Dr. Marta Kohmann: Cover Crops and Soil Health | Ep. 172

In this episode of The Beef Podcast Show, Dr. Marta Kohmann, Assistant Professor of Forage Systems Agroecology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, explains how cover crops and alfalfa management influence soil health, nutrient cycling, and forage productivity. She discusses nitrogen fixation, cereal rye allelopathy, nutrient removal in harvested systems, and equipment impacts on soil compaction. Learn how to match crops to cattle needs and improve system resilience. Listen now on all major platforms!“Cover crops provide multiple benefits, including nutrient cycling, soil protection, and weed suppression, making them a valuable tool in grain and forage systems across diverse environments.”Meet the guest: Dr. Marta Kohmann is an Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist in Forage Systems Agroecology at the University of Wisconsin Madison. She earned her PhD in Agronomy from the University of Florida and focuses on perennial pastures, alfalfa, and cover crops managed for persistence and production. Her work integrates soil health, nutrient management, and forage systems for beef and dairy operations. Click here to read the full research article!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(07:19) Cover crop benefits(12:10) Nitrogen fixation explained(19:00) Rye allelopathy research(33:24) Nutrient removal findings(39:13) Soil compaction impact(43:29) Final QuestionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Pro Earth Animal Health* Applied Biotechnologies* Boehringer Ingelheim- dsm-firmenich- Rangen Group- Farmatan- Virbac- DietForge𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 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. Daniel Cummings from Heritage Vet Partners explains the complexities of parasite control in beef cattle operations. He highlights the differences between parasite classes, application strategies, and the economic impacts of mismanagement. Learn how to optimize deworming protocols, identify resistance risks, and improve animal performance through intentional decisions. Listen now on all major platforms!"Parasites compete directly with those nutrients in the intestinal tract, impacting gain and immune function through hormonal changes and appetite suppression."Meet the guest: Dr. Daniel Cummings is the Vice President of Clinical Operations at Heritage Vet Partners, where he leads clinical practice, research, and technical support focused on beef cattle in the Southeastern U.S. With a DVM from Auburn University and years of industry experience, Dr. Cummings specializes in preventive medicine and reproductive efficiency.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!Dr. Jessica Newberry: Vaccine Storage TipsDr. Rob Hunter: Veterinary Pharmaceutical Approval Dr. Brandi Karisch: Boosting Herd ImmunityWhat you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(02:06) Introduction(04:21) Parasite control importance(08:36) Application method options(12:58) Resistance management(15:18) Choosing parasite control options(24:05) Grazing management role(27:25) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Virbac* Pro Earth Animal Health* Applied Biotechnologies* Boehringer Ingelheim- DietForge- dsm-firmenich- Rangen Group- Farmatan𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 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, Paul Mitchell from Imogene Ingredients shares how specialty ingredients can support cow and calf health in the beef cattle industry. Drawing from his background in cow-calf systems and animal nutrition solutions, Paul explains the science behind the Clean Cow and Clean Calf program and its impact on colostrum quality, gut health, and calf survival. He highlights practical nutrition strategies that improve herd performance while supporting responsible production. Listen now on all major platforms to learn how nutrition can drive healthier beef cattle operations!"What we are really doing is slowing down the passage of protein and knocking down Clostridium, which is beneficial for the cow."Meet the guest: Paul Mitchell is the Managing Partner at Imogene Ingredients, where he focuses on sourcing specialty ingredients to improve animal nutrition in the beef cattle industry. Raised in a cow-calf and milling operation in Ireland, he brings more than 20 years of leadership experience across product development and business strategy. Paul holds degrees in economics, environmental science, and business. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:46) Introduction(07:11) Program overview(09:59) Ingredient science(18:13) Colostrum benefits(21:36) Gut health effects(28:46) Cow calf outcomes(40:51) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- Farmatan* Applied Biotechnologies* Pro Earth Animal Health* Boehringer Ingelheim- dsm-firmenich- Rangen Group- Virbac- DietForge𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 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. Eugene Janzen from the University of Calgary breaks down how bovine respiratory disease has shifted in feedlot systems. He explains pathogen changes, the impact of co-mingling, and how modern data tools have reshaped pen riding and treatment decisions. Hear practical insights that matter for anyone managing cattle health in commercial yards. Listen now on all major platforms."Respiratory disease in the bovine feed yard has changed significantly as pathogens shift and new challenges emerge."Meet the guest: Dr. Eugene Janzen is a professor emeritus of buiatrics at the University of Calgary Veterinary Medicine and a locum virtual diagnostician in feedlot practice. His career spans cow calf and feedlot health, respiratory disease dynamics, and epidemiologic challenges in modern beef systems. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:24) Introduction(04:43) BRD insights(07:09) Pathogen shifts(12:20) Co-mingling risks(17:39) Data advances(26:24) Future tech trends(33:04) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Boehringer Ingelheim* Applied Biotechnologies* Pro Earth Animal Health- dsm-firmenich- Rangen Group- Farmatan- Virbac- DietForge𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 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. Gregg Rentfrow from the University of Kentucky explains how retail beef cutting has evolved and why product size, convenience foods, and consumer cooking confidence continue to shape the beef marketplace. He also discusses Kentucky’s new Meat and Foods Industry Advancement Center and how it will support research, teaching, and extension. Listen now on all major platforms."A new meats laboratory must support industry evolution by offering adaptable spaces capable of meeting future processing, teaching, and research requirements."Meet the guest: Dr. Gregg Rentfrow earned his B.S. and M.S. in Meat Science from the University of Illinois and his Ph.D. in Meat Science and Muscle Biology from the University of Missouri. With expertise spanning retail cutting, muscle biology, teaching, and extension, his work supports meat processors, beef producers, and consumers through practical education and applied research. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(02:01) Introduction(02:59) Guest background(08:21) Retail cutting change(13:35) New meat lab(18:41) Research impact(38:34) Food education(44:28) Final questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Applied Biotechnologies* Pro Earth Animal Health* Boehringer Ingelheim- dsm-firmenich- Farmatan- Rangen Group- Virbac- DietForge𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 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. Tara Felix from Penn State University explains how beef-on-dairy has evolved and what current research reveals about genetics, early-life nutrition, and health challenges in beef-on-dairy progeny. She discusses industry gaps, including rumen development, early stressors, and risks of liver abscesses, and how collaborative research can strengthen performance across the supply chain. Listen now on all major platforms."Long-term progress in beef on dairy requires reliable calf performance data generated through cooperative research between industry partners and academic programs."Meet the guest: Dr. Tara L. Felix is an Associate Professor of Animal Science at Penn State University, where she serves as the Extension Beef Cattle Specialist. Her work focuses on applied research to support the beef cattle industry, with an emphasis on beef-on-dairy progeny, early-life nutrition, health, and carcass value. Her experience spans genetic selection, feeding systems, and supply chain efficiency.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:23) Introduction(02:41) Genetic insights(07:21) Growth and feeding(11:19) Advancing calf data(13:41) Improving efficiency(20:03) Industry direction(26:56) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Applied Biotechnologies* Pro Earth Animal Health- Virbac- DietForge- dsm-firmenich- Farmatan- Rangen Group𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 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. Kraig Peel from Adisseo breaks down how amino acid nutrition is opening new doors for efficiency in beef cattle systems. He covers nitrogen utilization, liver health, carcass value, and reproductive performance across cow-calf, stocker, and feedlot operations. Dr. Peel shares how targeted nutrient strategies can improve feed efficiency and biological response while supporting sustainability goals producers care about. Listen now on all major platforms!"If more metabolizable protein is available, animals can shift protein deposition toward lean tissue instead of excess fat."Meet the guest: Dr. Kraig Peel is the Commercial Beef Director at Adisseo, with extensive experience in beef cattle nutrition, production, and sustainability. He previously served as a faculty member at Colorado State University and continues teaching animal science courses. His work focuses on improving protein utilization, animal health, and environmental efficiency across beef systems. Like The Beef Podcast Show? Check out these episodes from The Dairy Podcast Show:Dr. Mark Hanigan: Balancing Amino Acids in Feed | Ep. 107Dr. Jennifer Spencer: Heifer Reproductive Management | Ep. 122Chad Robbins: Methionine, Forage and Transition Cow Health | Ep. 129Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:53) Introduction(03:48) Beef amino acid value(06:21) Carcass response data(09:09) Nitrogen efficiency(11:03) Hydroxy-selenomethionine(18:12) Moving into beef(23:46) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:Adisseo* Applied Biotechnologies* Pro Earth Animal Health- Virbac- DietForge- Farmatan- 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. Juliana Ranches from Oregon State University explores the science and practical applications behind virtual fencing in beef cattle production. She explains how the technology improves grazing precision and herd management while addressing animal welfare concerns and research gaps. Discover how behavior, physiology, and innovation intersect in beef cattle production. Listen now on all major platforms!"Virtual fencing allows precise grazing control, enabling land management flexibility far beyond what traditional fencing provides."Meet the guest: Dr. Juliana Ranches earned her M.S. and Ph.D. in Animal Sciences from the University of Florida and now serves as an Assistant Professor and Beef Extension Specialist at Oregon State University. Her research focuses on cattle nutrition, behavior, physiology, and technologies like virtual fencing to enhance beef production systems.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:41) Introduction(04:16) Virtual fencing benefits(06:36) Wildfire risk management(08:07) Research origins(12:41) Cattle welfare research(22:09) Future research directions(35:11) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Pro Earth Animal Health* Applied Biotechnologies- dsm-firmenich- Virbac- DietForge𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 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. W. Mark Hilton, a beef cow-calf consulting veterinarian, unpacks six key profit-boosting strategies every producer should be using right now. From herd genetics to calf implants, Dr. Hilton explains how data-driven decisions can lead to healthier herds, better efficiency, and long-term profitability. Listen now on all major platforms!"Producers can make between $600 and $1000 per head above market price through direct freezer beef sales."Meet the guest: Dr. W. Mark Hilton earned his BS in Animal Science and DVM from Purdue University. Board-certified in beef cattle practice and a Professional Animal Scientist, Dr. Hilton brings over four decades of experience to his role as a consulting veterinarian. His expertise spans herd health, nutrition, genetics, and economic sustainability in cow-calf systems.Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:34) Introduction(06:48) Freezer beef strategy(14:34) Crossbreeding returns(21:22) Calf preconditioning profit(27:24) Bull soundness testing(30:32) DNA in heifer selection(34:44) Implant programming(49:13) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Applied Biotechnologies* Pro Earth Animal Health- dsm-firmenich- Virbac- DietForge𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 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, Don Scarrow, a feedlot owner and operator, shares how he finishes cattle while using potato waste as his main starch source. He explains the challenges he faced early on with bloat and acidosis-related losses and the strategies that helped stabilize rumen health and improve consistency. Don also discusses diet structure, carcass results, and practical management insights from his operation. Listen now on all major platforms!"The manure looked almost boiling with acidic bubbles, and the high potato diet stayed on a razor edge until the added support product restored firmer manure and calmer rumen activity."Meet the guest: Don Scarrow is a feedlot owner and operator from Idaho who finishes cattle and sells to a beef packer as part of an all-natural feeding and marketing program. His experience centers on using potato waste as a primary starch source while managing acidosis, bloat, feed efficiency, and carcass grading outcomes. Liked this one? Don’t stop now — Here’s what we think you’ll love!What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:59) Introduction(05:49) Potato feeding(13:05) Acidosis insights(17:35) Product benefits(19:19) Feeding management(23:49) Operational strategies(29:59) Final three questionsThe Beef Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:* Pro Earth Animal Health* Applied Biotechnologies* Lallemand- DietForge- dsm-firmenich- Virbac𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺.Website: The Beef Podcast ShowInstagram: The Beef Podcast ShowLinkedIn: The Beef Podcast Show