Santos Patronos Builds a Diversified Future with Wagyu Genetics, Beef Sales, and Ranch Hospitality

Santos Patronos Builds a Diversified Future with Wagyu Genetics, Beef Sales, and Ranch Hospitality

While attending the Texas Wagyu Association and Australian Wagyu Association International Conference in Fort Worth, I had the opportunity to sit down with Ray Thomas Sr. and Ray Thomas Jr. of Santos Patronos. Their story is one built around family, faith, hard work, and a willingness to take a different path when opportunity presented itself. Ray Thomas Sr. has spent nearly four decades as an attorney, but cattle have always been part of his life. He grew up near cattle along the border in Presidio, Texas, and eventually found his way back to ranching. After purchasing a ranch near Seguin, Texas, he and his family inherited a herd of registered Beefmaster cattle and began learning the registered cattle business firsthand.  What started as a ranching interest quickly became something more serious when Ray Thomas Jr. decided to put law school on hold and make a run at building the ranch into a sustainable business. After graduating from TCU and preparing for law school, Ray Jr. realized that the ranch offered a different kind of opportunity. With his family’s support, he chose to step into agriculture and help shape the future of Santos Patronos. Today, Santos Patronos operates with a diversified business model built around three primary areas: fullblood black Wagyu seedstock and genetics, a lodge and event venue, and a retail beef store in Seguin. That combination gives the ranch multiple ways to create value while staying connected to both cattle production and the end consumer. The ranch’s Wagyu program focuses on quality over quantity. With around 60 mama cows, recipient females, bulls, and cattle on feed, the operation is carefully building its herd with an emphasis on proven genetics and reliable data. While a production sale may be part of the future, the Thomas family wants to take the time to prove their cattle first and stand behind what they eventually offer to buyers. Their beef program gives Santos Patronos another important outlet. By feeding and processing cattle, then selling beef through their retail store, the operation can capture more value from the animals they raise. It also gives customers a direct connection to the ranch and the story behind the beef. Hospitality is another key piece of the business. The lodge and event center allow Santos Patronos to host corporate retreats, family gatherings, dinner parties, weddings, and other events. That part of the operation reflects the family’s long-standing love of entertaining, cooking, and sharing the ranch with others. During our conversation, the Thomases also spoke highly of the Texas Wagyu Association and the impact it has had on their operation. They credited the association’s recent leadership and its partnership with the Australian Wagyu Association a important steps forward for the breed. Through greater access to data, innovation, and international collaboration, producers like Santos Patronos are finding more tools to improve their herds and grow the Wagyu business in the United States. They also recognized the importance of cooperation among the Texas Wagyu Association, the Australian Wagyu Association, and the American Wagyu Association. As the Wagyu industry continues to mature, collaboration among these organizations will be important for expanding market share, improving breed recognition, and supporting producers across the country. Like many cattle producers, the Thomas family is also thinking carefully about future growth. Land limitations around their Seguin headquarters mean expansion may eventually require outside partnerships, cooperative herd programs, or cattle placed in other regions. They are already exploring ways to grow responsibly while protecting the quality of their cattle and the strength of their brand. Weather, markets, and animal health challenges are always part of the ranching business. After enduring more than two years of drought, the ranch recently received much-needed rainfall, bringing new life back to the pastures. At the same time, concerns like the spread of New World screwworm remind producers how important it is to have contingency plans in place. One of the standout moments in their Wagyu journey came through the Big Texas Sale, where a Santos Patronos heifer named Miss Texas sold for $250,000. It was an exciting achievement, but Ray Jr. was quick to recognize that not every day brings that kind of result. Building a lasting cattle operation requires patience, discipline, and a long-term commitment to quality. After visiting with Ray Thomas Sr. and Ray Thomas Jr., it is clear that Santos Patronos is more than a ranch. It is a family-driven operation built around premium Wagyu genetics, direct-to-consumer beef, hospitality, and a deep respect for the cattle business. For producers watching the growth of Wagyu cattle in America, Santos Patronos is an operation worth keeping an eye on. Their story shows what can happen when a family combines tradition, innovation, and a willingness to build something for the next generation.   For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com. [https://americancattlemen.com/podcasts/] American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By: Moly Manufacturing [https://www.molymfg.com/] Central Life Sciences [https://www.centrallifesciences.com/] Medgene [https://medgenelabs.com/] Forge [https://forge-ind.com/]

Herd Yard Brings a New Way to Buy and Sell Cattle Online

While attending the 2026 Big Texas Event in Fort Worth, I had the opportunity to visit with Paul Rogers, founder of Herd Yard, a growing online platform designed to help cattle producers connect with serious buyers and sellers across the country.  Paul’s background is a little different than many folks in the cattle business. He did not grow up in the cattle industry. Instead, he spent years working in video production and with technology startups, including time in California’s internet and startup space. That experience gave him a unique perspective when he and his wife moved into an agricultural area and began looking for a business opportunity. The idea for Herd Yard came after a conversation with a cattle producer who was frustrated by how difficult it could be to find specific cattle. That producer explained that, many times, the only option was to get in the truck and drive the countryside looking for what he needed. That sparked the idea for what Paul calls “the Zillow of cattle.” Herd Yard allows producers to list cattle on an online map, making it easier for buyers to search based on location and specific needs. Sellers can list cattle using either a direct address or a nearby town, depending on their preference. The platform was launched last year and already has more than 600 buyers and sellers using it. One of the things that makes Herd Yard different is its pricing structure. Rather than charging commissions on each sale, the platform uses a yearly membership fee. Producers can list unlimited cattle for one annual cost, and members of participating associations, including groups like the Texas Wagyu Association, Australian Wagyu Association, and American Hereford Association, receive a lifetime discount as long as they remain members of those organizations. Paul emphasized that Herd Yard is not trying to replace auctioneers, sale managers, brokers, or the relationships that already exist in the cattle business. In fact, he sees opportunities for those professionals to use the platform as another tool to promote cattle, advertise upcoming sales, and connect with more buyers. The goal, according to Paul, is to help keep more money in the hands of producers. By lowering marketing costs and making it easier for cattlemen to find the right buyers, Herd Yard is working to create a more efficient marketplace for American beef producers. Quality is also an important part of the platform. Paul discussed the importance of strong photos and professional listings so buyers can quickly evaluate cattle without wasting time sorting through poor-quality images or unclear information. As the platform continues to grow, Herd Yard is looking at ways to help producers improve the way their cattle are presented online. The commercial side of the cattle business may also become a major part of Herd Yard’s future. Paul shared that the platform has already seen success with pot load sales, and there may be opportunities to develop a more specialized commercial cattle section for buyers looking specifically for larger groups of cattle. Like any marketplace, Herd Yard becomes stronger as more buyers and sellers join. Paul understands that building that network will take time, but the early feedback from producers has been encouraging. His long-term vision is to create a platform where serious cattle buyers and sellers can connect without relying on social media platforms that were never truly designed for livestock marketing. Many producers have used Facebook and other social platforms to market cattle, but those listings can get buried quickly, and animal sales are often restricted or removed. Herd Yard aims to give producers a dedicated option built specifically for cattle marketing. At the end of the day, this is still about bringing buyers and sellers together. That part of the cattle business has not changed. What has changed is the platform. Years ago, it may have been buy-sell-trade magazines. Today, technology offers new ways to make those connections faster and more efficiently. After visiting with Paul Rogers, it is clear that Herd Yard has an ambitious plan and a strong sense of purpose. The platform is still growing, but it offers cattle producers another tool worth exploring. For producers looking for a new way to market cattle, find specific genetics, or connect with serious buyers, Herd Yard is a platform to keep an eye on.   For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com. [https://americancattlemen.com/podcasts/] American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By: Moly Manufacturing [https://www.molymfg.com/] Central Life Sciences [https://www.centrallifesciences.com/] Medgene [https://medgenelabs.com/] Forge [https://forge-ind.com/]

Cade Nichols Sees Bright Future for Commercial Producers - Big Texas Event

While attending the recent Texas Wagyu Association event in Fort Worth, Texas, I had the opportunity to sit down with Cade Nichols, President of the American Wagyu Association and owner of Nichols Ranching. We covered a lot of ground during our conversation, from commercial cattle production and Wagyu genetics to the future of the breed and the opportunities available for cattle producers looking to add value to their operations.  One thing I appreciate about Cade is that he comes at the business from a commercial cattleman’s perspective. His family background is rooted in commercial cattle production, and even though Wagyu has become a major part of their operation, he still views many opportunities through the lens of what works for commercial producers. Today, Nichols Ranching remains heavily involved in the cattle business through seedstock production, bull sales, and cattle marketing programs designed to help commercial producers capture additional value. Building Programs Around Commercial Producers Nichols explained that while his family once fed a significant number of cattle annually, their operation has evolved over time. Today, much of their focus revolves around genetics and working with commercial producers through bull sales and marketing programs. They sell and lease bulls to commercial cattlemen, particularly those looking for calving ease and added carcass value. Many of those calves eventually come back through Nichols’ marketing channels, allowing him to maintain relationships with producers while helping them access premium markets. That commercial focus has also expanded into special cattle sales. After launching a successful event last year, Nichols Ranching is preparing for another commercial female sale in Sulphur Springs, Texas. The offering will feature primarily Angus-based females from operations known for producing high-quality cattle. In addition, Nichols plans to offer select groups of fullblood Wagyu females for producers interested in entering the breed. Leading the American Wagyu Association In addition to running a ranching operation, Nichols serves as President of the American Wagyu Association, a position he admits he never expected to hold. After serving on the Texas Wagyu Association board and later becoming involved with the national organization, he now finds himself helping guide one of the fastest-growing sectors of the beef industry. Nichols spoke highly of American Wagyu Association Executive Director Jerry Reeves and credited Reeves and the association’s board with helping move the organization forward. Their focus remains centered on supporting members, improving services, and growing opportunities for Wagyu producers across the country. Why Commercial Producers Matter One topic that generated considerable discussion during last year’s American Wagyu Association Convention was the role commercial cattle producers will play in the future growth of the breed. Nichols doesn’t hesitate when discussing that subject. As he pointed out, nearly all cattle producers operate within the commercial sector. Ignoring that market would limit growth opportunities for the breed. From his perspective, Wagyu bulls have earned a place in commercial production systems. While some producers still remember early-generation Wagyu crosses as smaller-framed cattle with lower weaning weights, today’s genetics tell a different story. Nichols shared that comparison within his own operation show Wagyu-influenced calves typically wean only 20 to 25 pounds lighter than their Angus counterparts. When premiums for Wagyu-cross calves are factored into the equation, those numbers become very attractive. For many producers, especially those breeding heifers, Wagyu bulls offer another important advantage—calving ease. As Nichols explained, producers can turn Wagyu bulls out with confidence and expect few calving problems while still producing calves that qualify for value-added marketing programs. Changing Perceptions About Wagyu Like many cattlemen who grew up around traditional beef breeds, Nichols admits he was skeptical when his family first entered the Wagyu business nearly two decades ago. His opinion has changed significantly since then. The breed has made tremendous progress in terms of performance, efficiency, and market acceptance. While phenotype remains one of the biggest hurdles for some producers, Nichols believes the industry is steadily overcoming those perceptions. He joked that Wagyu cattle may never be considered “front pasture cattle” by traditional standards, but emphasized that the breed’s value lies in its ability to consistently produce superior marbling and premium beef. As genetic selection continues, breeders are also making progress in improving growth, efficiency, and overall cattle performance. Better Genetics, Better Beef One of the biggest changes Nichols has witnessed involves feeding performance and carcass development. When he first entered the breed, fullblood cattle often required significantly longer feeding periods before harvest. Today’s genetics have improved dramatically. Producers are now seeing cattle reach desirable carcass endpoints much earlier while still delivering the exceptional marbling that Wagyu is known for worldwide. Those improvements are helping create new opportunities not only for purebred breeders but also for commercial producers utilizing Wagyu crossbreeding programs. The result is a product that continues gaining recognition among consumers, restaurants, and beef marketers throughout the country. Plenty of Room for New Producers For producers considering Wagyu, Nichols believes there is still significant opportunity within the breed. His advice is simple. Attend events. Talk to breeders. Ask questions. Develop a business plan that fits your operation. Whether a producer manages five acres or fifty thousand acres, Nichols believes there are multiple ways to participate in the Wagyu business successfully. More importantly, he emphasized the willingness of Wagyu breeders to help newcomers learn and find their place within the industry. Looking Ahead As our conversation wrapped up, Nichols remained optimistic about the future of Wagyu cattle in the United States. Consumer awareness continues to grow. Commercial producers are becoming more familiar with the advantages of Wagyu genetics. Youth programs are gaining momentum, and breed organizations are focused on expanding opportunities for members. Most importantly, the industry continues telling its story. And as more producers see the economic potential of Wagyu genetics, that story is likely to reach even more ranches across the country. I want to thank Cade Nichols for taking the time to visit with us and share his perspective on the future of the Wagyu industry. His practical, commercial-minded approach offers valuable insight for producers looking to add value and explore new opportunities within the beef business.   For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com. [https://americancattlemen.com/podcasts/] American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By: Moly Manufacturing [https://www.molymfg.com/] Central Life Sciences [https://www.centrallifesciences.com/] Medgene [https://medgenelabs.com/] Forge [https://forge-ind.com/]

Texas Wagyu Association Builds Momentum Through Genetics, Education, and Industry Collaboration

One of the great things about attending cattle industry events is the opportunity to spend time with the people helping shape the future of their breed and their industry. During the 2026 Big Texas Event in Fort Worth, Texas, I had the opportunity to sit down with Bryan Milburn, President of the Texas Wagyu Association, to discuss the growth of the Wagyu industry, the importance of genetic advancement, and the opportunities available for both seedstock and commercial cattle producers. Milburn and his wife, Anna, own Milburn American Wagyu and operate on a ranch rich in family history. The ranch, originally purchased by his grandfather in 1946, has come full circle after years of family dedication and hard work. Today, the operation represents five generations of ranching heritage and serves as a foundation for their commitment to producing high-quality Wagyu cattle. One of the most significant developments discussed during our conversation was the partnership between the Texas Wagyu Association and the Australian Wagyu Association through the International Wagyu Corporation. According to Milburn, the collaboration began several years ago with a simple email and has evolved into a relationship that provides tremendous value to Wagyu producers on both sides of the globe. The Australian Wagyu Association has long been recognized for its extensive data collection and advanced genetic evaluation systems. Through the partnership, Texas Wagyu producers gain access to valuable genetic information that helps improve selection decisions, carcass quality predictions, and overall breed advancement. While many cattlemen have traditionally relied on phenotype and practical experience when making breeding decisions, Milburn explained that the integration of genetic data has become an important tool for modern producers. As tissue sampling, genomic testing, and performance analysis continue to align with real-world results, confidence in the technology continues to grow. Education remains a major focus for the Texas Wagyu Association as well. The Big Texas Event featured presentations covering genetic evaluation, nutrition, mineral programs, animal health, and management strategies designed to help producers maximize the potential of their cattle operations. Another area receiving increased attention is youth involvement. Like many breed organizations, the Texas Wagyu Association recognizes the importance of developing the next generation of cattle producers. Efforts continue to expand youth participation through educational events, networking opportunities, and breed-focused activities that introduce young people to the Wagyu industry. Of course, one of the highlights of the event was the highly anticipated Big Texas Sale. What began several years ago as a smaller sale has quickly grown into one of the premier Wagyu marketing events in the country. Through a stringent selection process, only elite cattle and genetics earn a place in the sale catalog. Milburn credits the success of the event to strong leadership, quality consignments, and a venue that attracts buyers from across the nation. The sale continues to showcase top-tier females, herd sire prospects, and frozen genetics that represent some of the breed’s most sought-after bloodlines. Beyond the seedstock sector, the conversation also focused on the growing opportunities for commercial cattle producers. Wagyu genetics continue to gain attention for their ability to improve marbling and carcass quality when crossed with commercial beef cattle. The benefits of hybrid vigor, combined with the premium carcass traits associated with Wagyu, are creating new marketing opportunities for producers seeking additional value from their calf crops. The beef-on-dairy segment also continues to expand. Producers across the country have discovered that Wagyu genetics can add significant value to dairy-influenced cattle, creating an additional avenue for growth within the industry. As consumer demand for premium beef products continues to increase, the future appears bright for Wagyu producers. Through strategic partnerships, advanced genetic tools, educational outreach, and innovative marketing programs, organizations like the Texas Wagyu Association are helping position the breed for long-term success. After visiting with Bryan Milburn and learning more about the direction of the breed, one thing became very clear: the future of Wagyu cattle in America is being built on a foundation of quality genetics, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous improvement. For producers interested in learning more about Wagyu cattle, genetics, and upcoming industry events, the Texas Wagyu Association continues to serve as a valuable resource for breeders, seedstock producers, and commercial cattlemen alike.   For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com. [https://americancattlemen.com/podcasts/] American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By: Moly Manufacturing [https://www.molymfg.com/] Central Life Sciences [https://www.centrallifesciences.com/] Medgene [https://medgenelabs.com/] Forge [https://forge-ind.com/]

Medicine Tree Ranch Red Wagyu Complete Cowherd Dispersal

The latest episode of Genetics and the Gavel, powered by American Cattlemen Media, features Jeff Hawkins of Medicine Tree Ranch in Clinton, Montana, discussing the upcoming Medicine Tree Ranch Red Wagyu Complete Cowherd Dispersal scheduled for June 30, 2026, at 1:00 PM CDT.  Hosted by Gail McKinney, the episode provides listeners with an inside look at one of the most respected Red Wagyu programs in the country. Hawkins shares the history of Medicine Tree Ranch, the family's dedication to developing elite Red Wagyu genetics, and the breeding philosophies that have guided the operation for years. During the conversation, Hawkins explains what first attracted him to Red Wagyu cattle and why the breed continues to generate interest among both seedstock and commercial cattle producers. He discusses the advantages that Red Wagyu genetics offer, including exceptional carcass quality, maternal strength, feed efficiency, and access to premium beef markets. The discussion also covers the difficult decision to disperse the herd and the significance of offering a complete program that represents years of careful genetic selection and management. If you are searching for elite Fullblood Wagyu genetics, herd sire prospects, replacement females, or productive F1 cattle, this sale represents a unique opportunity to acquire genetics from a proven and respected program. Be sure to listen to this episode of Genetics and the Gavel to learn more about Medicine Tree Ranch, the Hawkins family, and the cattle selling in this premier Red Wagyu dispersal event. For additional information, view the sale catalog, register to bid, and access sale details through Live-Ag.com or contact Wagyu 365.   For previous episodes of Genetics & the Gavel, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com. [https://americancattlemen.com/podcasts/] American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By: Moly Manufacturing [https://www.molymfg.com/] Central Life Sciences [https://www.centrallifesciences.com/] Medgene [https://medgenelabs.com/] Forge [https://forge-ind.com/]