Roots + Ruminants

Fall harvest is moving fast, and wet conditions and strong growth are keeping producers on their toes across the Midwest. Justin and Jared dig into what’s happening in the field, from alfalfa cutting and cover crops, to how lush pastures are shaping plans after corn harvest. They also take a closer look at some of the challenges cattle producers are currently facing, including growing pressure on grazing acres and a livestock risk-management tool for bred heifers. Plus, Jared shares an update on his "farming experiment." There’s a lot happening this fall. Give it a listen!

Jared and Justin dive in to the newly-introduced Rebuilding America’s National Cow Herd (RANCH) Act, spearheaded by U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.). The RANCH Act would create a voluntary program to turn more land into usable grazing ground for cattle, with a goal to open up as many as 20 million acres for grazing. Plus, it’s not an episode of Roots + Ruminants without some fun farming stories, and this episode did not disappoint. Tune in to hear how Jared is conducting his own experiment on his herd to see if he can productively turn out twin calves by implanting embryos in pregnant cows. 

After a couple of weeks away, the guys are back with a snapshot of their summers so far. Honestly, who knows what direction the conversation is going to go! In this episode, they're catching up on life during their hiatus, sharing market updates, and discussing what's ahead for the rest of the summer. Tune in if you're looking for something to listen to over the upcoming holiday weekend!

The guys are back this week with plenty to cover! Justin shares highlights from his recent trip to Mexico to judge a sheep show. They also dive into all things sheep, livestock disease concerns, and the latest market updates. Give it a listen!

This week, Jared and Justin are in the spring state of mind. With the weather (hopefully) warming up, they dive into cattle talk, plans for this spring, and how they’re gearing up for the season. They also touch on some hot topics in ag right now and share updates on the different AgSpire programs they’re enrolled in. Tune in for a laid-back spring catch-up!

Our guest this week, Ryan Gravenhof, is a Minnesota farmer who shares how he is using cattle collars to transform grazing management and reduce labor on his operation. These GPS collars allow him to create virtual fences and quickly locate animals without relying on traditional fencing. Jared and Justin talk with him about everything from grazing cover crops in low traffic fields to managing escaped livestock with precision. Give the episode a listen!

On this week's episode, hear Jared and Justin discuss what’s happening around the world and how current events could impact input prices moving forward. They also share a quick spring catch up before shifting gears to something a little more fun, talking meat and getting the grill fired up as warmer weather rolls in. Tune in for the latest market talk and a laid back conversation as we head into spring!

The guys are back with their first guest of the year, Garrett Masat! He breaks down how he built his herd into a successful cattle operation and shares insights on increasing herd value, controlling costs, and navigating changing markets. Whether you're just getting started or an experienced rancher, you won’t want to miss this episode.

 Back by popular demand, Jared and Justin return to their regularly scheduled (most of the time) recordings. In this episode, they break down winter livestock feeding, including how grazing still plays a role, which feed types they use, and practical strategies to maintain performance during the cold months. Sit back and listen in! 

Join hosts Justin Fruechte and Jared Knock as they return from a hiatus with the annual New Year’s Predictions podcast. The duo revisits their predictions from this time last year and shares new predictions for the year ahead. Tune in as they reflect on their analysis and share what’s next for the podcast. We know you’ve missed Roots + Ruminants, so be sure to give this episode a listen!