Merck Animal Health with Austin Woltemath

Black Jack Ranch Bringing Wagyu Genetics to Commercial Cattle Producers

During the Texas Wagyu Association and Australian Wagyu Association Conference in Fort Worth, industry leaders gathered for educational seminars, networking, and preparation for the highly anticipated Texas Wagyu Sale. Among them was Kim Howard of Black Jack Ranch, a progressive Mississippi-based Wagyu operation focused on premium beef production and seedstock development. Located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Black Jack Ranch manages approximately 600 head of cattle and calves 180 to 200 calves annually. Howard described the operation as an “80/20 program,” with 80% focused on beef production and 20% dedicated to seedstock genetics.  The ranch harvests between 10 and 12 cattle monthly and operates a successful farm-to- market retail store. Their popular Saturday Wagyu smash burger events routinely sell 180 to 200 burgers in just a few hours. Howard believes commercial cattle producers can significantly benefit from incorporating Wagyu genetics into their operations. Using elite Wagyu sires, including a bull named Samurai purchased at a previous Texas Wagyu Association sale, the ranch has consistently achieved exceptional carcass quality and Prime-grade beef. Many commercial producers have concerns about feeding periods and phenotype differences when considering Wagyu crossbreeding. Howard emphasized that performance, carcass merit, and profitability should remain the focus. Black Jack Ranch markets both Fullblood Wagyu and F1 Wagyu beef directly to consumers. According to Howard, customers consistently recognize the rich, buttery flavor that Wagyu genetics contribute to the eating experience. The ranch has also embraced embryo transfer technology to accelerate genetic progress. Last year, the operation purchased the top two females at the Texas Wagyu Association Sale for $215,000 each, investments that are already producing elite offspring. Howard also praised the collaborative culture within the Wagyu industry, noting that producers willingly share knowledge and help newcomers succeed. As interest in premium beef continues to grow, Howard believes Wagyu genetics offer commercial cattle producers an opportunity to increase carcass value, improve quality grades, and meet consumer demand for exceptional beef.   For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, 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/]

Building a More Fertile Cow Herd with KeyLix

In this episode of the American Cattleman Podcast, host Kaid Panek welcomes Cam Spackman of KeyLix for an in-depth discussion on one of the most overlooked yet critical components of a successful cow-calf operation: mineral supplementation. As calving season comes to a close and producers shift their focus toward breeding season, Kaid and Cam explore how the right nutrition program can improve body condition, increase conception rates, and ultimately boost profitability.  Cam explains the science behind chelated (organic) trace minerals and why their higher absorption rates make them more effective than traditional inorganic mineral sources. By helping cattle utilize a greater percentage of the nutrients they consume, chelated minerals reduce waste while ensuring cows receive the essential trace minerals needed for reproduction, immune function, and overall health. The conversation centers on the importance of body condition score (BCS) as a key driver of reproductive success. Cam shares research demonstrating the dramatic difference in breed-back rates between cows calving in poor condition versus those maintained at an optimal body condition score. He also discusses how KeyLix's Breed Back Omega Tub, formulated with ground flaxseed and omega-3 fatty acids, supports reproductive performance by improving body condition, enhancing immune function, and helping both cows and bulls perform during breeding season. Kaid shares firsthand experiences from his own operation, explaining how becoming more intentional with mineral supplementation has resulted in tighter calving windows, healthier calves, improved breed-back percentages, and stronger overall herd performance. Together, they emphasize that successful supplementation isn't about feeding more—it's about feeding the right product at the right time based on the nutritional demands of each stage of production. The episode also addresses the challenges facing western cattle producers, including drought, rising feed costs, and rebuilding the nation's cow herd. Cam explains how customized mineral programs can help producers adapt to local forage conditions, water quality, and regional deficiencies while maximizing the return on every nutrition dollar invested. Whether you're managing a commercial cow-calf herd or seedstock operation, this episode provides practical, research-backed strategies for improving herd fertility, maximizing mineral efficiency, and building a nutrition program that supports long-term success in today's challenging cattle industry.   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/]

Theileriosis, Anaplasmosis & Herd Health - Cattlemen & Veterinarians

In this episode of Cattlemen and Veterinarians: A Partnership in Bovine Health, hosts Kaid Panek and Dr. Shania Peterman, DVM, welcome Dr. Bob Gentry, DVM, Technical Services Veterinarian with MedGene, for an in-depth discussion on two emerging and economically significant cattle diseases: bovine theileriosis and anaplasmosis. As tick populations expand across the United States, understanding these diseases has become increasingly important for cattle producers looking to protect herd health and minimize production losses. Dr. Gentry explains the differences between anaplasmosis, a bacterial disease that has long been established throughout much of the country, and bovine theileriosis, an emerging disease caused by the Theileria orientalis Ikeda strain and spread primarily by the invasive Asian longhorned tick. Although the diseases share many clinical signs—including anemia, jaundice, lethargy, and reduced performance—accurate diagnosis through laboratory testing is essential because treatment and management strategies differ significantly. The conversation explores where these diseases are currently found, how they continue to spread, and the role ticks, biting insects, contaminated needles, and animal movement play in disease transmission. Dr. Gentry also discusses available diagnostic tools, treatment options for anaplasmosis, why no approved treatment currently exists for bovine theileriosis, and the exciting progress being made toward new vaccines designed to help producers better protect their herds. Throughout the episode, Kaid and Dr. Peterman emphasize the importance of proactive herd health management, biosecurity, and working closely with veterinarians to develop disease prevention strategies. Practical recommendations—including tick control, proper vaccination and injection practices, and monitoring cattle for early clinical signs—provide listeners with actionable steps they can implement on their own operations. Whether you're located in an area where these diseases are already established or simply want to stay ahead of emerging health challenges, this episode delivers valuable insights from one of the industry's leading veterinary experts. Tune in to learn how education, early detection, and sound management practices can help safeguard the health, productivity, and profitability of your cattle operation while preparing for the future of bovine disease prevention. The opinions expressed are those of the individual(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of Medgene. Potency and efficacy of prescription platform product biologics have not been established. This product is prepared for use only by a veterinarian prescription. For Future or Previous episodes visit our websites: American Cattlemen [https://americancattlemen.com/podcasts/] American Dairymen [https://americandairymen.com/] Cattlemen and Veterinarians: A Partnership in Bovine Health Sponsored by: Moly Manufacturing [https://www.molymfg.com/] Central Life Sciences [https://www.centrallifesciences.com/] Medgene [https://medgenelabs.com/] Forge [https://forge-ind.com/]

Stellpflug Cattle Company Builds on a Century of Excellence Ahead of Their Second Annual Hereford and Angus Female Sale

For more than a century, Stellpflug Cattle Company has remained committed to producing practical, profitable cattle that work for commercial producers across the country. That commitment continues today as Andy Stellpflug and his family prepare for the Second Annual Hereford and Angus Female Sale, scheduled for July 24, 2026, at the ranch near Guernsey, Wyoming. On a recent episode of Genetics & The Gavel, I had the opportunity to visit with Andy Stellpflug about the operation's history, breeding philosophy, and the impressive lineup of females being offered this summer.  Founded in 1913 by Frank and Rebecca Stellpflug, Stellpflug Cattle Company has evolved into a respected fourth-generation seedstock operation known for producing elite Hereford and Angus genetics. Today, Andy and Theresa Stellpflug continue that legacy by combining industry-leading Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) with the kind of phenotype, structural soundness, and maternal value that commercial cattlemen demand. Built Around Commercial Profitability During our conversation, Andy discussed the operation's focus on producing cattle that create value throughout the beef supply chain. From carefully selected herd sires to a disciplined female program, the Stellpflug breeding philosophy centers on balancing performance, maternal strength, fertility, longevity, and visual appeal. The result is cattle designed not only to perform in the pasture but also to contribute measurable profitability for commercial producers. Whether producers are looking to add growth, improve maternal traits, strengthen replacement females, or increase overall herd consistency, the genetics developed at Stellpflug Cattle Company are built with real-world ranching conditions in mind. A Deep and Diverse Female Offering Andy expressed tremendous confidence in the depth and quality of this year's sale offering. Buyers attending the July 24 event will have the opportunity to evaluate an outstanding selection of females, including: * 45 Bred Angus Heifers * 20 Bred Hereford Heifers * 80 Angus and Hereford Pairs * Pick of the Heifers The sale represents one of the most complete offerings ever assembled by the ranch, featuring females backed by generations of proven genetics and carefully selected sire groups. According to Andy, the consistency throughout the offering directly reflects the program's long-term breeding objectives. These females are designed to become productive, efficient cows that generate value for years to come. More Than a Sale—An Experience In addition to the outstanding cattle, Stellpflug Cattle Company is creating an enjoyable event for customers and friends of the operation. The sale will be conducted at the ranch, allowing buyers to view the cattle in their working environment and gain a firsthand look at the program behind the offering. Additional sale information, including schedules, shipping arrangements, sale-day contacts, and videos, is available through the ranch. As a special bonus, all registered buyers will receive tickets to attend the world-famous Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo, adding another memorable element to an already exciting weekend in Wyoming. Mark Your Calendar If you're searching for proven Hereford and Angus females backed by over 100 years of seedstock excellence, this is a sale worth attending. Second Annual Hereford and Angus Female Sale Date: July 24, 2026 Location: Stellpflug Cattle Company Ranch 516 Guernsey Road Guernsey, Wyoming The offering includes: * 45 Bred Angus Heifers * 20 Bred Hereford Heifers * 80 Angus & Hereford Pairs * Pick of the Heifers I'd like to thank Andy Stellpflug for joining us on Genetics & The Gavel and for sharing the story behind this outstanding Wyoming cattle operation. We encourage producers looking to strengthen their herds with proven maternal genetics to take a serious look at what Stellpflug Cattle Company has assembled for this year's sale.   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/]

RanchBot Helps Producers Monitor Water Systems from Anywhere

One of the realities of ranching is that water never takes a day off. Whether you’re running cattle in the Texas Panhandle, the deserts of the Southwest, or the rolling hills of the Southeast, maintaining reliable water systems is one of the most important responsibilities in livestock production. While attending the Big Texas Event in Fort Worth, I had the opportunity to visit with Matthew Jesko of RanchBot, a company that is helping producers take much of the uncertainty out of water management through remote monitoring technology. Jesko serves as a Business Development Manager for RanchBot and covers much of Texas and Oklahoma. Raised around the cattle industry through his family’s commercial cow-calf operation near Dalhart, Texas, he understands firsthand the challenges producers face when it comes to managing water infrastructure across large acreages.  At its core, RanchBot is a remote water monitoring system designed specifically for agricultural producers. The concept is simple but powerful: rather than spending hours driving from tank to tank checking water levels, producers can monitor those systems from their phone, tablet, or computer. The technology was developed around a common problem in ranching. Most trips to check water end with everything working exactly as it should. However, the one time a producer doesn’t make that trip may be the time a tank runs dry, a well quits working, or livestock are put at risk. RanchBot aims to eliminate that uncertainty. Using satellite-powered technology, RanchBot monitors water levels and infrastructure in areas where traditional cellular service may not exist. Whether a water tank sits on a remote ranch in West Texas, a grazing allotment in New Mexico, or a pasture in Oklahoma, the system continues to communicate through satellite connectivity. The result is near real-time information delivered directly to the producer. If water levels drop unexpectedly, a well stops pumping, or another issue develops, RanchBot sends notifications so operators can respond before livestock are affected. That proactive approach can save producers time, fuel, labor, and potentially significant losses associated with water shortages. Beyond monitoring water levels, the system can also provide valuable insights into livestock behavior by tracking water usage patterns. Producers can identify changes in consumption and monitor activity around water sources, providing another layer of information about herd performance and management. One of the features that stands out is the simplicity of installation. According to Jesko, most RanchBot units can be installed in less than fifteen minutes without specialized tools, training, or technical expertise. The devices are designed to be practical for busy producers who need solutions that work without adding complexity to their operation. The RanchBot platform is accessible through both mobile and desktop applications, allowing producers to monitor multiple locations at once. Family members, ranch managers, employees, and trusted advisors can also be granted access to the system when needed. While water monitoring remains the foundation of the company, RanchBot’s technology extends far beyond stock tanks. The company also offers monitoring solutions for wells, weather stations, cameras, and other critical ranch infrastructure. As agriculture continues to adopt new technologies, tools like RanchBot are helping producers improve efficiency while maintaining peace of mind. Remote monitoring allows operators to spend less time checking systems that are working and more time focusing on the areas of the operation that require attention.For cattle producers managing large acreages, remote pastures, or multiple locations, that can translate into meaningful savings and better decision-making. After visiting with Matthew Jesko, it is clear that RanchBot’s mission is straightforward: help producers protect one of their most valuable resources by giving them better visibility into what’s happening on their ranch every day. In an industry where water is truly the lifeblood of the operation, having real-time information may be one of the most valuable tools a producer can have.   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/]