Beefmaster Banter

Maternal Strength Starts with Data: Whole Herd Reporting, Fertility, and Breed Progress

In this episode of Beefmaster Banter, Dr. Troy Rowan of the University of Tennessee joins Lance to discuss the role of data collection, whole herd reporting, and reproductive performance in building a stronger Beefmaster breed. From EPD accuracy and contemporary groups to fertility traits and heterosis, this conversation dives into how complete and accurate data drives better genetic decisions and long-term breed progress. Tune in as they explore why maternal performance matters, the value of reporting the full picture, and how Beefmasters are uniquely positioned to meet the future demands of the cattle industry.

Moving the Breed Forward: Leadership, Data, and Industry Involvement

In this episode of Beefmaster Banter, Josh Morrison joins us to discuss the role of committees, breeder involvement, and the direction of the Beefmaster breed. From the importance of industry participation to advancements in carcass data and EPD accuracy, this conversation highlights what it takes to move the breed forward. Tune in to hear why now is the time to step up, get involved, and be part of the progress.

The Making of Beefmaster: 90 Years of Purpose-Driven Breeding

In this episode, Lorenzo Lasseter discusses the origins and future of the Beefmaster breed. Developed in South Texas and officially founded in 1937, Beefmasters were built as a three-way cross focused on economic efficiency through the “Six Essentials”: fertility, weight, conformation, hardiness, milk production, and disposition. Lasseter highlights the breed’s balanced, stabilized hybrid design, recent USDA research validating its performance, growing international demand, and the opportunity to expand its role in the U.S. commercial cattle industry as the next generation continues the family legacy.

Growing Forward: Strategy, Marketing, and Breed Design

In this episode of Beefmaster Banter, Hannah Nixon, Dr. Lance Bauer, and BBU President Trey Scherer recap the association’s recent strategic planning meeting and discuss the future of the Beefmaster breed. They explore key priorities including increasing market share, strengthening marketing efforts, engaging members, and refining breed design. The conversation highlights the importance of data-driven decisions, long-term planning, and grassroots involvement to keep Beefmasters competitive in a changing industry. This episode offers a clear look at where the breed stands today—and how BBU plans to move it forward.

Merry & United: Celebrating 2025 Progress and Looking Forward to 2026

In this holiday-themed episode of Beefmaster Banter, Hannah Nixon and Dr. Lance Bauer are joined by BBU Business Manager Kelsey Crenshaw for a warm, behind-the-scenes year-in-review of 2025. The team shares personal Christmas traditions, laughs, and favorite memories while highlighting major wins for the association and the breed—including stronger office efficiency, record-setting membership activity (registrations, transfers, enrollments, and DNA typing), outstanding sale demand, and major momentum in BBU’s marketing and event coverage. They also look ahead to 2026 with excitement—spotlighting upcoming Junior Nationals and Convention locations, new advertising opportunities through BBU, and research projects aimed at proving Beefmaster profitability, maternal performance, and feed efficiency with data that benefits the entire membership.