Dr. Caitlin Cadaret: Calving, Care, & Education | Ep. 120

In this special International Women’s Day episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Dr. Caitlin Cadaret, from Colorado State University, explores the importance of hands-on learning for shaping the next generation of beef industry professionals. From experiential learning in calving and neonatal care to understanding livestock stress thresholds and mitigation strategies, Dr. Cadaret shares her approach to bridging academic research with real-world beef production. Discover how maternal nutrition and stress can impact herds for generations and why practical education is key to advancing livestock management. Tune in now on all major platforms!"Maternal nutrient challenges affect offspring reproduction, from puberty to pregnancy, influencing herd efficiency for generations."Meet the guest: Dr. Caitlin Cadaret earned her Ph.D. in Stress Physiology and M.S. in Animal Sciences from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, after completing her B.S. in Animal Sciences at California State University, Chico. She currently serves as an Assistant Professor at Colorado State University, focusing on livestock stress, multigenerational impacts of maternal nutrition, and innovative teaching methods.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:31) Introduction(02:19) Stress thresholds in livestock(04:39) Multigenerational reproductive health(07:13) Defining stress in livestock(13:11) Student engagement in research(22:31) Enhancing hands-on learning(28:07) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- dsm-firmenich- Virbac- Lallemand- Pro Earth Animal Health- bioMérieux𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

In this special rerun episode of The Beef Podcast Show, we revisit our conversation with Jeff Smith, co-founder of Colorado Craft Beef, who shares the incredible journey of building a thriving direct-to-consumer beef brand. Jeff reveals the challenges and successes of acquiring a harvest facility, forming strategic partnerships with influential investors, and optimizing the beef supply chain. Discover how perseverance, innovative thought, and strategic alliances can turn obstacles into avenues for advancement and influence. Tune in on all major platforms!"We will have more ability to make a positive impact if we put all our assets behind both of us, working with the right team and impacting the industry."Meet the guest: Jeff Smith, co-founder of Colorado Craft Beef, holds a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Business and Management from Colorado State University. With over two decades of experience spanning private equity, sales management, and agriculture, Jeff’s entrepreneurial journey led to the founding of a thriving grassroots beef brand.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:14) Introduction(09:29) Big moves and growth strategies(12:29) Partnerships and its impact(15:42) Rural communities(23:51) Future operational plans(39:14) Challenges of the deal process(51:02) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Pro Earth Animal Health- dsm-firmenich- Lallemand- Virbac- bioMérieux𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Dr. Jessica Sperber, a feedlot extension specialist from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, explores key aspects of feedlot management and beef cattle nutrition. Dr. Sperber shares her insights on the differences in feedlot practices between the U.S. and Canada, the impact of different feeding strategies on cattle performance, and the significance of understanding carcass transfer. Don't miss the episode, available on all major platforms.P.S.: This episode was recorded in May 2024. Experior and MGA were not approved to be fed together at that time—that changed in November. Also, the fat cattle prices discussed in the episode may not reflect current values."Carcass transfer analysis reveals how much live weight gain is retained in the carcass, crucial for optimizing feedlot outcomes."Meet the guest: Dr. Jessica Sperber holds a Ph.D. in Ruminant Nutrition from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and an M.S. in Meat Science from West Texas A&M University. She is an Assistant Professor and Feedlot Extension Specialist at UNL, focusing on feedlot performance, carcass outcomes, and technologies to enhance beef production efficiency. With a diverse background in cow/calf operations and a passion for sustainable beef production, Dr. Sperber brings a wealth of knowledge to the industry.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:33) Introduction(05:37) Feedlot U.S. vs. Canada(09:17) Barley vs. corn in feed(12:49) Managing heifers vs. steers(24:05) Carcass transfer(32:58) Best practices for management(39:08) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Pro Earth Animal Health- bioMérieux- Lallemand- dsm-firmenich- Virbac𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Dr. Zachary Smith from South Dakota State University breaks down the role of steroidal implants in beef production. He covers key topics like implant timing, growth efficiency, carcass quality, and FDA regulations, offering practical tips to help maximize returns in cattle finishing systems. Dr. Smith also takes a closer look at using implants throughout all stages of production, discussing the trade-offs from ranch to harvest. Don’t miss this insightful conversation—listen now on your favorite podcast platform!"Steroidal implants have been safely used in beef production for nearly 70 years, improving cattle growth efficiency and optimizing resource use."Meet the guest: Dr. Zachary Smith, an Associate Professor of Animal Science at South Dakota State University, specializes in the nutrition and management of fed beef cattle from weaning to harvest. Since 2018, he has mentored graduate students to degree completion, published 71 peer-reviewed journal articles, contributed over 100 abstracts, and authored a book chapter. With more than $4.3 million in research funding, cattle feeders worldwide have widely adopted Dr. Smith's findings.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:32) Introduction(02:01) Implant history(03:12) Implant timing phases(12:20) Carcass quality(13:34) FDA regulations(29:27) Remarks on implants(31:27) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Virbac- Pro Earth Animal Health- bioMérieux- Lallemand- dsm-firmenich𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Dr. Warren Rusche, Assistant Professor and Extension Beef Feedlot Management Specialist at South Dakota State University, explores the integration of crops and livestock—a cornerstone of sustainable beef production. From making the most of home-raised feedstuffs to refining silage strategies, Dr. Rusche unpacks practical ways producers can boost efficiency and profitability. Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform!"The beauty of beef production is how we take co-products, crop residues, and byproducts to create high-quality protein for human consumption."Meet the guest: Dr. Warren Rusche is an Assistant Professor and Extension Beef Feedlot Management Specialist at South Dakota State University. He earned his M.S. in Animal Science from Kansas State University and his Ph.D. in Animal Science from South Dakota State University. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Rusche focuses on helping beef producers improve efficiency, sustainability, and profitability. What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:12) Introduction(05:12) Integrated crop-livestock systems(12:12) Homegrown feedstuff strategies(18:42) Biofuels & protein supplementation(26:55) Corn vs. sorghum silage(35:52) Future of cattle finishing systems(38:47) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- dsm-firmenich- Pro Earth Animal Health- Virbac- bioMérieux- Lallemand𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Dr. David Bohnert, Director of the Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center, breaks down practical strategies for tightening calving distribution in beef cattle operations. He covers the economic impact of calving intervals, the importance of nutritional management for cows and bulls, and the role of estrus synchronization tools. Listen now on all major platforms!"Managing calving distribution can save producers $120 to $240 per cow annually."Meet the guest: Dr. David Bohnert, Director of the Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center and Professor at Oregon State University, holds a Ph.D. in Ruminant Nutrition from the University of Kentucky, along with a B.S. and M.S. in Animal Science from Angelo State University. With over 25 years of research and leadership, Dr. Bohnert specializes in beef production systems, focusing on strategies to improve efficiency. A recipient of multiple awards, Dr. Bohnert has secured over $4 million in funding for research and extension programs. He currently serves as President of the Western Section of the American Society of Animal Science. What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:31) Introduction(02:02) Managing calving distribution(05:55) Economic impact of calving(10:21) Synchronization tools overview(16:53) Combining AI and natural service(22:01) Addressing producer challenges(26:21) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- bioMérieux- Pro Earth Animal Health- dsm-firmenich- Virbac- Bioverse𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Dr. Phillip Lancaster from Kansas State University shares valuable insights on improving beef cattle efficiency. He talks about his recent work modeling the findings of the 1994 Jenkins paper, which examined the relationship between nutrition and genetics. Dr. Lancaster also discusses the influence of cow size and milk production on the sustainability and profitability of the beef cattle industry. Tune in to explore genetic strategies and environmental adaptations that can help boost cattle performance!"Our computer model simulates cow herds over the years to evaluate the best-suited cows for different nutritional environments."Meet the guest: Dr. Phillip Lancaster, Clinical Assistant Professor at Kansas State University, was born and raised on a livestock and crop farm in west-central Illinois. He earned his B.S. in Agricultural Science from Western Illinois University, followed by an M.S. in Animal Science from the University of Missouri, and a Ph.D. in Ruminant Nutrition from Texas A&M University. With roles at Oklahoma State, Florida, and Missouri State, Dr. Lancaster focuses on sustainability in beef production.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:12) Introduction(01:45) Current Role(03:27) Beef efficiency modeling(07:02) Genetics & nutrition(16:29) Energy requirements(19:43) Industry-wide efficiency(27:12) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Pro Earth Animal Health- Virbac- dsm-firmenich- Bioverse- bioMérieux𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Dr. Karl Hoppe, from North Dakota State University, shares real-world advice for managing cattle in harsh winter conditions. From prepping your herd for freezing temperatures to fine-tuning nutrition, Dr. Hoppe offers straightforward, actionable guidance for beef producers. Learn how to balance feed strategies, protect herd health, and tackle tough challenges like North Dakota winters. Listen now on all major platforms."Preparing cattle for winter requires a six-month feeding plan to ensure they have the nutrients needed to maintain condition in the cold."Meet the guest: Dr. Karl Hoppe is a Livestock Systems Specialist at North Dakota State University with over 34 years of expertise in the beef cattle industry. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, a Master’s in Animal Science with a focus on Reproductive Physiology, and a Ph.D. in Animal Science specializing in Ruminant Nutrition, all from South Dakota State University.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:24) Introduction(01:24) Dr. Hoppe’s journey(04:14) Preparing for winter(07:43) Hay quality(11:16) Blizzard scenarios(19:24) Cold weather(26:49) Final questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Bioverse- Pro Earth Animal Health- Virbac- dsm-firmenich𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Dr. Nicholas Dias, from Kansas State University, discusses the effectiveness of estrous synchronization protocols in beef cattle. He highlights the importance of identifying the profile of females who perform better in these protocols and how we can develop low-cost, easy-to-adopt management strategies to improve fertility. Dr. Dias also addresses potential issues with the protocols that could reduce fertility, offering practical solutions to overcome these challenges. Listen now on all major platforms!"We saw a 9% improvement in conception rates with our acclimation strategy for heifers before synchronization."Meet the guest: Dr. Nicholas Dias is an Assistant Professor at Kansas State University, specializing in beef cattle reproduction and biotechnology. He holds a DVM from São Paulo State University in Brazil, a Master’s and a Ph.D. from Virginia Tech. Dr. Dias’ research focuses on improving reproductive efficiency through synchronization protocols, exploring the role of the vaginal microbiome, and developing smart-farm technologies.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:32) Introduction(01:55) Dr. Dias’ background(04:00) Synchronization protocols(06:09) Inflammatory effects(14:57) Temperament & fertility(23:07) Reproductive success(28:55) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- dsm-firmenich- Bioverse- Pro Earth Animal Health- Virbac𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Dr. Marcio Ladeira from the Federal University of Lavras in Brazil shares cutting-edge research on beef cattle nutrition and fetal programming. Discover innovative supplementation strategies for Brazil’s challenging dry season and their impact on beef quality, feedlot performance, and marbling. Dr. Ladeira breaks down how gene expression and management practices can enhance profitability and beef production. Listen now on all major platforms!"A study using vitamin A injections in pregnant cows at 250 days of gestation significantly improved the quality grade of their offspring."Meet the guest: Dr. Marcio Ladeira is a professor at the Federal University of Lavras in Brazil. With a degree in Animal Science from the Federal University of Viçosa and a Ph.D. in Animal Science from UFMG, Dr. Ladeira’s expertise spans nutrigenomics, feedlot performance, and beef quality improvement.What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:02) Introduction(02:16) Dr. Ladeira’s background(03:38) Fetal programming(06:10) Vitamin A on beef(17:16) Feedlot strategies(19:30) Brazilian market trends(30:50) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Virbac- dsm-firmenich- Bioverse- Pro Earth Animal Health𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Instagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show