EmpowerU Podcast - Season 3, Episode 8: "It’s An Addiction… Featuring Chad Walker"
Release Date: January 3, 2025
Introduction
In the eighth episode of EmpowerU's third season, hosts Weston Hendricks, Augustus Sexton, and Quinn Hartley welcome Chad Walker, a notable figure in the sheep and goat livestock industry. Chad shares his extensive experience, personal challenges, and insights into building a successful livestock operation, making this episode a must-listen for anyone involved in or aspiring to enter the livestock sector.
Chad Walker’s Journey and Overcoming Adversity
Chad Walker begins by recounting his upbringing in Eastland, Texas, where he developed a passion for livestock through showing lambs, goats, and pigs. Influenced by his brother Mark Walker, owner of Four You To Win Supplements, Chad gained early exposure to the livestock industry, honing his skills in breeding and showing animals.
A significant turning point in Chad's life was his battle with lymphoma cancer during his senior year of high school. This challenging experience profoundly altered his perspective on life and work.
Notable Quote:
Chad Walker at [07:12]: “Life in general... just things don't matter as much... It changed my outlook on life and my positivity on pretty much every situation. 100%.”
This encounter with cancer taught Chad the importance of resilience and maintaining a positive attitude, shaping his approach to both personal and professional endeavors.
Building a Successful Livestock Operation
Chad delves into the factors that contributed to the growth of his livestock operation. He emphasizes persistence, focus, and a strong work ethic as crucial elements for success.
Notable Quote:
Chad Walker at [08:28]: “Persistency, time, focus, drive, plenty of endurance... you just gotta keep going and keep working at it.”
Starting modestly by assisting families with livestock, Chad's dedication led to incremental growth, culminating in significant achievements such as reserve placements at state fairs and expanding his operation to a national level. His commitment to quality and consistent improvement has earned him a reputable standing in the industry.
Trends and Challenges in Sheep and Goat Breeding
Chad provides critical insights into the current trends and challenges within the sheep and goat breeding sectors. He expresses concern over the overemphasis on aesthetic traits and genetic manipulation through artificial insemination (AI), which he believes compromises the functional quality of the animals.
Notable Quote:
Chad Walker at [17:51]: “AI deal now I think that it's messed up a lot of genetics as far as the overall lamb industry...”
Chad advocates for prioritizing brood quality and physical fitness over fleeting market preferences, arguing that sustainable breeding practices should focus on the animals' health and functionality rather than solely on appearance.
Impact of Show Practices and Judges on Livestock Breeding
The discussion shifts to how show practices, including the use of show lines and judges' preferences, influence breeding decisions. Chad criticizes the aggressive marketing of show lines, which can lead to undesirable breeding behaviors and negatively impact the industry's reputation.
Notable Quote:
Chad Walker at [23:12]: “What the judge wants... it changed the whole industry within about five years.”
He highlights that while show practices can enhance livestock visibility, they often set unrealistic standards that do not align with sustainable and functional breeding practices.
Mentorship and Learning in the Livestock Industry
Chad emphasizes the importance of mentorship and continuous learning in his professional growth. He credits mentors like Brandon Horn and Glenn Martin for their significant impact on his career, advocating for young breeders to seek hands-on experience by working alongside seasoned professionals.
Notable Quote:
Chad Walker at [25:02]: “Just go get in the pickup with Brandon Horn or Glenn or whoever... they'll help you learn.”
Chad believes that networking and learning from industry veterans are pivotal steps for success and personal development within the livestock community.
Advice for the Next Generation: Focus and Avoiding Distractions
Addressing younger listeners, Chad offers valuable advice on maintaining focus amidst numerous distractions. He stresses the importance of dedication, prioritizing long-term goals over short-term pleasures, and staying true to one's path.
Notable Quote:
Chad Walker at [46:51]: “You can't get distracted... be more real about it.”
Chad encourages the next generation to adopt a disciplined approach, emphasizing that success requires steadfast commitment and the ability to resist external distractions.
Show Day Management: Feeding and Exercising Livestock
Chad shares his practical strategies for managing livestock on show days, focusing on feeding and exercising practices that ensure animal health and performance.
Notable Quotes:
- At [34:42], Chad discusses feed quality: “If you just go in there with your normal feed and your water, you're going to do better than most of them.”
- At [39:36], regarding exercise routines: “...kind of your daily exercising but at the same time...”
He advocates for a balanced approach that maintains animal health without over-reliance on supplements, emphasizing the importance of consistent, moderate exercise and high-quality feed in preparing livestock for shows.
Philosophy of Empowerment and Continuous Improvement
Chad concludes the episode by sharing his personal philosophy centered on continuous improvement and community support. He believes in striving to be better every day, helping others, and fostering a positive cycle of giving and receiving within the livestock community.
Notable Quote:
Chad Walker at [49:08]: “If you're just good people in general, then good things come.”
He underscores the importance of integrity, trust in the process, and staying focused on personal and professional growth as keys to sustained success.
Closing Insights and Inspirational Verse
The episode wraps up with an inspirational verse from Matthew 5:15, resonating with Chad's belief in being a source of light and positivity within the industry.
Notable Quote:
Quinn Hartley at [50:07]: “Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand and it gives light to everyone in the house.”
Chad relates this verse to his discussions, affirming the importance of being a positive influence and maintaining integrity in all endeavors.
Conclusion
Chad Walker's episode on EmpowerU offers a comprehensive look into the traits, challenges, and philosophies that underpin a successful livestock operation. His candid discussions about overcoming personal adversity, the importance of mentorship, and steadfast focus provide invaluable lessons for aspiring leaders in the livestock industry. The episode concludes with Chad's reaffirmation of his commitment to empowerment, community support, and continuous improvement, inspiring listeners to apply these principles in their own lives and careers.
Key Takeaways:
- Resilience and Positive Outlook: Overcoming personal challenges can lead to a stronger, more positive approach to life and work.
- Persistence and Focus: Consistent effort, dedication, and a clear focus are essential for building a successful livestock operation.
- Functional Breeding Practices: Prioritizing brood quality and physical fitness over aesthetic trends ensures sustainable and healthy livestock.
- Importance of Mentorship: Learning from experienced professionals is crucial for personal and professional growth in the livestock industry.
- Discipline and Avoiding Distractions: Maintaining focus on long-term goals and resisting short-term distractions are vital for success.
- Balanced Show Day Management: Effective feeding and exercising practices contribute significantly to livestock performance and health.
- Continuous Improvement and Community Support: Striving to be better every day and supporting others fosters a positive and successful community.
This detailed summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting Chad Walker's insights and experiences while providing actionable advice for listeners interested in the livestock industry.