Podcast
Angus Underground
Hosted by David Brown · EN
Featuring insightful opinions, the latest news from around the Angus cattle world and conversations with industry leaders, newsmakers and breeders – from the well-known to the not so well-known. Keep it Underground with your host, David Brown.
122episodes
Episodes
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NWSS 2025 - Part 1
Feb 7, 202501:18:45Tap to summarizeThis conversation features a series of interviews conducted at the National Western Stock Show, highlighting the importance of livestock education, networking, and the evolving landscape of beef genetics. The guests discuss their experiences in the industry, the role of podcasts in educating young producers, and the significance of events like the National Western for building relationships and sharing knowledge. The conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities within the Angus breeding community, as well as the importance of balancing various genetic traits to meet market demands. This conversation explores the dynamics of marital communication and work-life balance for couples in the cattle industry, the significance of events like the National Western, and the challenges and innovations in cattle production. The speakers share personal experiences, insights on managing stress in high-pressure situations, and the importance of community and relationships in the livestock business. Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.
Transcribe →Industry Icon - Kelly Schaff
Jan 31, 202501:40:19Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Angus Underground, hosts David Brown and Seana discuss their experiences at the 2025 National Western Stock Show, emphasizing the importance of networking in the cattle industry. They reflect on memorable moments from past shows, including the evolution of the cattle facilities and the significance of quality breeding practices. The conversation transitions into a deep dive into the art and science of cattle breeding, highlighting the role of embryo transfer in enhancing breeding programs. The episode features insights from renowned breeder Kelly Schaff, Schaff Angus Valley, Saint Anthony, ND, who shares his expertise on cow families, selection criteria, and the impact of technology in modern cattle breeding. In this conversation, Kelly discusses the evolution of the Schaff Angus Valley cattle breeding operation, emphasizing the importance of embryo transfer and IVF in enhancing herd quality. He highlights the significance of ranch tours for customer engagement and the value of sharing knowledge with clients. Kelly reflects on his definition of success, which includes profitability and customer satisfaction, and offers advice for young breeders to focus on quality genetics. He also addresses the challenges of managing expectations and the pressures of maintaining a successful breeding program while balancing personal life and work commitments. In this conversation, we explore the intricacies of cattle breeding, focusing on time management, the future of the seed stock industry, emerging technologies, and the challenges faced in advancing breeding practices. The discussion also highlights the importance of legacy, personal insights, and community engagement through upcoming sales, culminating in a concise elevator pitch that encapsulates the unique aspects of the SAV breeding program. For more information on our episode sponsor, Rousey Angus, please visit Rouseysimangus.com. To learn more about Schaff Angus Valley, please visit schaffangusvalley.com. To learn more about advertising with Angus Underground Podcast, please email AngusUnderground@yahoo.com. Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.
Transcribe →Master Breeder: Mohnen Angus
Jan 17, 202501:12:29Tap to summarizeThe conversation explores the journey of the Mohnen family in the cattle business, focusing on their challenges, successes, and the importance of family and mentorship in building a legacy. Steve and Josh Mohnen share insights on the evolution of Mohnen Angus, the significance of functional cattle, and the future of the seed stock industry amidst changing demands and challenges. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of running a family business, particularly in the ranching industry. They discuss the challenges of balancing management and marketing, the importance of staying inspired amidst the demands of calving and crop management, and the revolutionary changes they've made in their practices. The conversation also touches on the legacy they wish to leave behind, advice for the next generation, and personal insights that reveal their character beyond the business. Finally, they highlight their upcoming cattle sale, showcasing their offerings and the hard work that goes into their operation. To learn more about today's episode sponsors, please visit: MontanaRanchAngus.com RouseySimAngus.com InsureMyBull.com Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.
Transcribe →There's No Place Like National Western Stock Show
Jan 3, 202501:00:14Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Angus Underground, host David Brown reflects on New Year's resolutions, emphasizing personal growth and business development. The conversation transitions to the significance of the National Western Stock Show, highlighting its role in agriculture and community engagement. Jennifer Boca, Senior Director of Livestock Operations, discusses her responsibilities and the importance of maintaining relevance in agriculture, especially in urban settings. The episode concludes with insights into the growth of stock show entries and an overview of the upcoming Foundation Angus Sale. This conversation covers various aspects of the upcoming Angus Sale at the National Western Stock Show, including the excitement surrounding the event, the community engagement through fundraising efforts, and the introduction of the Maternal Merit Sale. The discussion also highlights an educational program aimed at enhancing knowledge in cattle breeding and concludes with a recap of a successful benefit auction for Hurricane Helene victims. For more information on our episode sponsor, Montana Ranch, please visit MontanaRanchAngus.com. To learn more about advertising with Angus Underground Podcast, please email AngusUnderground@yahoo.com. Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.
Transcribe →Rediscovering Our Purpose
Dec 20, 202400:57:31Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Angus Underground, host David and Seana Brown reflect on their hiatus, the reasons behind it, and the renewed focus of the podcast. They discuss the optimism in the Angus business following recent events, community engagement through charity efforts, and share personal Christmas memories. The episode features a guest, Tammy Bartholomew, who discusses her background in agriculture, her work in youth education, and the importance of creating a culture of excellence in the agricultural workforce. The conversation explores the generational gaps in leadership and work ethic, particularly in the agricultural sector. It discusses the need for mentorship and hands-on learning experiences to prepare the next generation for careers in agriculture. The impact of instant gratification on youth engagement and the importance of viewing the agricultural industry as a complete system are also highlighted. The discussion emphasizes the role of education and mentorship in fostering a strong work ethic and leadership skills among young people. To learn more about Tammy's work, go to ShowMeAg.org. Thank you to the sponsor of this episode, InsureMyBull.com For more information on Montana Ranch and The Angus Underground, please visit MontanaRanchAngus.com. Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.
Transcribe →Help Us, Help Them: A Community Rallies After Hurricane Helene
Oct 30, 202400:42:55Tap to summarizeHurricane Helene struck the Southern and Mid-Atlantic agricultural regions hard, leaving billions in damages. In response, Elizabeth Marshall of Glenmary Farms launched the Help Us, Help Them benefit auction on SaleRing.live to rally support for those impacted. In this episode, David talks with Elizabeth, volunteer Bethany Daigle, and Chris Mackey from the TN Ag Extension Service about how this auction can bring real relief to devastated farming communities.Auction Details:Date: Monday, November 4thBidding: Opens at 7 AM ET; extended bidding begins at 7 PM ETFunds Distribution: 100% of proceeds go directly to the Virginia Cattlemen's Foundation, Farm and Forest Families of Tennessee Fund, South Carolina Cattlemen's Foundation, North Carolina Cattlemen’s Association, and Georgia Cattlemen's FoundationJoin us to support those hardest hit by bidding on unique items, with all proceeds directly aiding the agricultural community’s recovery.Mentioned in this Episode:SaleRing.liveMontanaRanchAngus.comFacebook @AngusUndergroundInstagram @AngusUndergroundContact AngusUnderground@Yahoo.com or call (406) 210-1366 if you are interested in becoming a sponsor for Angus Underground.Elizabeth MarshallGlenmary FarmBethany Daigle, Active Community Member/VolunteerChris Mackey, TN Ag Extension Servicecmackey@utk.eduQuotes:“I had it on my heart to try to do something. … I felt like, given my position with SaleRing.live, there was a tool in my toolbox to help these people.” — Elizabeth [4:16]“It’s easy to look at something that’s miles and miles away and turn your head to it and think that it’s never going to impact you, and you may be the person at some point that needs that kind of help and outreach.” — David [7:13]“It’s a really humbling experience to see your town turn into ground zero.” — Bethany [15:00]“The one good thing about America is we are a society that takes care of our own.” — David [16:40]“Honestly, about 2% of the world is bad. The other 98% is really awesome.” — Chris [29:40] Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.
Transcribe →Listener Q&A
Oct 18, 202400:57:29Tap to summarizeThe show kicks off with a heartfelt discussion about the devastating storms that recently hit the Southeast and East, sharing their concerns for friends, colleagues, and listeners. They also highlight the upcoming Help Us Help Them benefit sale on SaleRing.live, Monday, November 4th at 7 p.m. EST, aimed at supporting those affected. From there, the team discusses the pros and cons of bull test stations before answering listener questions about everything from optimizing embryo production to finding the right balance between maternal and terminal traits in breeding programs.Mentioned in this Episode:MontanaRanchAngus.comBucksnortRanch.orgSaleRing.liveFacebook @AngusUndergroundInstagram @AngusUndergroundContact AngusUnderground@Yahoo.com or call (406) 210-1366 if you are interested in becoming a sponsor for Angus Underground.Quotes:“Do not expect them to sell them for you, because that’s not what’s going to happen.” [26:21]“I think the heart, the heart of a bull test station… There’s no more appropriate time for that in this breed than right now. We need to be verifying cattle.” [28:04]“There is a difference. Do your research, because not every test station is created equal. Ultimately, as a breeder, you have to analyze where you are and where you want to go.” [31:17]“As long as that cow’s having a calf, sometimes you can get along pretty good.” [47:16]“Balance is what keeps people in business.” [52:28]“Raise some good cattle that don’t cause people problems, and that’s all the way from conception until it’s eaten on a plate." [52:28] Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.
Transcribe →Bull Development & Maintenance Strategies
Oct 4, 202401:12:07Tap to summarizeDavid is joined by returning guest Josh Stroh, a beef nutritionist from Hubbard Feeds. Josh talks about the critical aspects of bull development, from feeding protocols to achieving long-term herd success. Josh shares some great tips for maintaining gut health, optimizing feed intake, and managing bulls to ensure they're in peak condition for breeding. He also discusses how to avoid overfeeding, the importance of consistency in feeding schedules, and strategies for improving skeletal and muscle development.Mentioned in this Episode:Hubbard FeedsBlueprintAnimalNutrition.comCreekInsure.comMontanaRanchAngus.comBucksnortRanch.orgSaleRing.liveFacebook @AngusUndergroundInstagram @AngusUndergroundContact AngusUnderground@Yahoo.com or call (406) 210-1366 if you are interested in becoming a sponsor for Angus Underground.Quotes:“You want bulls that are muscular and masculine, not couch potatoes.” — David [10:07]“You’ve got to find that happy medium — get the right development and gain without making them too fat.” — David [10:23]“Bulls are athletes. We need to treat them like young men in football practice.” — Josh [11:32]“Consistency is key. Slow and steady wins the race.” — Josh [21:03]“Attention to detail is everything in this business.” — David [21:38]“Cattle are habitual. They have this internal clock, and consistency in feeding is everything.” — David [23:00] Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.
Transcribe →Preconditioning and Weaning
Sep 20, 202401:14:16Tap to summarizeIn this episode, David, Joe, and Vince are joined by special guest Mark Nold from Gettysburg, South Dakota. Mark shares insights from his work with the family operation of Nold Family Angus and Nold Animal Supply, focusing on the critical topic of pre-conditioning and weaning calves. They chat with Mark about vaccination protocols, parasite control, and how to set calves up for success during the stressful weaning process. Mark offers his recommendations on vaccination timing, nutritional support, and practical management strategies to minimize stress on herds and boost immune health.Mentioned in this Episode:Nold Family AngusNold Animal SupplyVitalixFaithAngusFarms.comUpchurchbrothers.comMontanaRanchAngus.comBucksnortRanch.orgSaleRing.liveBruinRanch.comShadyBrookAngusFarm.comFacebook @AngusUndergroundInstagram @AngusUndergroundContact AngusUnderground@Yahoo.com or call (406) 210-1366 if you are interested in becoming a sponsor for Angus Underground.Quotes:“Mother Nature always wins.” — Mark [28:40]“Number one, develop a relationship with your local vet. And number two, when you have a problem, get them involved and let them use their mind to help you solve that problem and set up the vaccine protocol that’s more geared towards their circumstances.” [34:04]“I’m always on the war against the parasite.” — Mark [1:04:09] Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.
Transcribe →Donor Selection
Sep 6, 202401:18:51Tap to summarizeJoe, Korbin, and Vince sit down to chat about the recent calving season, including the impact of drought on cattle operations and the challenges of maintaining healthy herds during tough conditions. They share insights into managing feed shortages, early calving issues, and the importance of mental health during these stressful times. The guys then focus on the topic of what makes a cow a donor and the careful considerations involved in choosing the right animals for breeding. They highlight what they’ve learned about managing genetics, selecting bulls, and navigating the complexities of embryo transfer programs.Mentioned in this Episode:MontanaRanchAngus.comCreekInsure.comSaleRing.liveBruinRanch.comShadyBrookAngusFarm.comFacebook @AngusUndergroundInstagram @AngusUndergroundContact AngusUnderground@Yahoo.com or call (406) 210-1366 if you are interested in becoming a sponsor for Angus Underground.Quotes:“Even if it crashes and burns now, it was still worth it. And that’s just saying, you know, even if I go have a bad sale next year, it will still be worth it.” [1:39]“Everybody wants to know some secret sauce to these marketing keys about getting people there. And what I’ve found is if you’re able to show your passion with people, the people will find you who think like you, and they’ll show up.” [2:12]“I’m hopeful that a listener will hear this, and they will say, ‘You know what? Joe’s gone through that, and he’s had to sort through it, or he’s had friends go through it. And I’m not alone, because we don’t talk about mental health nearly enough in this ag business.” [11:57]“I’ll be the first one to tell you guys that I struggle with it every day. It’s one of those things that when you’re running cows and things aren’t going well, whenever it gets dry and I don’t have any grass and I don’t have any way to get any feed, and I don’t have hay, it gets tough. I just want everyone else to realize that they’re not alone in that. I’m sharing those same problems you are having.” [12:42]“I think a lot of times, if you had that mindset instead of, ‘Boy, how can I make her better?’ It’s more like, ‘How can I not screw this thing up? How can I make another one just like her?’” [43:08] Learn more about our sponsor, Montana Ranch, by visiting MontanaRanchAngus.com.
Transcribe →