Dr. Cecilia Rocha: Artificial Intelligence and Estrus Detection | Ep. 160

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Dr. Cecilia Rocha from the University of Missouri unpacks strategies for improving reproductive success in beef cattle operations. She explains the critical role of estrus detection, precision breeding, and the use of artificial intelligence tools, such as accelerometers and pedometers. Learn how early heat detection and synchronization protocols can significantly impact pregnancy rates. Tune in on all major platforms to enhance your reproductive management strategies."60% of your cows that show heat will become pregnant, and 20% of your cows that don't show heat will become pregnant."Meet the guest: Dr. Cecilia Rocha is an Assistant Research Professor in livestock systems at the University of Missouri. She earned her DVM from Santa Catarina Federal University, her M.S. from the University of Sao Paulo, and completed her Ph.D. at the University of Florida. Her current research focus is on artificial intelligence for estrus detection in beef operations, puberty attainment in beef heifers, and artificial insemination using gene-edited semen to optimize calf development.Click here to learn more:MU Southwest Research, Extension and Education Center Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:50) Introduction(13:20) Estrus detection precision(16:58) Heat expression importance(23:00) AI breeding technologies(27:50) Synchronization protocol insights(33:25) Artificial intelligence tools(37:10) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Lallemand* Pro Earth Animal Health* Applied Biotechnologies- 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. Blaine Ellison from Applied Biotechnologies explains the origin of the 21-day cortisol surge and why it remains a major challenge for beef cattle health and performance. He breaks down how this stress response disrupts glucose use, masks early illness, and drives setbacks for high-risk cattle. Dr. Ellison also shares insights from five years of research that led to a nutritional tool designed to neutralize this surge and support meaningful paybacks for producers. Listen now on all major platforms."Neutralizing the cortisol surge allows cattle to maintain positive performance instead of losing ground during the first weeks."Meet the guest: Dr. Blaine Ellison is president of Applied Biotechnologies and has served the cattle industry as a veterinarian for 45 years. His background spans dairy and beef consulting, technical service, and decades of work with cattle metabolism and stress physiology. His recent focus centers on understanding and managing the 21-day cortisol surge in high-risk beef and dairy cattle.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:49) Introduction(04:44) Cortisol surge basics(12:19) Glucose use shift(16:54) Managing stress events(22:49) QFA feeding approach(32:39) Payback outcomes(39:31) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Applied Biotechnologies* Lallemand* Pro Earth Animal Health- 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, Johnny Rogers, Extension Associate at North Carolina State University and Rogers Cattle Company owner, discusses the importance of adaptive grazing techniques and their role in improving livestock performance and soil health. He explains how interdependence between plants, animals, and the soil system enhances the sustainability of livestock farming. Johnny also shares insights from his work with the NC State Amazing Grazing Program and how collaboration with others can drive business success. Listen now on all major platforms!"We want producers to realize they’re part of the system—not just managing it—and their decisions affect every layer."Meet the guest: Johnny Rogers is the owner of Rogers Cattle Company LLC, where he manages a diverse livestock operation in Roxboro, North Carolina. Johnny is also the coordinator of the NC State Amazing Grazing Program, promoting sustainable grazing techniques and soil health. He holds a Master's in Animal Nutrition from NC State University and a Bachelor's in Animal Science from the University of Tennessee.Click here to learn more!Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:36) Introduction(03:26) Guest background(11:31) Grazing and soil health(19:35) Adaptive grazing techniques(27:26) Diversifying livestock operations(43:49) Benefits of interdependence(46:55) Closing thoughtsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Lallemand* Pro Earth Animal Health* Applied Biotechnologies- 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. Zeno Hubbert from dsm-firmenich explains the science and economics behind vitamin E supplementation in beef cattle. She discusses its critical role in meat quality, immune health, and reproduction, and how producers can optimize supplementation for both feedlot and breeding cattle. Learn how proper vitamin E levels translate into real value at the retail counter. Listen now on all major platforms!"We’re not just keeping animals out of Vitamin E deficiency. We’re optimizing productivity and ensuring long-term performance."Meet the guest: Dr. Zeno Hubbert is a Technical Expert for Ruminants at dsm-firmenich  Animal Nutrition & Health, with a PhD in Ruminant Nutrition from New Mexico State University and extensive global experience in feed manufacturing and animal nutrition. Her expertise focuses on optimizing vitamin nutrition, immune function, and production efficiency in beef systems.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!Dr. Mary Drewnoski & Dr. Stephanie Hansen: Vitamins & Beef Cattle | Ep. 81Dr. Kelley Neuhold: Liquid Feeds for Beef Cattle | Ep. 85John Klein: Top Cattle Nutrition Challenges | Ep. 127What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:09) Introduction(04:03) Vitamin E in feedlots(07:02) Optimal supplementation levels(11:23) Meat quality insights(23:14) Breeding herd nutrition(29:34) Practical advice for producers(35:54) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- dsm-firmenich* Lallemand* 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, Kevin Thibault from Gem State Angus Ranch explains how his operation evaluated and implemented new gut health practices within a seedstock program. He shares what motivated the change, how the protocols were applied, and the performance results observed so far. Learn how proactive herd management can improve calf health, breeding success, and overall profitability. Listen now on all major platforms!"The biggest thing we noticed was how quickly those calves responded to the first treatment. We didn’t need to retreat them, and recovery time improved by nearly 48 hours."Meet the guest: Kevin Thibault is a third-generation Angus seedstock producer and partner at Gem State Angus Ranch in Idaho. Managing the ranch’s daily operations, he focuses on improving herd genetics, optimizing reproductive performance, and enhancing overall beef quality through practical management systems.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!Kirk Sparkman: Cattle Feeding Strategies | Ep. 124Austin Klores: Hands-On Feedyard Challenges | Ep. 128What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:23) Introduction(05:53) Breeding program(14:25) Herd health focus(20:32) Calving management(33:03) Gut health benefits(36:38) Herd health tips(41:13) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Pro Earth Animal Health* Lallemand- 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. Melissa Jolly-Breithaupt from Lallemand Animal Nutrition discusses how cattle producers can optimize nutrition as they prepare for fall and winter. She explains how forage testing, probiotic live yeast supplementation, and strategic nutrition planning can improve herd performance and reproductive success. Get practical insights to enhance beef herd efficiency year-round. Listen now on all major platforms!"Adding a probiotic live yeast improves fiber digestibility, helping cows get more energy out of the same feed."Meet the guest: Dr. Melissa Jolly-Breithaupt holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Ruminant Nutrition from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a B.S. in Animal Sciences from Kansas State University. Now serving in Beef Technical Service at Lallemand Animal Nutrition, she brings rich expertise in nutrition strategy, forage evaluation, and feed optimization for cow/calf operations.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!Dr. Kip Karges: Spring Feeding Strategies | Ep. 126What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:41) Introduction(06:18) Fall nutrition challenges(08:35) Forage quality testing(15:24) Probiotic live yeast benefits(19:24) Body condition scoring(28:08) Feed supplementation planning(33:53) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Lallemand* Pro Earth Animal Health- 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. Adrian Barragan, Associate Research Professor and Extension Veterinarian at Penn State University, discusses key aspects of dam postpartum management and breeding strategies. He explains how to prevent common postpartum diseases like retained placenta and metritis while highlighting the importance of voluntary waiting periods, natural service, and synchronization protocols. Tune in to learn actionable solutions for beef production, available on all major platforms."Proper monitoring during calving season is critical to ensure the calf's survival and the dam's health."Meet the guest: Dr. Adrian Barragan is an Associate Research Professor and Extension Veterinarian at Penn State University, holding a DVM from the National University of La Plata, Argentina, and MS and PhD degrees in Veterinary Medicine from The Ohio State University.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:22) Introduction(05:55) Managing calving season(10:09) Postpartum care essentials(16:11) Importance of colostrum(24:00) Reproductive health strategies(31:00) Protocols overview(42:05) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Lallemand* 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. Zeno Hubbert from dsm-firmenich discusses how optimizing vitamin D can influence both cattle health and performance. She discusses how 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 supplementation can support muscle growth, immune resilience, and overall herd performance, even when cattle are raised outdoors. Learn about current research, industry practices, and practical strategies for ensuring optimal vitamin D status. Listen now on all major platforms!"Vitamin D is not an additive but an essential requirement for beef cattle, and I’m excited about the performance prospects on vitamin D optimization."Meet the guest: Dr. Zeno Hubbert earned her Ph.D. in Ruminant Nutrition from New Mexico State University and has extensive experience in both research and technical industry roles. Currently serving as Technical Expert in Ruminants at dsm-firmenich, she focuses on advancing beef nutrition with practical applications for producers. Her work spans vitamin optimization, immune function, and production efficiency. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!Dr. Kelley Neuhold: Liquid Feeds for Beef Cattle | Ep. 85John Klein: Top Cattle Nutrition Challenges | Ep. 127What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:34) Introduction(04:12) Vitamin D(06:24) Supplementation gaps(08:34) 25-hydroxyvitamin D3(17:59) Supplementation recommendations(24:42) Advice for producers(28:54) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like: dsm-firmenich* Lallemand* 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, James and Dawn Anderson of JBB/AL Herefords and Red Angus discuss how their multi-generational seedstock operation is adapting to current market trends while staying true to long-term goals. They share insights on herd health, protocols, locker beef programs, and building customer loyalty through consistency. Tune in now on all major platforms!"By adopting a gut health program with drenches and tubs, from calving to weaning, we might have doctored only five calves total, which drastically reduced labor and costs."Meet the guest: James and Dawn Anderson operate JBB/AL Herefords and Red Angus, a family-run seedstock ranch in Gooding, Idaho, in business since 1967. With an emphasis on breeding sound Red Angus and Hereford cattle, they also manage a progressive AI and embryo transfer program, along with a growing locker beef business.Click here to learn more!Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!Kirk Sparkman: Cattle Feeding Strategies | Ep. 124Austin Klores: Hands-On Feedyard Challenges | Ep. 128What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:25) Introduction(02:28) Operation structure(11:10) Calf health strategy(14:39) Health protocol overview(20:25) Adapting to market prices(27:05) Future goals(29:29) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Pro Earth Animal Health* 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

As we celebrate World Food Day tomorrow, this episode of The Beef Podcast Show features Dr. Rhonda Miller, Professor at Texas A&M University, who explains the sensory science behind beef quality and consumer perception. She breaks down how flavor, tenderness, and juiciness are evaluated, and how research links these traits to genetics and production methods. Listen now on all major platforms!"Our research helped the industry develop tools by showing that tenderness matters to consumers and identifying the sources of variation, both biochemically and genetically."Meet the guest: Dr. Rhonda Miller earned her B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in Animal Science from Colorado State University, specializing in Meat Science. As a Professor at Texas A&M University, her research focuses on beef palatability, composition, and shelf-life. With decades of experience and over 300 product innovations in the meat industry, she brings a research-driven lens to sensory evaluation in beef cattle.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(00:31) Introduction(05:30) Priority for consumers(10:30) Tenderness improvements(23:15) Understanding texture in beef(26:20) Ground beef preferences(35:00) Future of consumer preferences(45:57) Closing thoughtsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Lallemand* 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