtmasters

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cashmeredroughtmasters/

Bos Sires: https://www.bossires.com/john-atkinson

Check out Bos Sires:

Website: https://www.bossires.com/

Bos Sires Catalog: International New Bos Sires Catalog (English)

Support the Podcast

If these conversations are helping you think differently about cattle breeding and land stewardship, be sure to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes.

To go deeper, join us on Patreon-where we host Shooting the Bull, our unfiltered podcast focused on honest conversations with producers from across the cattle industry.

Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk

Shooting The Bull: Episode 2 Preview

Not everything worth knowing comes with a data sheet.

In this episode, Patrick Powers is joined once again by John Atkinson of Australia, and Kansas cattleman Darris Meitler, for a conversation about the kind of cattle that last. They don’t chase trends, they watch cows. They visit herds. They ask the right questions before ever looking at an EPD.

From moderate frames to maternal consistency, they unpack what separates functional cattle from the ones propped up by feed buckets and photo shoots. And they don’t hold back when it comes to calling out the bulls that fall apart after one breeding season.

To finish the episode, follow us on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk

Question the noise. Trust the land. Don’t breed nonsense.

Episode 12: It's About the How, Not the Cow with Bogs Peralta

What if everything we've been taught about cattle breeding is wrong? In this eye-opening conversation with Filipino cattleman Bogs Peralta, we explore how conventional wisdom about "bigger is better" has led ranchers astray across the globe.

From the lush tropical landscapes of the Philippines emerges a story that will resonate with ranchers worldwide. Peralta, a third-generation cattle producer, shares his journey from fighting against nature to working with it through regenerative grazing and adapted genetics. After years of struggling with show-type Brahman cattle that looked impressive but performed poorly, Peralta made a radical shift toward moderate-framed, fertile cattle that thrive on forage alone.

The challenges he describes are strikingly familiar - reproductive inefficiency, high input costs, and genetics ill-suited to local conditions. Peralta reveals that 90% of Philippine cattle calve at painfully inefficient intervals, with many not producing their first calf until three or four years old. This isn't just an economic problem; it's contributing to food insecurity in a nation of 110 million people.

Through resources like "Man, Cattle & Veld" and connections with like-minded ranchers, Peralta discovered that the solution wasn't more inputs - it was better-adapted cattle. His shift toward native Philippine cattle genetics blended with adaptable imported breeds has yielded remarkable results: earlier maturity, consistent calving, fewer difficult births, and better performance on grass.

Peralta's powerful insight that "it's the how, not the cow" challenges us to rethink our priorities. Rather than selecting for trending traits, he advocates focusing on what truly matters: fertility, efficiency, and adaptability. This approach not only improves profitability but also addresses critical food security challenges.

Ready to challenge conventional wisdom in your own operation? Join us as we explore how returning to nature-aligned principles might be the most revolutionary path forward for cattle producers everywhere.

Connect with Bogs Peralta:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/balungaointegratedfarm

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/balungaointegratedfarm/

Check out Bos Sires:

Website: https://www.bossires.com/

Bos Sires Catalog: International New Bos Sires Catalog (English)

Support the Podcast

If you enjoy the show and want to support our mission of restoring sustainable, long-lasting genetics to the cattle industry, consider joining our Patreon community. Your support helps us continue producing valuable content for ranchers and cattle enthusiasts worldwide.

Join us on Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk]

Shooting The Bull: Episode 1 Preview

Something feels off, and veteran cattlemen can see it a mile away.

In this preview of our debut episode of Shooting The Bull, host Patrick Powers sits down with Grant Vassberg and Australian breeder John Atkinson to expose the red flags that reveal a breeding program built on marketing, not function.

From donor cows that never calve to surrogates doing the real work, this is the kind of straight talk you won’t hear in the show ring.

To finish the episode, follow us on Patreon:
patreon.com/bossirestalk

Question the noise. Trust the land. Don’t breed nonsense.

Episode 11: Wrong Background, Right Results with Jesse Colón

What happens when a California city boy inherits his father's struggling cattle ranch in Mexico? For Jesse Colón, it became the unlikely beginning of a regenerative ranching revolution in the semi-desert of Zacatecas.

Jesse's story is a powerful reminder that sometimes the most innovative paths forward begin with honoring what came before. When faced with his father's deteriorating health and a ranch that had become a financial "money pit," Jesse made a pivotal decision to learn everything he could about making the operation viable—not just as a business, but as a living tribute to his father's dream.

The journey took him deep into the world of regenerative agriculture, where he discovered that the conventional, large-framed cattle genetics that dominated the region were fundamentally mismatched to the harsh local environment. Through trial and error, Jesse transformed the ranch using high-density grazing with electric fencing and by transitioning to smaller-framed, regionally-adapted cattle. The results speak for themselves: improved soil health, greater plant diversity, extended grazing periods, and most impressively, cows that can consistently produce a calf every year—something local conventional ranchers consider impossible.

What makes Jesse's perspective particularly valuable is his willingness to challenge established practices while maintaining deep respect for traditional wisdom. He's become a bridge between worlds—documenting his journey on YouTube to 20,000 Spanish-speaking subscribers and now serving as a Bos Sires distributor for Mexico. His mission is clear: highlight "legacy breeders" who have consistently selected for practical traits like fertility over fashionable traits, and make those genetics available to ranchers searching for sustainable solutions.

Explore more of Jesse’s work and see how he's proving the power of practical genetics in one of Mexico’s toughest ranching environments—through the links in our show notes. And don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with ranchers who are rewriting the rules of sustainable cattle production.

Connect with Jesse Colón and Rancho Cinco Talentos:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCADO6875jXhcloWZxYoM4EQ

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RanchoCincoTalentos

Bos Sires: https://www.bossires.com/jesse-colon

Check out Bos Sires:

Website: https://www.bossires.com/

Bos Sires Catalog: International New Bos Sires Catalog (English)

Support the Podcast

If you enjoy the show and want to support our mission of restoring sustainable, long-lasting genetics to the cattle industry, consider joining our Patreon community. Your support helps us continue producing valuable content for ranchers and cattle enthusiasts worldwide.

Join us on Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk]

Episode 10: Let the Cows Do the Work: Durability Over Dependency with Arron Nerbas

Arron Nerbas of Nerbas Bros Angus challenges mainstream cattle breeding philosophies by creating a herd built on durability rather than dependency. This third-generation Canadian cattleman shares how his family transformed their operation by focusing on three fundamentals: grass, pressure, and purpose.

The conversation reveals a refreshing alternative to trend-chasing in the cattle industry. Arron explains how they've developed genetics specifically adapted to their environment without introducing any live cattle since 1999, relying solely on AI for genetic improvement. Their breeding philosophy prioritizes maternal traits over the extreme growth that has dominated the industry for decades – creating moderate-framed, fertile cattle that require minimal intervention.

"A good cow is a cow that doesn't need me," Arron explains, highlighting their commitment to letting cattle express their natural abilities without constant human support. This approach has yielded cows that calve unassisted on stockpiled grass, maintain fertility, and demonstrate exceptional longevity in their herd.

The discussion explores four key strategies for herd improvement: AI sire selection, replacement selection, system pressure through management, and strict culling protocols. Arron also shares insights on the benefits of multi-sire breeding, which enhances both land management and reproductive efficiency by allowing natural competition among bulls.

What started as a local approach to better ranching has gained international attention. Nerbas Bros now exports genetics to the UK, with interest coming from as far away as Romania and Botswana. Closer to home, Arron also shares how they’re challenging convention with a self-serve, automated beef market—offering direct-to-consumer sales without middlemen.

This episode offers valuable perspective for anyone questioning industrial cattle production models. As input costs continue rising worldwide, the Nerbas Bros approach demonstrates that focusing on land-adapted, low-maintenance cattle might not just be more sustainable – it might be the economic future of ranching.

Explore more of Arron’s work and learn how the Nerbas Bros are building cattle that thrive where others fail—through the links in our show notes. And don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with ranchers who are rewriting the rules of sustainable cattle production. 

Connect with Arron and Nerbas Bros Angus:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NerbasBrosAngus/ 

Website: https://www.nerbasbrosangus.com/

Bos Sires: https://www.bossires.com/nerbas-brothers

X page: https://x.com/nerbasbrosangus

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theebutcheryonmain/#

Check out Bos Sires:

Website: https://www.bossires.com/

Bos Sires Catalog: International New Bos Sires Catalog (English)

Support the Podcast

If you enjoy the show and want to support our mission of restoring sustainable, long-lasting genetics to the cattle industry, consider joining our Patreon community. Your support helps us continue producing valuable content for ranchers and cattle enthusiasts worldwide.

Join us on Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk]

Episode 9: Fat Cows, Fat Soil, Fat Wallet: Real Wealth Ranching with Jim Elizondo

Regenerative agriculture expert Jim Elizondo reveals the profound connection between cattle genetics and land health in this transformative episode. Drawing from his diverse expertise as an accountant, dairy nutritionist, and agronomy engineer, Elizondo shares how modern cattle selection has inadvertently led to degraded soils and increased dependence on costly inputs.

The conversation explores Elizondo's revolutionary Total Grazing Program, which mimics natural grazing patterns from 50,000 years ago when diverse herbivores maintained healthy ecosystems. By selecting for early-maturing, efficient cattle that can perform non-selective grazing, ranchers can dramatically increase their stocking rates while simultaneously improving soil health. "Usually we can double the stocking rate the first year," Elizondo explains, highlighting the immediate economic benefit.

One of the most compelling insights is Elizondo's "screwdriver test" for soil health. When a screwdriver hits a hard pan just inches below the surface, it reveals the damage caused by selective grazing. The solution lies not just in changing management, but in transitioning to cattle genetics that thrive without requiring excessive inputs or specialized grazing patterns.

The episode clearly articulates Elizondo's four pillars of Real Wealth Ranching: the Total Grazing Program, adapted genetics selection, nutrition when grazing, and optimal calving season. Together, these principles create what he calls the "fat grass, fat soil, fat cattle, fat wallet" progression that leads to true ranching wealth—defined as having money, time, and health.

Ready to break through the hard pan holding back your operation's potential? Discover how adapted genetics combined with proper grazing management can revolutionize your ranch. 

Connect with Jim Elizondo and Real Wealth Ranching:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RealWealthRanching

Website: https://www.rwranching.com/learn

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@realwealthranching

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realwealthranching/?hl=en

Check out Bos Sires:

Website: https://www.bossires.com/

Bos Sires Catalog: International New Bos Sires Catalog (English)

Support the Podcast

If you enjoy the show and want to support our mission of restoring sustainable, long-lasting genetics to the cattle industry, consider joining our Patreon community. Your support helps us continue producing valuable content for ranchers and cattle enthusiasts worldwide.

Join us on Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk]

Episode 8: AI in the Arctic — Building Better Cattle with Hailey Edwards

Hailey Edwards takes us deep into the world of raising cattle in Alaska's most extreme environments, where temperatures plummet to -60°F in winter before soaring to 90°F in summer. Growing up on a family dairy that collapsed during industry-wide failures in 2000, Hailey pivoted to beef production and developed specialized knowledge that few ranchers in America possess.

The realities of Alaskan agriculture are startling. With 95% of food imported and only enough stored food to feed the population for approximately ten days, the state faces unique food security challenges. COVID-19 exposed these vulnerabilities, triggering panic buying and renewed interest in local production. Yet building agricultural systems in Alaska isn't simply a matter of importing models from Texas or Iowa.

Hailey shares the extraordinary challenges of raising cattle where hay seasons last just three months, allowing only two cuttings annually. This compressed growing season extends beef production cycles to 30 months—nearly double the timeframe in the lower 48 states. Transportation costs further complicate matters, with importing a single cow from Montana potentially costing $7,000.

As an AI technician serving remote communities, Hailey sometimes travels 1,000 miles round-trip to service just a few cows. Her work through Granite Mountain Breeding Services provides vital genetic diversity to isolated herds where "the family tree can quickly turn into a Christmas wreath." Her approach combines scientific knowledge with practical wisdom as she helps producers select genetics suited to Alaska's harsh realities.

Haley's most powerful insight resonates throughout our conversation: "You can't outbuy a learning curve." No amount of capital investment can replace the knowledge gained through experience in Alaska's unique conditions. Success requires patience, adaptation, and cattle that thrive on marginal forage with minimal inputs.

Connect with Hailey's work and discover more about building resilient cattle genetics for challenging environments through the links in our show notes. Subscribe for more conversations with ranchers revolutionizing cattle production through sustainable practices.

Connect with Hailey Edwards and Granit Mountain Breeding Services:

Facebook:  https://m.facebook.com/hailey.mcnabb.3/

Website: https://granitembs.com/

Bos Sires: https://www.bossires.com/haileyedwards

Check out Bos Sires:

Website: https://www.bossires.com/

Bos Sires Catalog: International New Bos Sires Catalog (English)

Support the Podcast

If you enjoy the show and want to support our mission of restoring sustainable, long-lasting genetics to the cattle industry, consider joining our Patreon community. Your support helps us continue producing valuable content for ranchers and cattle enthusiasts worldwide.

Join us on Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk]

Episode 7: No Backbone, No Herd: Restoring Forgotten Genetics With Hays Boyd

When nine-year-old Hays Boyd set out to find heat-tolerant, good-natured cattle that could thrive on grass, he had no idea his research would lay the foundation for one of America’s premier Murray Grey herds. Now a veterinarian and third-generation rancher, Hayes shares the journey of Backbone Ranch—where a commitment to practical, efficient genetics is reshaping the industry.

From combing through decades-old breed newsletters as a teenager to sourcing semen from the first Murray Grey bulls imported to the U.S. in the 1960s, Hays took an unconventional path to restoring forgotten genetics. With a focus on longevity and efficiency, Backbone Ranch selects for cattle that last—like females still producing past age 12 and bulls from proven maternal lines.

Hays also brings a veterinarian’s insight into the structural soundness issues plaguing the industry, contrasting them with the durability of his low-maintenance herd in the Texas heat. His customers—both ranchers and restaurants—have discovered that Murray Grey cattle don’t just survive, they excel. Whether grass-finished or grain-fed, they deliver premium beef quality with unmatched efficiency.

If you’re interested in genetics that work in the real world—without the extra inputs—tune in to hear Hays Boyd’s take on building better cattle from the ground up. Learn more at https://www.backboneranch.com/.

Connect with Hays Boyd & Backbone Ranch:

Website: https://www.backboneranch.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100078894004341

Bos Sires: https://www.bossires.com/backbone-ranch

Check out Bos Sires:

Website: https://www.bossires.com/

Bos Sires Catalog: International New Bos Sires Catalog (English)

Support the Podcast

If you enjoy the show and want to support our mission of restoring sustainable, long-lasting genetics to the cattle industry, consider joining our Patreon community. Your support helps us continue producing valuable content for ranchers and cattle enthusiasts worldwide.

Join us on Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk]

Episode 6: Show Ponies and Paper Tigers with PJ Budler

In this episode PJ takes us on a global cattle expedition that challenges everything we think we know about breeding. Having judged cattle in 48 countries, Budler offers a rare perspective on the disconnect between American cattle breeding philosophies and what actually works around the world.

Budler introduces two powerful metaphors that perfectly capture the industry's challenges: "show ponies" (cattle bred for ribbons rather than practicality) and "paper tigers" (animals selected solely on spreadsheet data). Both approaches have created genetics that often collapse when exported to different environments – particularly troubling since 80% of the world's cattle live in tropical or subtropical regions where adapted animals are essential.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn when Budler challenges the industry claim that fertility is "lowly heritable," calling out the nutrition companies that benefit from this misconception. "If you had 300 cows and a hundred were Holstein, a hundred Brahman, and a hundred Angus, you know which group would have the highest calf crop before we even start – it's definitely genetic," Budler explains.

Perhaps the most valuable takeaway comes from Budler's counterintuitive approach to selection: breed against negative outliers rather than for positive extremes. "If you're average for just about everything but an outlier in a positive way for fertility, you're profitable," he says, encouraging ranchers to pursue balance over extremes.

PJ concludes with a powerful perspective on cattle producers as "superheroes" who not only feed the population but maintain rural communities and contribute to national security by stewarding vast tracts of land. His message offers hope that by returning to adapted, balanced genetics, ranchers can create sustainable operations that benefit both people and the environment.

Connect with PJ Budler:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009980023978

Check out Bos Sires:

Website: https://www.bossires.com/

Bos Sires Catalog: International New Bos Sires Catalog (English)

Support the Podcast

If you enjoy the show and want to support our mission of restoring sustainable, long-lasting genetics to the cattle industry, consider joining our Patreon community. Your support helps us continue producing valuable content for ranchers and cattle enthusiasts worldwide.

Join us on Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk]

Episode 5: Form Follows Function and the Bonsma Approach with Darris Meitler

What can a cow that's raised 16 calves teach us about sustainable ranching? More than any textbook, says Darris Meitler, a fifth-generation Kansas cattleman whose family has been raising functional, profitable cattle since 1932. 
 
 The Meitler operation stands as a living testament that focusing on maternal traits, hormonal balance, and practical functionality creates cattle that thrive for generations. With approximately 700 cows spanning registered Herefords, Angus, and their renowned F1 crossbreds, they've built a reputation for females that last—not through flashy marketing or trend-chasing, but through patient observation and respecting what actually works on the range.
 
 "If you have to dig through papers to answer which cow is your best, that's a problem," Darris explains, challenging an industry increasingly disconnected from the animals themselves. Following principles learned from South African scientist Dr. Bonsma, the Meitlers select cattle showing visual indicators of proper hormonal balance—traits that correlate strongly with fertility, longevity, and problem-free performance.
 
 What makes this approach revolutionary in today's cattle business isn't its novelty but its time-tested reliability. While many modern operations chase single traits at the expense of overall functionality, the Meitlers have maintained their focus on creating "employees that don't cause troubles"—cows that consistently deliver a calf each year without drama or excessive inputs.
 
 The conversation ventures beyond breeding philosophy into deeper territory—the moral obligation cattlemen have to the land and future generations. Darris reflects on how previous generations' sacrifices enabled his family's continued success and how their current efforts aren't just about profit but preserving something meaningful for their children.
 
 Whether you're a multi-generational rancher or just beginning your cattle journey, this episode provides invaluable insights about reading what your cows are trying to teach you and building a herd that's truly sustainable in every sense of the word. Learn more about Meitler Cattle's program at their upcoming production sale on April 12th in Lucas, Kansas.

Connect with Darris Meitler & Meitler Cattle:

Website: https://meitlercattle.com/

Meitler Catalog: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/657986875/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057599162764

Bos Sires: https://www.bossires.com/meitler-cattle-company

Bos Sires Catalog: International New Bos Sires Catalog (English)

Support the Podcast

If you enjoy the show and want to support our mission of restoring sustainable, long-lasting genetics to the cattle industry, consider joining our Patreon community. Your support helps us continue producing valuable content for ranchers and cattle enthusiasts worldwide.

Join us on Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk]

Episode 4: What Happens When Cows Fly? With Renee Strickland

What does it take to move cattle across continents? In this episode, we sit down with Renee Strickland, a seasoned livestock exporter, to explore the challenges and opportunities in the global cattle trade. From sourcing the right cattle to ensuring their welfare in transit, Strickland shares firsthand insights into what it takes to successfully export livestock to diverse environments.

We’ll also discuss the importance of genetics in these operations, including how moderate-built, fertile cattle with heritage genetics are better suited for thriving in different climates. With years of experience bridging the gap between ranchers and international markets, Strickland highlights the critical role of education, logistics expertise, and ethical responsibility in cattle exporting.

Tune in for a deep dive into the world of livestock exports, sustainable cattle genetics, and the future of global agriculture. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join the conversation!

Connect with Renee Strickland & Strickland Exports:

Website: https://stricklandexports.com/

Renee's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1023690156

Strickland Exports Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100042840972694

Support the Podcast

If you enjoy the show and want to support our mission of restoring sustainable, long-lasting genetics to the cattle industry, consider joining our Patreon community. Your support helps us continue producing valuable content for ranchers and cattle enthusiasts worldwide.

Join us on Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk]

Episode 3: Shaping Regenerative Ranching with Austin Dillon of Counter Culture Farms

Unlock the secrets of sustainable ranching with Austin Dillon, owner and operator of Counter Culture Farms in East Texas. In this episode of Sustainable Stock, host Patrick Powers dives into Austin’s innovative approach to regenerative ranching, where traditional cattle genetics meet cutting-edge practices. Austin shares how he integrates cattle and sheep to create a harmonious, low-input system that thrives while respecting the delicate balance of nature.

Learn about Austin’s journey in selecting resilient Mashona bulls, perfectly adapted to the Texas heat, and how his emphasis on composite cattle genetics, including Hereford influences, plays a vital role in the success of his operation. By blending these genetics with regenerative techniques, Austin is creating a system that boosts productivity while safeguarding the health and sustainability of the land for future generations.

Whether you're an experienced rancher or new to the field, you’ll gain actionable advice and valuable insights into the evolving landscape of agriculture.

Beyond the technical aspects, this episode explores deeper themes of stewardship, legacy, and hope. Austin reflects on the importance of mentorship, adaptation, and faith in driving positive change. His inspiring stories emphasize the powerful role individuals play in nurturing our planet for future generations.

Connect with Austin Dillon & Counter Culture Farms:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counterculturefarms/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/counterculturefarms

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@counterculturefarms

Bos Sires: https://www.bossires.com/counter-culture-farms

Tune in to discover how regenerative ranching can transform the future of agriculture!

Support the Podcast

If you enjoy the show and want to support our mission of restoring sustainable, long-lasting genetics to the cattle industry, consider joining our Patreon community. Your support helps us continue producing valuable content for ranchers and cattle enthusiasts worldwide.

Join us on Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk]

Episode 2: Building the Bos Sires Legacy with Grant Vassberg

In this episode of Sustainable Stock, host Patrick Powers speaks with Grant Vassberg, owner of Kallion Farms and co-founder of Bos Sires. Grant provides an inside look at the roles within Bos Sires, the vision driving the program, and how newcomers can get involved.

This episode serves as both an introduction to the structure of Bos Sires and a call to action for those looking to engage in sustainable cattle breeding. Whether you're a seasoned cattleman or just starting out, Grant’s insights will provide valuable guidance on how to be part of this growing community.

Connect with Grant Vassberg & Bos Sires:
Website: https://kallionfarms.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kallionfarms/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kallionfarms
Bos Sires: https://www.bossires.com/grant-vassberg

Tune in to learn how you can contribute to the future of sustainable ranching!

Support the Podcast

If you enjoy the show and want to support our mission of restoring sustainable, long-lasting genetics to the cattle industry, consider joining our Patreon community. Your support helps us continue producing valuable content for ranchers and cattle enthusiasts worldwide.

Join us on Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk]

Episode 1: Breeding Resilience with John Atkinson

In the premiere episode of Sustainable Stock, host Patrick Powers sits down with John Atkinson, a seventh-generation Australian cattleman, breeder, representative, and consultant for Bos Sires. John shares his family's rich ranching legacy, including their pivotal role in developing the resilient Droughtmaster breed.

This episode dives into low-input genetics, sustainable breeding practices, and how these methods are shaping the future of cattle ranching. Gain insights into Bos Sires’ commitment to restoring sustainability and ensuring long-term herd resilience.

 Connect with John Atkinson:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cashmeredroughtmasters/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cashmeredroughtmasters/
Bos Sires: https://www.bossires.com/john-atkinson

Support the Podcast

If you enjoy the show and want to support our mission of restoring sustainable, long-lasting genetics to the cattle industry, consider joining our Patreon community. Your support helps us continue producing valuable content for ranchers and cattle enthusiasts worldwide.

Join us on Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/bossirestalk]

Tune in to discover how thoughtful breeding can secure the future of ranching!