176. Building Iron Root Pastures from Backyard Chickens to Raw Milk Dairy with Ernie Mathes

In this episode of the Grazing Grass Podcast, Cal talks with Ernie Mathis of Iron Root Pastures in Rising Fawn, Georgia. Ernie shares how he went from suburban New Jersey roots and metro Atlanta life to traveling the U.S. in an RV and finally settling on a dilapidated cow-calf farm to pursue a regenerative, multi-species livestock operation. He discusses starting with backyard broilers, managing raw milk production from his herd of Jerseys, raising pigs and poultry on organic, soy-free and corn-free feed, and why he’s adding rabbits next. Ernie also walks through his portable milking parlor setup, calf-sharing system, and lessons learned in farm infrastructure, grazing systems, and marketing directly to health-focused consumers.Topics CoveredWhy and how Ernie and his family left metro life for farm lifeStarting with 10 backyard broilers and progressing to pasture poultryTransitioning from RV life to settling on a 225-acre propertyDeveloping a direct-to-consumer market with chiropractic clinicsRaising soy-free, corn-free fed chickens, pigs, and layersBuilding a portable milking setup for 8 Jersey cowsImplementing calf sharing with a custom calf shelterUsing belted Galloways and moving toward more heat-tolerant breedsPlans for integrating rabbits and sheepThoughts on A2 milk, sexed semen, and dual-purpose livestockManaging pastures and daily moves using simple infrastructureIf you’ve ever wondered how to go from urban homesteader to full-time grazier, Ernie’s story will inspire and inform you. His creative infrastructure, practical solutions for milking in the pasture, and strong values around health and transparency in food production make this a great episode for new farmers, aspiring dairy graziers, or anyone looking to build a regenerative, direct-to-consumer business. Whether it’s a discussion on milking schedules or raw milk laws, there’s something here for everyone walking a similar path.Resources MentionedIron Root PasturesKentucky Organics (feed mill)Justin Rhodes YouTube ChannelWhite Oak Pastures (Rabbitat project)Visit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmondGrazing Grass LinksNew Listener Resource GuideProvide feedback for the podcastWebsiteInsidersResourcesCommunity (on Facebook)Check out the Apiary Chronicles PodcastChapters

In this episode, we head to Zambia to talk with Doug Badcock of Green Lid Enterprises. Doug shares his journey from managing a diverse crop and livestock farm to developing a passion for grazing and livestock management. Situated just miles from the Congo border, Doug discusses the realities of ranching in Zambia’s unique environment—from tropical grasses and fires to high-density grazing and breeding Boran and Angoni cattle. His openness about trial, error, and continual improvement makes this a valuable conversation for graziers everywhere.Topics Covered:Transitioning from conventional to regenerative grazingGrazing livestock near the Congo borderUsing electric fencing in remote areasManaging forage through fire and seasonal rainfallAdjusting calving and breeding seasonsAdapting cattle breed selection to local conditionsHigh-density grazing: when it works and when it hurtsForage management with bananas and corn stalksDifferences between Boran, Sussex, Angoni, and other African breedsUsing line breeding and natural selection in herd developmentDoug Badcock brings a unique perspective to the Grazing Grass Podcast from his farm in Zambia. His willingness to share both successes and challenges—from learning to manage tropical forage to selecting the right breeds for his environment—makes this episode a global look at regenerative grazing principles. Whether you farm in Oklahoma or Africa, you’ll find inspiration and insight in Doug’s honest storytelling and deep curiosity for continual improvement.Resources Mentioned:Green Lid Enterprises Facebook & YouTube: https://youtube.com/@green_lid_enterprises?si=elTGbGeGCylwOuSNhttps://www.facebook.com/share/192BW7WRNN/https://www.instagram.com/green_lid_enterprises?igsh=b2V5OHAwMmk0eG1oJohan Zietsman's book Man, Cattle and VeldCalvin Birioti's YouTube video featuring Doug’s farm Visit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmondGBT AngusGrazing Grass LinksNew Listener Resource GuideProvide feedback for the podcastWebsiteInsidersResourcesCommunity (on Facebook)Check out the Apiary Chronicles PodcastChapters

In this episode of the Grazing Grass Podcast, we're joined by Jeff Siewicki of Vital Mission Farm in South Carolina. Jeff shares his journey from raising 25 chickens for personal use to building a thriving regenerative poultry business focused on pasture-raised ducks and turkeys. With a background in science and no prior farming experience, Jeff candidly discusses how he learned everything from scratch—facing the steep learning curves of pasture poultry, selling wholesale to top chefs, and ultimately pivoting to a hyperlocal subscription-based model for direct-to-consumer sales.Topics Covered:Starting with chickens, transitioning to ducks and turkeysChallenges and benefits of pasture-raised poultryLessons from selling wholesale to restaurants pre-COVIDPivoting during the pandemic to direct-to-consumer salesCreating value-added products like duck prosciutto and pet treatsLaunching and refining a customized local subscription boxOnline marketing and building an effective digital storefrontAdvice for farmers on capturing leads and converting salesWhy You Should Listen: If you're a grass-based producer exploring poultry, value-added products, or direct-to-consumer models, this episode is packed with practical advice and real-world experience. Jeff doesn’t sugarcoat the hard lessons learned, but he also shares the wins—from building customer relationships at farmers markets to crafting a high-margin subscription service. Whether you’re looking to improve your margins, expand product offerings, or shift from wholesale to DTC, Jeff’s story is full of inspiration and actionable insights.Resources Mentioned:Vital Mission FarmRegenerative SuccessPremier1 Supplies (chick-safe netting)Visit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmondGBT AngusGrazing Grass LinksNew Listener Resource GuideProvide feedback for the podcastWebsiteInsidersResources (Coming Soon)Community (on Facebook)Check out the Apiary Chronicles PodcastChapters

Riki Kremers joins us from Kremers Ranch in Lance Creek, Wyoming, where she and her family manage 8,000 acres of rough, arid country with Angus-cross cattle, horses, and meat goats. Together with her husband and daughter, Riki has transitioned their operation from traditional set-stock grazing to a powerful combination of Instinctive Migratory Grazing (IMG) and Planned Migratory Grazing (PMG), doubling their stocking rate and reducing feed inputs. With over 20 miles of water pipeline and an impressive track record of adapting to extreme environments, Riki shares hard-earned lessons on stockmanship, infrastructure, and letting nature lead the way. Topics CoveredHistory and evolution of Kremers RanchTransition from February to June calvingBuilding water infrastructure and pasture layoutChallenges with temporary fencing in brittle environmentsTransitioning to IMG and how it rebooted herd behaviorRole of stockmanship and learning from Bob Kin and Ian Mitchell-InnesManaging yearlings separately for summer and winter forage balanceCreating and using "insurance pastures"Shifts in forage species and pasture recovery timesIntegrating horses and four-wheelers into cattle managementWhy You Should ListenIf you're grazing in a brittle or arid environment—or frustrated with conventional rotational systems—Riki’s experience will resonate. She candidly walks us through her family’s grazing journey, showing how thoughtful stockmanship and intentional planning can unlock natural herd behavior and healthier land. Whether you’re looking to reduce feed, improve forage diversity, or double your stocking rate without burning out your pastures, this episode offers actionable wisdom grounded in real-world success.Resources MentionedInstinctive Migratory Grazing SchoolRiki Kremers on FacebookBob Kinford on the Grazing Grass PodcastBob Kinford – Instinctive Migratory GrazingVisit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmondGBT AngusGrazing Grass LinksNew Listener Resource GuideProvide feedback for the podcastWebsiteInsidersResources (Coming Soon)Community (on Facebook)Check out the Apiary Chronicles PodcastChapters(00:00) - Introduction and Fast Five with Riki Kramer (01:26) - History and Evolution of Kramer's Ranch (02:07) - Grazing Techniques and Challenges (04:57) - Record Keeping and Ranch Management (09:20) - Transition to Instinctive Migratory Grazing (IMG) (18:08) - Implementing and Refining IMG (33:07) - Stockmanship and Herd Behavior (40:26) - Understanding Animal Communication (40:38) - Four-Wheeler vs. Horseback Communication (42:00) - Benefits of IMG Grazing in Arid Environments (43:12) - Forage Quality and Species Changes (45:14) - Managing Cow Herds and Yearlings (50:50) - Insurance Pastures: A Safety Net for Grazing (56:10) - Upcoming Grazing School Details (01:03:42) - Famous Four Questions (01:14:56) - Conclusion and Takeaways

In this episode, we chat with Cherrie Nolden of Wonder Acres Farm, located in Dodgeville, Wisconsin. Cherrie shares her extensive experience with multi-species grazing, highlighting her innovative approaches to adaptive grazing management and pasture improvement. She discusses how she manages her Norwegian Fjord horses, sheep, goats, and livestock guardian dogs, emphasizing genetic selection for natural parasite resistance and efficient grazing practices. Cherrie also covers fencing strategies, transitioning horses from dry lots to rotational grazing, and maintaining healthy pastures through careful management.Topics discussed:Adaptive and rotational grazing strategiesGrazing management for horses, sheep, and goatsGenetic selection for parasite resistanceMulti-species grazing benefitsUsing electro-net fencing effectivelyDesigning and utilizing grazing lanesSustainable pasture improvement techniquesWhether you're managing horses, sheep, goats, or all of the above, Cherrie's insights will inspire you to optimize your grazing practices and improve your farm's overall productivity and sustainability.Resources mentioned:Wonder Acres Farm on FacebookWonder Acres Farm websiteWon Der Fjords on FacebookVisit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmondGBT AngusGrazing Grass LinksNew Listener Resource GuideProvide feedback for the podcastWebsiteInsidersResources (Coming Soon)Community (on Facebook)Check out the Apiary Chronicles PodcastChapters

In this episode, we chat with Alex from Chucktown Acres, a regenerative farm based in Charleston, South Carolina. Alex shares his transformation from suburban musician and Bible college student to full-time regenerative farmer. His journey includes a pivotal internship at Polyface Farms and eventually taking over an existing farm operation in coastal South Carolina. Alex now manages a thriving multi-species livestock operation and also teaches marketing to other farmers.Topics CoveredAlex’s health awakening and discovery of real foodThe shift from Bible college to aspiring farmerSecuring a highly competitive internship at Polyface FarmsWhat life and work were like at PolyfaceStarting and rebranding Chucktown AcresRaising grass-fed beef, Berkshire hogs, broilers, laying hens, turkeys, and moreAdjusting practices for regional predator pressure in South CarolinaUsing and recommending Kiwi Tech posts and Gallagher reelsBuilding a direct-to-consumer business with Barn2Door and weekly email marketingOffering internships for local youth interested in sustainable agNavigating social media and customer communicationEquipment preferences and gear talk (O’Brien vs. Kiwi Tech)Whether you’re just starting your regenerative journey or looking to refine your marketing and multi-species operation, Alex’s story is a valuable one. He didn’t grow up farming and didn’t inherit land—but he found a way through passion, grit, and practical action. His take on internships, rebranding, and building customer relationships through authentic marketing is inspiring and actionable. Plus, there’s plenty of great gear talk for graziers who love comparing reels and posts.Resources MentionedPolyface FarmsBooks & Authors:Folks, This Ain’t Normal by Joel SalatinDirt to Soil by Gabe BrownWorks by Greg Judy, Alan Savory, Will HarrisBarn2Door – eCommerce for farmersRedmond AgricultureNoble Research Institute CoursesKiwi Tech Posts – Available at Ken CoveGallagher reels, O’Brien posts, and other fencing gearVisit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmondGBT AngusGrazing Grass LinksNew Listener Resource GuideProvide feedback for the podcastWebsiteInsidersResources (Coming Soon)Community (on Facebook)Check out the Apiary Chronicles PodcastChapters(00:00) - Introduction and Quickfire Questions (01:58) - Welcome to the Grazing Grass Podcast (03:36) - Alex's Journey to Farming (05:15) - Discovering the World of Health Food (06:56) - From Bible College to Farming Aspirations (15:57) - Internship at Polyface Farms (42:06) - Starting Chucktown Acres (45:17) - Starting the Farming Journey (45:56) - A Fortunate Break (46:59) - Taking Over the Farm (48:33) - Rebranding and Relocating (49:50) - Challenges and Adaptations (53:30) - Marketing and Sales Strategies (57:29) - Social Media and Marketing Challenges (59:49) - Advice for New Farmers (01:12:05) - The Importance of Farmer's Markets (01:14:19) - Famous Four Questions (01:19:52) - Final Thoughts and Resources

Dusty Baker of Cross Timbers Bison joins us on the Grazing Grass Podcast to share his journey from city life to raising bison full time in Sulphur, Oklahoma. With a background in wildlife ecology and a deep appreciation for the nearby Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Dusty took the leap into bison ranching during the pandemic, starting out on an old dairy farm. Since then, he’s poured his passion into building a thriving herd and managing his land with regenerative practices that benefit both the soil and the animals.In this episode, we dig into:Dusty’s transition from city life to bison ranchingHow he adapted a former dairy into a working bison operationThe challenges of fencing and handling these powerful animalsHis approach to regenerative grazing and land stewardshipThoughts on bison genetics and today’s bison meat marketLessons learned from experimenting with multi-species grazingStraightforward advice for anyone looking to get into bison ranchingIf you’re curious about bison, regenerative grazing, or just love hearing a good ranching story, you won’t want to miss this one. Dusty’s experience offers practical tips and a real-world look at the ups and downs of raising these incredible animals.Links Mentioned in the EpisodeCross Timbers Bison Ranch Cross Timbers Bison on YouTubeThis is Oklahoma Podcast with Dusty BakerVisit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmondGBT AngusGrazing Grass LinksNew Listener Resource GuideProvide feedback for the podcastWebsiteInsidersResources (Coming Soon)Community (on Facebook)Check out the Apiary Chronicles PodcastOriginal Music by Louis PalfreyChapters(00:00) - Introduction and FAST Five (00:23) - Welcome to the Grazing Grass Podcast (02:01) - Farm Updates and Teeter Farm Tech Gates (03:06) - Web Tinkering and Community Projects (05:24) - Interview with Dusty Baker Begins (05:47) - Dusty's Journey with Bison (16:57) - Challenges and Learnings in Bison Farming (21:59) - Transition to Full-Time Farming During COVID (29:29) - Starting a YouTube Channel (35:25) - Regenerative Practices on a Bison Ranch (45:05) - Transition to Overgrazing (45:59) - Redmond Agriculture Ad (46:56) - Getting Started with Bison (47:49) - Fencing and Keeping Bison Happy (50:25) - Bison Genetics and Breeding (57:32) - Bison Meat Market and Business (01:00:21) - Challenges with Multi-Species Grazing (01:11:34) - Cooking Bison Meat (01:14:00) - Famous Four Questions (01:25:48) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Nick Jackson and Sarah Mahan recently embarked on a transformative journey from Atkinson, Maine, to Healy, Kansas, to pursue regenerative agriculture. Their passion for soil health and sustainable farming practices led them to transition from market gardening to livestock farming. With backgrounds in organic agriculture and compost production, they have drawn inspiration from influential thinkers like Alan Savory to enhance their approach to farming. Their story is not just about agriculture but also about personal growth, community support, and family dynamics as they navigate their new life in Kansas.Topics covered in this episode:Introduction to regenerative agriculture and Nick and Sarah's backgroundTransition from market gardening to livestock farmingInfluence of thinkers like Alan Savory on their practicesHistorical and ecological evolution of agriculture in MaineChallenges and emotional aspects of relocating from Maine to KansasManaging livestock in a new environment and adapting to local conditionsExperiences with flash floods and community supportInsights into grazing strategies and sustainable farming techniquesFamily dynamics and working with loved ones in a farming contextListeners should tune in to this podcast episode to gain a comprehensive understanding of regenerative agriculture through the real-life experiences of Nick and Sarah. Their journey is both inspiring and educational, offering practical insights into sustainable farming practices and the resilience required to adapt to new environments. Whether you're an established farmer or someone new to the field, their story provides valuable lessons in managing cash flow, embracing change, and maintaining a sustainable lifestyle. The episode also offers a rich tapestry of historical and ecological perspectives, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of agriculture, sustainability, and personal growth.Links Mentioned in the EpisodeVisit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmondGBT AngusGrazing Grass LinksNew Listener Resource GuideProvide feedback for the podcastWebsiteInsidersResources (Coming Soon)Community (on Facebook)Check out the Apiary Chronicles PodcastOriginal Music by Louis PalfreyChapters(00:00) - Introduction and Fast Five (00:50) - Welcome to the Grazing Grass Podcast (01:25) - Noble Research Institute Courses (02:28) - Starting the Regenerative Journey (06:01) - Transitioning to Livestock (08:34) - Challenges and Strategies in Farming (17:15) - Maine's Agricultural Landscape (25:57) - Moving to Kansas: A New Beginning (42:37) - Airbnb Adventures and Meeting Greg (43:59) - Selling Everything and Moving to Kansas (45:37) - Challenges and Changes in Kansas (48:45) - Custom Grazing and Scaling Up (52:15) - Managing Sheep and Steers (01:04:47) - Favorite Resources and Tools (01:09:51) - Working with Family and Final Thoughts

Jason Schoenfelder, a passionate advocate for sustainable cattle farming, is our featured guest. Raised on the sun-soaked ranches of Southeast Arizona, Jason's journey took him to the verdant pastures of Northeast Oregon, where he has embraced innovative, pasture-based cattle finishing operations. Influenced by the revolutionary ideas of Allen Savory, Jason is dedicated to enhancing rangeland health and crafting economically sustainable models in the cattle industry. His commitment to high animal welfare standards and innovative grazing techniques makes him a beacon of responsible and eco-friendly ranching.Topics covered in this episode:Jason's upbringing and introduction to rotational grazing in Southeast ArizonaTransition to pasture-based cattle finishing in Northeast OregonThe influence of Allen Savory and holistic management practicesChallenges and successes in the cattle industryImplementation of regenerative agriculture through the Grazewell programPasture management techniques, including strategic crop rotationsInsights into maintaining soil health and resource management, especially waterImportance of retaining ownership in cattle breeding for profitabilityConsumer demand for high-quality, sustainably produced beefCooperative models like Country Natural Beef and their impact on sustainable practicesListeners should tune in to this episode to gain a deeper understanding of sustainable cattle farming practices and the challenges and rewards of pasture-based operations. Jason Schoenfelder's journey offers valuable insights into the intricate balance required in resource management and innovative approaches to cattle feeding. Whether you are a seasoned rancher or an aspiring one, this episode provides practical guidance and inspiration for producing quality beef responsibly. By exploring themes of ecological balance and sustainability, Jason's story encourages listeners to embrace forward-thinking practices that benefit both the land and the beef industry.Links Mentioned in the EpisodeNorthwest Pasture Beef Country Natural Beef Visit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmondGBT AngusGrazing Grass LinksNew Listener Resource GuideProvide feedback for the podcastWebsiteInsidersResources (Coming Soon)Community (on Facebook)Check out the Apiary Chronicles PodcastOriginal Music by Louis PalfreyChapters(00:00) - Introduction and Fast Five with Jason Schoenfelder (01:28) - Jason's Background and Grazing Journey (02:34) - Welcome to the Grazing Grass Podcast (03:09) - Noble Research Institute Courses (04:11) - Cal's Grazing Update (05:28) - Join the Grazing Grass Community (05:58) - Jason's Early Career and Experiences (13:23) - Transition to Beef Northwest Feeders (16:10) - Understanding GAP Standards (23:02) - Pasture Finishing Program Details (29:48) - Country Natural Beef Cooperative (35:38) - Ownership and Financial Ramifications for Ranchers (36:53) - Grading and Market Value of Cattle (40:38) - Introduction to Grazewell Program (44:27) - Grazewell Program Details and Implementation (49:41) - Country Natural Beef and Market Reach (50:44) - Final Thoughts and Advice for Ranchers (53:42) - Famous Four Questions (01:02:41) - Podcast Goals and Listener Engagement

Karson Rippstein is a rancher from The Ripp Ranch in central Utah. His family's involvement in the industry dating back to the late 1800s. Karson has effectively combined traditional ranching methods with innovative practices, transforming undervalued plots of land into a thriving and sustainable cattle business. His journey is marked by resilience, creativity, and a commitment to sustainable grazing techniques, which have allowed his family's ranch to prosper even on less desirable land.Topics covered in this episode:Family ranching and grazing land utilizationBuilding a beef herd on undervalued landExpanding cattle ranching through the formation of an LLCFamily communication and transparency in ranchingTransitioning to low-input cattle ranchingChallenges of public lands grazing and breedingRedmond's approach to mineral supplementationNuances of mineral supplementation in cattle nutritionRecommended resources and tools for ranch managementListeners should tune into this episode to gain valuable insights into modern cattle ranching and sustainable grazing practices. Karson Rippstein's story offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing how resilience and strategic decision-making can lead to success in the cattle industry. Whether you're a seasoned rancher or new to the field, Karson's experiences and practical advice provide inspiration and guidance for anyone looking to improve their ranching operations. His focus on collaboration, efficient land use, and natural supplementation offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in modern ranching.Links Mentioned in the EpisodeRipp Ranch on YouTubeVisit our Sponsors:Noble Research InstituteRedmondGBT AngusGrazing Grass LinksNew Listener Resource GuideProvide feedback for the podcastWebsiteInsidersResources (Coming Soon)Community (on Facebook)Check out the Apiary Chronicles PodcastOriginal Music by Louis PalfreyChapters(00:00) - Introduction to Ranching with Family (00:10) - Fast Five with Karson Rippstein (01:38) - Welcome to the Grazing Grass Podcast (03:04) - Electric Fence Challenges (06:24) - Karson's Ranching Journey (08:01) - Starting with Small Herds (23:38) - Forming the Family LLC (34:16) - Shifting to Low Input Cows (41:40) - Understanding Public Land Grazing (42:45) - Grazing on Public Land: Permits and Challenges (45:43) - Managing Cattle Breeding on Shared Grazing Lands (46:28) - Adapting Calving Seasons for Better Efficiency (51:34) - Innovative Grazing Practices and Virtual Fencing (52:52) - Extending Grazing Seasons for Profitability (54:31) - Introduction to Redmond Agriculture (56:47) - Redmond's Unique Mineral Products (01:00:46) - Philosophy on Mineral Supplementation (01:16:32) - Famous Four Questions (01:20:21) - Practical Tips for New Ranchers