The Source — Field Notes: Why SmartBulls Work

Episode 9: Phenotype vs. Performance & an interview with Donnie Leddy

In Episode 9 of The Source, Jamie Wolf is joined by Cody Jorgensen for a discussion on one of the most important topics in cattle breeding: phenotype versus performance. They break down why appearance alone isn't enough, how production data and genomics should influence breeding decisions, and why functional cattle with predictable performance create long-term success. In the second half of the episode, Jamie sits down with Donnie Leddy of Cattle Business Weekly during the Florida Cattlemen's Convention. Donnie shares his background in the cattle industry, the evolution of seedstock marketing, what goes into a successful bull sale, and why relationships continue to be one of the industry's greatest strengths. Whether you're a seedstock producer, commercial cattleman, or simply passionate about the beef industry, this episode offers valuable insight into breeding philosophy, cattle marketing, and the people helping move the industry forward. Topics Covered: • Phenotype vs. performance in cattle selection • Functional cattle and structural soundness • Using production data and genomics in breeding decisions • Building predictable cow families • Seedstock marketing and bull sales • Donnie Leddy's journey with Cattle Business Weekly • The importance of relationships in the cattle industry Subscribe for more conversations with industry leaders, practical insights, and real-world cattle knowledge.

Episode 8: Genomics 101 with Lane Giess

What role does genomics really play in today's beef industry, and why does performance data still matter? In this episode of The Source, Jamie Wolf is joined by Lane Giess for a practical conversation about genetic evaluations, DNA testing, and how genomics can help both seedstock and commercial cattle producers make better decisions. They discuss why collecting quality performance data remains essential, how genomic predictions are developed, the importance of reference populations, and where the future of genetic testing is headed. Whether you're new to genomics or looking to better understand how these tools fit into your operation, this episode breaks down the science into real-world applications for today's cattle industry.

The Source — Field Notes: Why Living Roots & Diversity Matter (Part 2)

In Part 2 of our Five Soil Health Principles series, Jamie Wolf and Bryan Jorgensen discuss why living roots and crop diversity are essential to building resilient, productive soil. From cover crops and crop rotations to soil biology and long-term profitability, they explain how working with nature creates healthier farming systems for generations to come.

Episode 7: Managing People

Managing people may be one of the toughest jobs in agriculture. In this episode, Jamie Wolf sits down with Nick Jorgensen to discuss how Jorgensen Land & Cattle has built and managed a growing team while expanding one of the nation's largest Angus seedstock operations. They cover hiring, employee retention, internships, H-2A workers, communication, leadership, company culture, and why creating systems for people is just as important as creating systems for cattle. If you've ever struggled with managing employees, growing a business, or balancing work with family life, this episode is packed with practical insights you can apply to your own operation.

The Source — Field Notes: Defining Soil Health

In this Field Notes episode of The Source, Jamie Wolf sits down with Bryan Jorgensen to discuss the launch of Ideal Soil Solutions and the first two principles of soil health. Bryan shares the story behind Ideal Soil Solutions before diving into Soil Armor and Minimize Disturbance. The conversation covers soil biology, water infiltration, residue management, cover crops, grazing, organic matter, and practical strategies producers can use to build healthier, more resilient soils over time.