Tom Schultz of Neogen joins us for an insightful conversation on DNA testing and genetic evaluations. This episode covers key differences between seedstock and commercial DNA testing, why DNA sample processing takes time, and how genetic research is helping select against major health issues like bovine congestive heart failure. Tune in for a deep dive into the science behind smarter, data-driven decisions for your herd!

Season 2 of the Shorthorn Bull Pen kicks off with Chandler Mulvaney, director of grassroots advocacy and spokesperson development for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Host Montie Soules talks with Chandler about the vital role of industry advocates, whether they come from multi-generation ranching families or are just starting in beef production.

They discuss why having “boots-on-the-ground” spokespersons is critical for the industry’s future and highlight the benefits of junior beef breed associations in preparing young leaders to be confident, effective communicators. Tune in for an insightful conversation on shaping the next generation of beef advocates!

Welcome to the final episode of Season 1 of The Shorthorn Bull Pen! To celebrate the season's success, we’re bringing back a fan favorite—our very first episode. In this special re-air, host Montie Soules sits down with Congressman Frank Lucas, a proud Shorthorn breeder and passionate advocate for rural America. Congressman Lucas shares his insights on representing agricultural communities in Washington, D.C., and the critical role of educating congressional leaders about modern agriculture practices. Let’s revisit this inspiring conversation that started it all!

In this episode of the Shorthorn Bull Pen, we sit down with Ryan Sproul, the community relations manager for Oklahoma Natural Gas. With a background advising politicians such as former U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe from Oklahoma, Ryan brings a wealth of experience from both the public and private sectors. Outside of his professional career, Ryan operates a cow-calf business, giving him a unique perspective on the challenges and rewards of ranching. Tune in to hear about his journey, his insights on bridging industries, and how his passion for agriculture influences his work.

In the latest episode of The Shorthorn Bull Pen, host Montie Soules sits down with Kevin Biffert and Sam Fisher from 701x to explore the future of ranching through innovative technology. 701x is pioneering autonomous ranching with smart ear tags, designed to simplify herd management and provide cattle producers with real-time data. Kevin and Sam dive into the ways these tags are transforming livestock management, the benefits they bring to ranchers and the game-changing potential this technology holds for the industry.

The discussion with Dr. Bob Weaber continues as he and host Montie Soules dive into the whirlwind of evolutions in genomics. See what’s in store for genetic evaluations in the face of technologies like artificial intelligence and low-pass sequencing data, and how these revolutions pave the way for seedstock and commercial producers to make exponential progress. He also shares his vision for using digital labor to gather phenotypic data, and how it can help the next generation stay in business.

No stone is left unturned in this two-part episode featuring Kansas State University Research and Extension’s Dr. Bob Weaber. “We are now at a spot in genomics technology where if you’re a seedstock producer and you’re not using it you’re going to get left way behind in terms of genetic merit and genetic progress,” he shares. Tune in to learn about what he calls “minding the gap” in forming your genetic destiny.

In this special episode of the Shorthorn Bull Pen, guest Jackie McClaskey, President and CEO of the American Royal, unveils plans for the organization's monumental move to a new facility coinciding with its 125th anniversary. McClaskey discusses the significance of this transition in furthering the American Royal's mission of education and preserving consumer confidence in agriculture, including innovative connections between the stock show and the iconic American Royal World Series of BBQ series.